Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 14, 1947: "In Memory Of Mr. Russell David Lindsey---On Sunday afternoon, April 27, 1947, David Russell Lindsey, aged 81, was called away to live with the angels in Heaven. He leaves to mourn his departure three daughters, four sons and two step-daughters: Mrs. Erskine Hensley of Evensville, Mrs. H.C. McLemore of Chattanooga, Mrs. Melton Gourley of Philadelphia; Isaac Lindsey of Loudon, Frank of Maryville, Erskel of [New York], Edd of Vonore, Mrs. M.C. Hitson of Maryville and Mrs. Charley Kirkland of Athens. Mr. Lindsey was confined to a wheel chair for several years and endured much pain. It was hard to see our friend depart, but we know that now he is at rest and is waiting for the Resurrection when Christ shall come to gather the elect to live with Him forever. Being a neighbor to him for some time, we enjoyed every minute that was spent in his home. He was always ready to bid you a hearty welcome with a friendly smile. But no more on earth will we hear his friendly voice, nor see those smiles that he wore. We have suffered a great loss, but Heaven has made a gain eternal. Funeral services were conducted in the home by Rev. I.H. White. Pallbearers were his grandsons; flower girls were his granddaughters. He was laid to rest in the Moser Cemetery, beneath a mound of lovely flowers. May God's richest blessings abide with the family." ----Faye White. __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 15, 1948: "John R. Stamey Dies At Age Of 90 Years---John R. Stamey, aged 90 years, died at his home near Vonore on Sept. 9. Mr. Stamey was a descendant of a pioneer family and was well known over the county. His passing brings grief to the hearts of many friends. Funeral services were held on Sept. 11 at Toqua Presbyterian Church, Rev. McCoy Franklin and Rev. Conward Cline officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. He is survived by the following children: Carl Stamey of Oklahoma, Rush, Watt and George of Akron, Ohio; Bob Stamey and Mrs. Tom Millsaps, of Vonore, and Mrs. Lenoir J. Wade of Madisonville." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 1, 1928: "Ball Play News---Manuel Pressley, who was working on the new road on Ball Play Creek, got blown up by a dynamite last week. They rushed him to Loudon to Dr. Joe Harrison for an operation. His condition is serious, but we are praying that the Lord will spare him if it is His will." "News From Rafter---We were very sorry to hear of the accident to Manuel Pressley. We extend sympathy to the bereaved." "Victim Of Explosion Dies In Loudon---Manuel Pressley, 30 years old, died at the Loudon Sanitarium Saturday morning at 7 o'clock, where he had been taken following an explosion of dynamite Thursday at noon on the Ball Play Road, where Pressley, together with a number of men was working. The men had been placing dynamite in rock, where they were excavating for the new road. Six shots had been placed in the rock and five of them had exploded when Pressley went to see about the other shot. He started to light the dynamite when it exploded, the bits of rock striking him in the head. His skull was fractured and he received other injuries. Immediately after the accident, he was taken to his home, near Ball Play, where an effort to get a physician was made. Dr. Shearer, of Tellico Plains started to Ball Play, but on account of the condition of the roads, he could not get there, so the injured man was brought by way of Madisonville to the Harrison Sanitarium at Loudon. Mr. Pressley leaves a widow and five children. Funeral services were held at Ball Play Sunday." _______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 8, 1928: "Ball Play News---We were sure sorry to give up our friend and neighbor, Manuel Presley, who got blowed up by dynamite on the road. It seems that a man in his shape, with his skull busted, his face cut and the bones broken, would have been out of his head, but he was in his right mind until he died, but we know God was keeping him that way for some purpose, we don't know what. He leaves a wife and five children, but the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 16, 1926: "Thomas C. Wall---A feeling of sadness fell over our city when the news was heralded last Wednesday afternoon that Thomas C. Wall was dead. Mr. Wall had been confined to his home for several weeks with a complication of diseases, but a few days before the end came he was thought to be improving. Thomas C. Wall was born in Graham County, N.C., April 1, 1877, and departed this life at his home at Madisonville, Tenn., June 9, 1926, being 49 years, 3 months and 13 days old. He was married to Miss Ida Cureton, of Newport, Tenn., Dec. 22, 1914. He leaves to mourn his death a mother, wife and daughter, two brothers and three sisters. He professed faith in Christ and united with the Baptist Church of Madisonville some ten years ago under the pastorate of Bro. Miles, and lived a consecrated Christian life to the end of his earthly pilgrimage. He belonged to the order of Free and Accepted Masons and was a member of the Amra Grotto. He has been a resident of Madisonville for the past 18 years and was serving his third term as mayor of the town. Being a member of the civic club, he was deeply interested in the welfare of the town. Funeral services were conducted Friday morning at 10 o'clock from the Baptist Church in this city by Dr. J.E. Lowry, of Hiwassee College, after which his remains were laid to rest in the city cemetery. The wife, daughter and other relatives have the sympathy of all in their bereavement." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, January 17, 1957: "Mrs. Dossie Jenkins Steele, 79, died Tuesday night at her home in Madisonville. Survivors include her husband, Meredith Steele; five sons, W.L. and Frank Steele, of Maryville, John of Knoxville, Verbal and Elmer, of Madisonville; four daughters, Mrs. Earl Best of Gladewater, Tex., Mrs. Elbert Garren of Athens, Mrs. Grady Sneed of Greenback and Mrs. Ernie Hampton of Madisonville; 46 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, three brothers and three sisters. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at Hopewell Baptist Church. Burial was in the Union Grove Cemetery, Blount County." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, May 9, 1957: "Mrs. Gunter Dies At Sweetwater Hospital---Mrs. Floyd Gunter, 60, of Sweetwater died Saturday afternoon at Sweetwater Hospital. Survivors include her husband; six brothers, George and Robert Cansler of Sweetwater, Rev. John Cansler of Paintsville, Ky., Ike of Loudon, Ben and Luther of Cleveland, and a sister, Mrs. Leon Cagle, of Fort Wayne, Ind. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the First Baptist Church of Sweetwater, Rev. D.E. Parsons and Dr. D.R. Greenhoe officiating. Burial was in West View Cemetery." _________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 27, 1933: "Madisonville Route Two---Mrs. Nannie Martin and other relatives are mourning the death of Mr. Raymond Wade of Athens, who was instantly killed in a car wreck recently. We understand that he was converted one week before his death. We join the many friends in offering sympathy to the bereaved ones." ----Nellie C. Stakely. ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, August 25, 1960: "Miss Mamye McGhee, Genealogist, Dies---Miss Mamye Sue McGhee, of Rt. 1, Vonore, a member of a long-illustrious East Tennessee family, died Sunday night at Serene Manor Hospital, Knoxville. She was 84. Miss McGhee was a descendant of the first white settlers to make their home in the present Monroe County after the fall of Fort Loudoun. She had been in St. Mary's Hospital and then Serene Manor since November. She was the last survivor of the family of John B. and Adeline Harrison McGhee. Miss McGhee owned and lived her entire life on the family McGhee Farm on which her father was born and on which her grandfather spent most of his life. The 500 acre tract is in Toqua community. Miss McGhee and a niece, Miss Ailene Howard, lived together. The long-time Monroe Countian made a hobby of genealogy and had given much assistance to historians writing about early Tennessee times and families. She was a direct descendant of Col. David Henley, for whom Henley Street and Henley Bridge were named. Col. Charles M. McGhee, an early Knoxville capitalist who financed Lawson McGhee Library, was her great uncle. One great grandfather owned 15,000 acres in what are now East Tennessee and North Carolina. Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Toqua Presbyterian Church, Rt. 1, Vonore. Burial was in the McGhee Farm family cemetery." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 8, 1960: "Leaves From The Old Scrapbook---Although our dear, sweet, friend, Mamie Sue McGhee, had been in ill health since last November, to learn of her death which occurred at a Knoxville hospital Aug. 21, came as a great shock. Mamie Sue's home was in the Toqua Community not far from the little city of Vonore, Tenn. It was this scribe's privilege to have close acquaintanceship with Mamie Sue, a woman gentle, gracious and kind, with a heart of gold, dispensing with love, her marvelous gifts of understanding and sympathy. From a rare intelligence she gave generously and wisely her loving counsel. To the poor and needy she gave substantially. She will be so greatly missed. Mamie Sue McGhee's carefree, happy girlhood days were spent on the farmlands once owned by her great grandfather, pioneer John McGhee, the first white settler to build a home in "Overhill town sites." This old home was known as the "Pioneer House," built in 1821. It was the oldest home in Monroe County until it burned down the summer of 1956, and was the home of Bob and Rachel Carson. Pioneer John McGhee acquired some 15,000 acres of land on both sides of the Little Tennessee River extending beyond the North Carolina line on down to Morganton, Tennessee. After the death of Mamie Sue's father, John McGhee II, she fell heir to some 500 acres of rich river bottom land and to the sweet old home where she lived at the time of her death. Mamie Sue was known and respected for her keen insight in the management of her farm, even with dependable renters, she was the “over-seer” and nothing pleased her more than to see the rich soil turn its face to the sun. I don't suppose there was a farmer in Monroe County who raised finger tobacco! And when the "golden leaves" were ready for market, Mamie Sue went right along to watch the sale of her tobacco which usually brought "top-notch" prices. Come this fall, when great truck loads of tobacco are being hauled to market, I'm sure this pretty, dark-haired and soft brown-eyed lady of culture and dignity will be so greatly missed by the tobacco auctioneers! Mamie Sue loved animals. If some baby lamb or little pig needed special attention, she would gather them up in her arms and bring them into her back yard and pretty soon they were growing strong and healthy. I can think of no one so well versed in our county's early history as she (perhaps the late Prof. H.L. Callahan). I know that if I was ever in doubt of a certain date or fact, she could always set me right. Mamie Sue possessed a keen sense of humor. She enjoyed many laughs over some incident that was told to her of the Civil War period. Her happy temperament and good humor coupled with a special talent for telling a good story made her a host of friends. She was devoted to her family, her nieces and nephews, and they, in return, gave to their "Aunt Jack" (as she was affection ally called) so much love. Irene Ray, Boss (Ailene), Howard, Barney and Charlie Ray simply adored their good, kind aunt who was always so interested in their welfare. Boss, I am glad you plan to remain at the old home. I don't suppose Barney Ray (who lives in Knoxville) ever missed a week visiting "Aunt Jack" and seeing that everything was alright "down on the farm." Mamie Sue loved her church, the beautiful and quaint little Presbyterian church located in the Toqua Community of which she was a long-time member, and attended regularly until the last few years. It was Oliver Wendell Holmes, I believe, who wrote "A good woman is said to resemble a Cremona fiddle, age but increases its worth and sweetens its tone." In the last few weeks I have become one friend poorer, but I am richer for having known dear Mamie Sue McGhee." ------Bess Stickley Hines. ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, March 28, 1957: "Funeral Services For Mrs. Ida C. Wall To Be Held Here Friday---Funeral servives for Mrs. Ida C. Wall, 70, former prominent businesswoman of Madisonville, will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at First Baptist Church, with Rev. E. Warren Rust of Knoxville and Rev. W.E. Keown, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in City Cemetery. Mrs. Wall, widow of the late T.C. Wall of Madisonville, died early Tuesday at St. Mary's Hospital, Knoxville, where she had been a patient for some time. She was secretary to the Clerk and Master of Monroe County for some 10 years, was at one time connected with the Welfare Department, and for five years was clerk of the local Selective Service Board. In 1955 she retired, due to ill health, and since had lived with her daughter, Mrs. J. Homer Chambers, in Knoxville. Survivors include the daughter, Mrs. Chambers; a sister, Mrs. Cora Pendergast of Galesburg, Ill.; a brother, Ed Cureton of Newport, and four grandchildren." ____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 18, 1958: "Meredith F. Steele Dies At Age Of 86---Meredith Frank Steele, 86, died Tuesday afternoon at the home of his son, V.R. Steele, in the McGhee community. He is survived by five sons, Labe and Frank Steele, of Maryville, John of Knoxville, Verbal and Elmer, of Hopewell Springs; four daughters, Mrs. Earl Best of Gladewater, Tex., Mrs. Grady Sneed of Greenback, Mrs. Elbert Garren of Athens, and Mrs. Ernie Hampton of Madisonville; 46 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Funeral services and burial are taking place this (Thursday) afternoon at the Union Grove Baptist Church in Blount County." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 11, 1929: "Tellico Plains Route One---A gloom of sadness was cast over this community Wednesday when the remains of Mr. Fred Kirkland was brought to the home of his father from Middlesboro, Ky., where he died. Unicoi Church has lost another faithful member, but our loss is Heaven's eternal gain. His remains were laid to rest in Tellico Plains Cemetery Thursday, funeral services being conducted by Rev. Bud Hamilton. May God's richest blessings rest upon the bereaved family. Fred leaves a host of relatives and friends to mourn his departure. To know Fred was to love him." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, January 3, 1952: "Mrs. Julia Freeman, 75, of Tellico Plains Star Route, died Dec. 24 at her home. Funeral services and burial were at the Holly Springs Baptist Church." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, June 19, 1952: "Mount Vernon---Mr. & Mrs. Jake Mullins and the writer attended the funeral of Wallace Smith at Notchey Creek last Thursday. Revs. Robert Maxwell and Chester Millsaps officiated. Singing by the Bethlehem Choir, followed by interment in the McClellan Cemetery. Besides his widow, Mr. Smith leaves one son, Sanford; a foster daughter, Mrs. Wilson, of Madisonville; sister, Mrs. Rosa Atkins; and several grandchildren, nieces and nephews." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, April 19, 1939: "Three Point News---We were all sorry to learn of the death of Mrs. Polly Arp, wife of Bud Arp, on Ballplay. Before her marriage, she was a Presley. She was a fine woman." ---J.R. Hunt. "Ballplay---The death angel has visited in the home of B.M. Arp and took his loving wife, Pollie. She was a dear wife, mother and friend." "In Memory Of Mrs. Polly Arp---Mrs. Polly Arp was born Dec. 26, 1881, and departed this life April 13, 1939, being 63 years, three months and twenty-one days of age at the time of her passing. She united with the Friends church at the early age of fourteen years, and thereafter lived a devoted Christian life. She had been in poor health for several years, but bore it patiently, and her last hours seemed to be her happiest ones. She told her loved ones that she was going to a happy home. Weep not, dear children, the Lord had a better place for Mother where suffering and pain and sorrow never come. Prepare to meet Mother there some day. All those who have loved ones know it is hard to give them up; but the Lord knows best. She was a loving mother and a faithful wife, and was kind and good to all. She was a loving, kind neighbor and welcomed all into her home with a smile. She will be greatly missed throughout the community. She leaves to mourn her loss a husband and four children; Mrs. Rose Moore, of Belltown; Washie, of Maryville; Ulys and Bennie, who live near home. Also there was a son who preceded her to the grave some years ago. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Josie Best of Belltown, and Ida, of Ohio; two brothers, Abe Presley of Vonore and Nath Presley of Kentucky; also a host of other relatives and many friends. Her remains were laid to rest in the Fain's Chapel Cemetery, beside those of her son. Flower girls were Mable Moore and sister, Beatrice Best, Zelma Arp, Mrs. Cora Arp and Mrs. Olin Arp. Pallbearers were Verlin Hensley, Reece Thomas and Dannie Eidson. The funeral service was conducted by Rev. Edward Ransome. The Payne Quartet sang. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the heartbroken family." ----A Friend. ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, November 6, 1946: "In Memory Of Fate Carroll, Aged 82 Years---Absalom Lafayette Carroll, 82, died at his home on Oct. 15, 1946, after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife, Alice Hall Carroll; five sons, Will Carroll of Wilsall, Mont.; Winslow of Madisonville Route 3, Lon and Carl of Sweetwater Route 1, and Arzo of Englewood; one daughter, Mrs. Louella Parks of Greenback (another daughter, Mrs. Vina Tallent, passed on several years ago); several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a member of Oak Grove Church near Madisonville, where funeral services were conducted by Rev. Bill Smiley of Sweetwater Route 1 and Rev. Floyd Harrell of Maryville. Burial followed in the church cemetery." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 24, 1948: "In Memory Of Mr. Jake Wiseman---On March 17, 1948, Mr. Jake Wiseman answered the call of death and was taken to a happy home where the Savior had prepared for him a resting place. He was born Sept. 10, 1873, being 75 years of age. He was sick only a short time; all that willing hands and medical aid could do was done, but to no avail---God's will must be done. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Martha Wiseman; two sons, Billy and Sherman Wiseman; one daughter, Mrs. Earnie Atkins, and two little grandchildren. Funeral services were held on March 19 at Oak Grove Church, by Rev. Bill Carter. Flower girls were his nieces; pallbearers were nephews. He was laid to rest in the Oak Grove Cemetery, beneath a mound of beautiful flowers." ---A Daughter. ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, July 13, 1961: "Tellico Plains Man Claimed By Death---Charles Milligan Bell, 65, of Tellico Plains Route 1, died at his home at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday of last week. In addition to his wife, Mrs. Martha White Bell, he is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Alvin Wear of Alcoa, Mrs. G.W. Hunt of Rockford, Ill., and Mrs. Jimmy Small of Niota; six sons, Carl and Drader Bell of Tellico Plains, Clifford, Harold, Beecher and Elmer of Rockford, Ill.; his stepmother, Mrs. Hettie Bell of Tellico; 20 grandchildren, one brother and four sisters. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Poplar Bluff Church, Revs. Kenneth Watson and Beecher Miller officiating. Burial was in Unicoi Cemetery." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 27, 1932: "Tellico Plains Route One---The little son of Chester Freeman was buried at Holly Springs Sunday." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 1, 1933: "Madisonville Route One---Relatives on this route were grieved to learn of the death of Mrs. Joseph Smith, in Athens last weekend. Interment was on Sunday at 2 p.m." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 11, 1934: "Sam Burchfield died at his home at Citico on July 3, 1934, aged 61 years, and was buried July 4th. The funeral was in charge of Biereley Funeral Home." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, December 11, 1935: "William Ballard, a prosperous farmer near Madisonville, died Sunday morning after an illness of several months. He is survived by three daughters, Misses Margaret Sue and Catherine Ballard and Mrs. Reed McSpadden; three sons, William, Herbert and John, all of Madisonville; three brothers, John and Hugh of Sweetwater, and Fred of Chattanooga, and one sister, Mrs. Ed Cleveland. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Baptist Church in this city, conducted by Rev. McCoy Franklin, pastor of the local Presbyterian Church. Burial was in the Sweetwater Cemetery. The family have the sympathy of all in their bereavement." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 24, 1941: "In Memory Of Edd Smith---Edd Smith was born Jan. 7, 1884; died Dec. 9, 1941, making him 57 years of age. He professed faith in Christ in early life and joined Notchey Creek Church, living close to the Lord for some time. Like a lot of others he drifted back; but about two months ago he renewed his covenant and told his friends that he was ready to go when the time came. He leaves a wife, Ethel, and four children: J.W., Billie, George and Janice (one infant daughter preceded him); two brothers, Sherman and Wallace Smith; two sisters, Mrs. John Tallent and Mrs. Jim Atkins; one daughter, Mrs. Nellie Coe, and one little granddaughter; also a host of other relatives and friends to mourn his passing. Funeral services were held at Notchey Creek Church by Revs. Newt Patterson and George G. Watson, and he was buried in the cemetery nearby, the mound all covered in beautiful flowers, tokens of love." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 30, 1942: "Mrs. Dixie Atkins, 54, died at her home near Madisonville, Sunday. Funeral services were held Monday at 2 p.m. at Notchey Creek Church with burial in the church cemetery. Surviving are her husband, Tom Atkins; three sons, Osborne, Austin and Robert Atkins; a daughter, Miss Mae Atkins; three brothers, Frank, Tommy and Elijah Watson; also four grandchildren." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 15, 1944: "Madisonville Route 5---Friends extend sympathy to Mr. & Mrs. Osborne Atkins in the loss of their infant son, who was born March 2 and died March 6." ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, March 8, 1962: "Father Of Local Man Passes in Adamsville---Mr. & Mrs. Howell Pressley have returned from Adamsville, where they were called due to the illness and passing of Mr. Pressley's father, J.B. Pressley. Mr. Pressley, 83, died Friday morning in a Savannah hospital. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church, Adamsville." _________________________________________________________ The Independent Gazette, Thursday, August 31, 1893: "Town Talk---The body of Rev. Joseph Smith, who died in Hill City, reached Sweetwater Friday, and was taken to New Hope for interment." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 25, 1925: "Tellico Plains---I was sad to receive the intelligence, that my old acquaintance and friend, Mr. John Bell, a former restaurant and boarding house keeper, at Tellico Plains, was far gone in that grim and merciless scourge of humanity---tuberculosis or consumption of the lungs." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 16, 1927: "Interesting News On Route Six---James McDaniel, son of Lewis and Josie Gibson McDaniel, was killed by a train, at Little Rock, Arkansas, on Friday, February 4th, 1927. His body was shipped back here for burial, and interment was in Notchey Creek Cemetery on Sabbath afternoon, February 13th, 1927." ---Georgia A. Stakely. _________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 9, 1949: "C.A. Morton, Veteran Plumber, Passes---Charlie A. Morton, for many years a plumber here, died at 5:30 a.m. Monday in a Knoxville hospital, following a lingering illness. Mr. Morton was 68 years of age. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Edna Patterson Morton, a son, Frank Morton of Maryville; two grandsons, Charles Frank and Douglas Morton. Funeral services were held on Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at the Methodist Church, Rev. Creed McCoy of Knoxville and Rec. C.W. Dye, pastor of the church, officiating. Burial was in City Cemetery." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 6, 1951: "E.L. Tuck, 77, died Sept. 2 at his home at Greenback. Funeral and burial were held Tuesday at Hickory Valley Church. He leaves his wife, six sons and three daughters." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 8, 1937: "A.G. McDonald---The subject of this sketch was born May 20, 1856; died Nov. 22, 1937. His homegoing carried a pang to a wide circle of friends in this and surrounding counties. Worn out and weary, bowed down by the weight of years, he heard the call as a summons to rest, and with it the commendation of a faithful life consistently lived. His life having been founded on faith in his Lord and Savior in early manhood, he was a member of Chestua Methodist Church for 65 years, and I think it can be truthfully said that few men served their church more faithfully. In his later years a defective hearing hindered his regular attendance at church services, yet his interest in the on-going of his church never lagged. He was a generous giver. Being in his home while his body lay in state, I watched his friends and neighbors come and go, saw their kindly deeds and heard their words of commendation and praise, which bore evidence that they loved him and would miss him. For thirty-four years he had lived among them. He loved his community and was interested in its advancement. He also was interested in the different improvements in agriculture, and his unselfish spirit made him eager for his followers to find two blades of grass growing where he found only one. His life was exemplary to youth. He was honest and upright in his dealings with his fellowmen. To his loved ones, who survive him, we extend our sympathy, and may each one look beyond the confines of the tomb and hear the voice of their Savior saying, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live." Weep not as those who have no hope."----Mrs. H.D. Reynolds. _______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 10, 1959: "Aged Englewoodite Succumbs Monday; Services Held Friday---John W. Land, 83, died at 9 p.m. Monday at his home in Englewood. Survivors include his wife, Mary Torbett Land; six daughters, Mrs. Frances Kinney of Niota Route 1, Mrs. Maggie Casteel and Mrs. Gussie Moses, both of Englewood Route 1, Mrs. Grace Huskey of Maryville, Mrs. Pearl Graves of Hines, Ore., and Mrs. Ella Banks, Knoxville; four sons, Ross Land of Athens Route 5, Frank of Vern, Ore., Robert of Albuquerque, N.M., and Clarence, Englewood Route 1; 52 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at Englewood Church of God Friday at 2 p.m., followed by burial in Notchey Creek Cemetery." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, August 9, 1951: "Mount Vernon---Funeral services for Mrs. Nell Sharp of Maryville were held at Eleazar Church Sunday afternoon. Burial was in the church cemetery. Mrs. Sharp was reared in this community and before her marriage was Miss Nell Roberts." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 26, 1942: "Mrs. Texie Stephens, 80, widow of the late Rev. N.T. Stephens, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Riley Evans, in Akron, Ohio, Monday. Surviving are three sons, George of Barberton, Ohio; Gib and Ed, of Maryville, and Mrs. Evans. The body arrived here Wednesday at 3 p.m.. Funeral services will be held at Unicoi Baptist Church Thursday, Rev. C.A. Kirkland officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 1, 1935: "Conasauga Valley News---Mrs. Bell Freeman died April 25, 1935, after a long illness. Surviving her is her husband, Chester Freeman and four children. Interment was in the Coppenger Cemetery near Tellico Plains, Friday." "Tellico Plains News---Mrs. Chester Freeman died on April 25. The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. Eddington, and burial was made in the Coppenger graveyard. Biereley Funeral Home in charge." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 17, 1932: "In Loving Memory---Zola Mae Harrill was born June 10, 1912, and departed this life January 18, 1932, being 19 years, 7 months and 8 days old at the time of her death. She leaves to mourn her departure, a little daughter, Mauda Lee; a father, Charley Harrill, of Athens; two brothers, Troy and Bob, and two sisters, Viola and Mrs. Carl E. Kyte, of Knoxville, and many others. Zola took sick Sunday night about 10 o'clock and passed away to the great beyond Monday night at 10 minutes to 11:00 o'clock. She was sick only a short time but she bore it patiently, and all was done for her that loving hands could do, but all was to no avail, God had called for her and she had to go. She was loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed by friends as well as home folks, but we realize that our loss is Heaven's gain. Zola professed faith in Christ at an early age and joined the Christian church at Englewood August 1, 1927, and was a member of that church at the time of her death. She told her grandmother before she died that she was ready to go, and oh! What a blessed thought to know that she is at rest with her blessed Savior. Zola, it was sad to give you up, surely we must say but we are going to meet you again some sweet day. How could we stand by the side of the grave and see the covering over you? Was it not for the comforting thought God gave to all that obey His word which is: "Somewhere the sun is shining; somewhere the song birds dwell; somewhere with Christ she's living; God loves us all as well." A precious one from us has gone; a voice we loved is stilled; there is a vacancy in our home that never can be filled. Funeral services were conducted at the Chestua Methodist Church on Tuesday, January 19, by Rev. Hasten White, assisted by Phoney Brackett, of Etowah. Her remains were laid to rest in the Chestua Cemetery. The floral offerings were not many, but very pretty. The flower girls and pallbearers were her friends. The flower girls were Ida Young, Nellie Isbill and Evelyn Maxwell. The pallbearers were Gurlene Isbill, Pauline Croft, Mattie Maxwell, Jewell Isbill, Madeline Moses and Mary Nell Isbill. She is gone but not forgotten, only fallen asleep in Jesus to await the resurrection morn. We can say to her, "Sleep on dear one and take thy rest, we know you've had a struggle, but victory has been won.' The golden gates swung open, a gentle voice said, "Come," and with a word unspoken she gently entered Home. Safe in the arms of Jesus; safe on his gentle breast; there by His love overshadowed, sweetly dear Zola rests." ---A Friend, Pauline Croft. ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, March 22, 1962: "Bennie Mac (Bud) Arp Sr.---78, of Tellico Plains, passed away at 8:55 p.m. Monday at Oak Ridge Hospital. He was a member of the Farr's Chapel Church. Survivors include his wife, Zelma Lewis Arp; one daughter, Mrs. T.R. Moore, Houston, Tex.; two sons, Ulyess Erskine Arp of Maryville and Bennie Mac Arp Jr., of Oak Ridge; two sisters, Mrs. Sallie Mason of Knoxville and Mrs. Mary Bivens of Lenoir City; a brother, Bert Arp of Madisonville; 18 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Funeral services occurred at 2 p.m. Thursday of last week at the Farr's Chapel Friends Church, with Rev. M.E. Hunt officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery." ____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, October 28, 1954: "William Charles Hicks, 48, of Madisonville Route 2, died Thursday of last week at Sweetwater Hospital. Survivors include his wife and many relatives. Funeral services and burial took place at Hopewell Springs, Saturday.' _____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, June 30, 1955: "Husband And Wife Die Within Two Days Of Each Other---J.D. "Uncle Jodie" Jones, 85, died Friday at Sweetwater Hospital, and his wife, Mrs. Mary Jones, 82, died the following day, Saturday, at the farm home. A double funeral service was held Sunday morning at Holly Springs Baptist Church. Burial was in DeHart Cemetery. Mr. Jones was a retired farmer. He and Mrs. Jones were almost life-long members of the Holly Springs Church. They are survived by four daughters, Mrs. Cora Hamby, Mrs. Ada Tilley, Mrs. Arvie Edwards and Miss Elsie Jones; 18 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 6, 1929: "In Loving Memory Of Mrs. Tye Starritt---Our little town was shocked, and hearts stirred, and eyes made dim, when a telegram reached Vonore Jan. 18, that Mrs. Tye Starritt had died at the home of her brother, Mr. W.P. Dyer, in Valley Mills, Texas. Mrs. Starritt had suffered an attack of influenza shortly before she started on her visit, but at the time of her departure, was thought to be improved and her condition quite safe for traveling, and on Dec. 30th, she and her husband and daughter, Miss Omega, and son, Hoyt, left for a visit with kindred in Texas, where 3 weeks later, death claimed her in the home of her brother in Valley Mills, Texas. Mrs. Starritt was not sick at the time of her death, and had been hearty and jovial on the day she died, until late in the afternoon she was stricken suddenly, presumably with heart failure, and after a few short moments, she laid aside the toils and cares of life, and with a smile, as if kissed by angel lips, she quietly passed through the realms of eternal bliss, where loved ones awaited her coming. From a human viewpoint it was a losing battle, but from a spiritual viewpoint Mrs. Starritt had won her greatest victory---a victory over the grave. The Starritt family had planned to leave Valley Mills on the day of the mother's death for a visit with Mrs. Starritt's aunt, Mrs. Callie Shadden, in Missouri; later returning by way of Richmond, Ind., for a visit with their daughters, Mrs. Oscar Kerr and Mrs. Robert Rollins, in that city. Mrs. Starritt was before her marriage, Miss Lillie Dyer, and was born July 11, 1875 and departed this life Jan. 17, 1929, being 53 years and 6 months of age. She was married to Mr. Tye Starritt Dec. 10, 1893. To this union were born 9 children, all of whom are living. At the early age of 13 years, Mrs. Starritt gave her heart to God, and was baptized, uniting with the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where she remained a faithful member until two years ago she removed her membership to the Vonore Baptist Church where she remained a member until death claimed her. She was also a member of the "Ladies Bible Class," of the Vonore Baptist Sunday School. To this church and Sunday School she was greatly attached and it was always her pleasure to attend. Mrs. Starritt will be greatly missed in the church and in the community, but most of all in the home. There is a vacancy in that home that can never be filled. For no one can fill the place of a mother. Mrs. Starritt was a good neighbor, and no one ever had a better friend. She was always ready to lend a helping hand to her friends and neighbors in time of need, and her death will be felt with a keen sense of regret by all who knew her. For she was liked by everybody and numbered her friends by her acquaintances. But we feel that our own loss is Heaven's gain, for we feel assured that she is now enjoying the beauties of that home not made by hands. Her body was returned to her home near Vonore and funeral and burial took place at the Methodist church Jan. 21. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Porter, pastor of the Baptist church, assisted by Rev. C.A. Kennedy of Madisonville, after which the body was laid to rest in the cemetery nearby. Her grave was covered with beautiful flowers, showing the high esteem in which she was held. She leaves to mourn her death a heart-broken husband, 5 daughters and 4 sons: Mrs. Ethel Isbill and Mrs. Minnie Loveday, of Vonore; Mrs. Lucy Rollins and Mrs. Margaret Kerr, of Richmond, Ind.; Messrs. Frank and Lewis Starritt, of Corbin, Ky.; Miss Omega and Elmer and Hoyt Starritt, who are at home. She also leaves 11 grandchildren, a little granddaughter raised in her home preceded her to the grave a few years ago. She also leaves one brother, Mr. W.P. Dyer, of Valley Mills, Texas, he being the only living member of the Dyer family. She also leaves a host of sorrowing relatives and friends. To the bereaved ones we would say: "Weep not, she is not dead, but sleeping." Her family will miss her presence and her companionship, but her tender, loving influence will last through all their lives, for such an influence lasteth forever, and today she awaits their coming to the Heavenly Home that is made far more attractive by her going. And may each one so live, so that on the morn of the resurrection they can all meet and rejoice around the great white throne of eternal glory. We extend our tenderest sympathy to the broken-hearted family, and may God comfort them in their dark hour of trouble." ----A Friend. __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, October 16, 1940: "In Memory Of Little Kenneth Freeman---The bright winged angel visited the home of Mr. & Mrs. Joe E. Freeman on Sept. 30, 1940, and claimed their son, Kenneth. He was born Jan. 14, 1937, being three years, eight months and 16 days old. Surviving are his parents, Mr. & Mrs. Joe E. Freeman; his grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. A.R. Stakely and Mr. & Mrs. George Freeman of Tellico Plains; also his great-grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. H.L. Toomey, and several aunts and uncles. Kenneth was a bright and happy child when he was well. He would often sing a song that his mother taught him, "Farther Along." It was his favorite. On the Sunday night before he died on Monday evening, he talked of seeing "a light up there with no shade trees around it." A little while before he died he said he was tired and sleepy. He then became worse and was unconscious until the end. We all loved him, but God loved him best. The dear Lord giveth and taketh away; blessed be the name of the Lord. It was the Lord's will that he was taken from us; we cannot understand why he was taken, but some sweet day in the bye and bye we will understand. Funeral services were held at Bethlehem Church by the pastor, Rev. William Carter; Revs. John T. Stakely and J.H. McDaniel. Flower girls were Nancy Stakely, Fay Hall, Minnie McConkey and Mary Ervin. Pallbearers were Bill and Ralph Stakely, Hugh B. Carter and John Ritchey. His little body was laid to rest beneath a mound of beautiful flowers, to await the Resurrection morning. Biereley in charge. May God's richest blessings rest upon all who assisted in any way during his sickness and death. "Thou art gone, our precious darling; Nevermore shalt thou return Till the Resurrection morn." ----His grandmother, Mrs. Alfred Stakely. ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 6, 1938: "Rev. C.A. Kennedy died at his home in Madisonville at 10 a.m. Sunday after a week's illness. He was 65 years of age. Mr. Kennedy was a Baptist minister and had held various pastorates in this section. He was also a former county judge and former circuit court clerk of Monroe County. He was active in the work of the Junior Order. His pleasant personality and genial manner had won him many friends, by whom he will be missed. Surviving are his wife; two daughters, Miss Addie Lee Kennedy of Madisonville and Mrs. Charles Bagwell of Knoxville; a son, C.A. Kennedy, Jr., of Madisonville; two sisters, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Vero Bearch, Fla., and Mrs. Annie Mae Swiney of Loudon, and a brother, Mack Kennedy, of Waco, Texas. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Baptist church, the Rev. C.S. McCoy officiating. Burial was in Sunset Cemetery. The large concourse of sorrowing friends at the last rites, and the profuse and beautiful floral tributes, attest the high esteem in which Mr. Kennedy was held." _____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 17, 1940: "Tellico Star Route---We were sorry to learn of the death of two young children of Ike Taylor. Interment was near Tellico Plains last Tuesday." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, November 18, 1954: "Daughter Of Former Monroe Co. Couple Killed In Car Wreck---An Etowah girl, daughter of former Monroe County residents, was killed Saturday night when the car in which she, with three others, skidded near Sunbright. Patricia Ann Sharp, 17, daughter of Albert and Marie Ervin Sharp, formerly of the Mt. Vernon community, died of head injuries in a Harriman hospital. Billy Tickle, son of a former Monroe County Methodist minister, was one of the three injured." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, February 24, 1955: "Mrs. Minnie B. Smith, 76, sister of Parson and Mack Miller of Madisonville, died on Thursday of last week at her home at Martel. She is survived by several relatives in Monroe County. Funeral services and burial occurred Saturday afternoon at Rocky Springs Baptist Church." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 10, 1941: "Madisonville Route 2---Mrs. Edith Torbett, wife of G.M. Torbett, passed away peacefully at her home Saturday morning. The deceased had been in failing health for several years---suffering the most excruciating pain; however, she bore her suffering with resignation and was always cheerful and pleasant when her friends visited her. Converted in early life, she later became a member of the Wilson Station Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Torbett was the mother of four children, two of whom preceded her to the spirit world. Her husband and two sons survive. Raymond, the eldest son, is a private in the U.S. Army and is stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C. The youngest, Reed, has been the almost constant companion of his mother during her illness. Her husband was very kind and attentive in caring for the invalid. The funeral services was conducted by Revs. J.W. Newman and C. McCoy Franklin in the Notchey Creek Church on Monday morning. They spoke very touchingly of her strong faith in God during her illness. Burial was in the church cemetery nearby, beside the graves of her children." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, October 4, 1933: "John A. Arp, aged 80 years, retired farmer, and the last member of a large family, died at his home in Vonore Monday, October 2, 1933, after a lingering illness. He is survived by his wife and nine children, five daughters and four sons, 33 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. The children are: Mrs. Lulu Brummitt of Oliver Springs; Mrs. Sallie Snelson of Mentor; Mrs. Ann Lawrence of Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Pauline Cabe of Asheville, N.C.; Mrs. Nona Sullenberger of Knoxville; J.B. Arp of Loudon; Buck Arp of Benton; Tom Arp of Knoxville, and Lee Arp of Sylva, N.C. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Vonore Baptist Church by Rev. R.L. Proctor, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Vonore Cemetery." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 4, 1935: "Mrs. Susie Ann Torbett---Funeral services for Mrs. Susie Ann Torbett, 78, were conducted from the home in the Ho community, Tuesday, at 10:00 A.M., with Rev. J.E. Vaughn, officiating. Burial followed in the Notchey Creek Cemetery. Surviving are her husband, Bill Torbett, and ten children." _____________________________________________________