Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 25, 1936: Boyd Dean, age 29 years, died on Mar. 20, 1936. He was united in marriage to Martha Wallace on Dec. 8, 1923, and to this union were born two children. He leaves a wife, two children Willie Mae and Virginia, has father and mother Mr. and Mrs. J.J. Dean, four sisters, Misses Pearl and Helen Dean, and Mrs. Wesley Nichols, all of this section and Mrs. Roy Gentry of near Sweetwater, three brothers, Vincent, Harley and Johnny, all of this section, and a host of other relatives and friends to mourn his departure. Mr. Dean suffered a prolonged illness of heart dropsy. Boyd was a man who numbered his friends as he met them and will be missed by many. The funeral was conducted at the home of his parents Sunday, pm, by the Rev. Gates of Lenoir City. The bereaved were comforted by the thought that he was peacefully at rest in the hands of Jesus.. _________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, Sep. 22, 1926: John Jenkins Killed. John Jenkins, a young man about 20 years of age, was instantly killed last Sunday evening by Bill Bivens. The murder was committed in the Ball Play community. Not being fully informed as to the cause of the tragedy, we will not attempt a complete report. At the time this was written Bivens was still at large. _____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, Oct. 16, 1946: Little Toqua man killed; two are held. Harley Dean was shot and killed from ambush in the Little Toqua community Monday after- noon. James Allen and Claud Shirk were placed under arrest, charged with the killing, and a preliminary hearing was set for Friday morning before Squire Johnson at the court house. It is reported that there had been a disagreement between the three men concerning some pigs. __________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 1946 In loving Memory of Harley Dean. Harley Dean was born Aug. 12, 1908; departed this life Oct. 14, 1946. He was born in Monroe Co. and has always made it his home. Harley was a person who won friends wherever he went. There is a vacancy in his home and community that can never be filled, for his cheerful smile is gone; but he will always be remembered by all his neighbors and friends. Funeral services were conducted on the lawn of his home by Rev. Taylor, pastor of the Little Toqua Church. Burial was in the cemetery nearby. He leaves his wife, seven children, Edna, Ralph, Mary Lou, Harlean, Beulah Ray and Raymond; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.J. Dean; two brothers, Vincent of Vonore, and Johnnie of Knoxville; four sisters, Mrs. Grant Moser and Mrs. Roy Gentry of Vonore, Mrs. Johnnie Kirkland of Ohio, and a host of other relatives and friends. Flower girls were Thelma Shell, Reynelda Gentry, Alma Tallent, Mrs. Opal Burchfield, Mrs. Margie Williams, Kathleen Bright, Shirley Shell, Linnie Belle West, Bobby Burchfield and Mrs. Jerry Millsaps. Pallbearers were Harrison Saffles, Dock Gray, Charlie West, Marcus Gentry, Willie Kirkland, and Jerry Millsaps Among those who attended the funeral from a distance were Mr. and Mrs. Marion Williams of NC, Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Dean of Akron, Oh.; Fred Charles and Bob Dean of NC; Mrs. Margie Williams of Lenoir City, Mr. Claude Tallent of Maryville. ___________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 14, 1947: James Allen, charged with second degree murder in the killing of Harley Dean, was given ten years in the penitentiary. A new trial is to be argued May 30. __________________________________________________ Madisonville, Democrat, Wednesday, Jan. 12, 1938: Monday and Tuesday were taken up with the trial of Aubrey Smith, charged with the fatal shooting of Walter Bivens on Sept. 19, 1937. Smith was given 21 years in the penitentiary. __________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, Jan. 19, 1938: Gets 21 yeas on charge of killing. In the last case tried in Criminal Court here last week, that of Aubrey Smith, former Georgian and a CCC camp member, Smith was sentenced to 21 years in the state penitentiary on a first degree murder charge, in the fatal shooting of Walter Bivens. ____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, Jan. 19, 1938: Mrs. Len Cardin died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Jake Sheets, in Vonore, Wednesday night of last week after an illness of several months. Mrs. Cardin was 75 years of age. She is survived by one daughter , Mrs. Sheets; four sons, Bruce Cardin, Coleman, Clyde and Hoyt Cardin, of Idaho. Funeral services were held at Ebenezer Bapt. Church in the Ballplay section, the Rev. W.A. Carroll of Knoxville officiating. Burial was in the cemetery there. Mrs. Cardin's death is regretted by many friends. Her was a life of real service and devotion to those around her. ___________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 18, 1948: "Lakeside---Mrs. Will Mincey, after a long illness, passed away Sunday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Jess Matthews, in Lenoir City. We extend sympathy to the bereaved family." _______________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 17, 1948: "Tellico Plains---Funeral services for W.L. Hamilton, 94, were held Monday, March 15, at 2 p.m., in Piney Grove Baptist Church, the Revs. George Watson and Hoyt Shadden officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Mr. Hamilton passed away on Saturday night at the home of his son, Ottis Hamilton, following a paralytic stroke which he suffered in his sleep. Surviving are six sons; Ottis and J.A., both of Tellico Plains; O.W. of Dawson, Ala.; Carl of Madisonville; Ollie of Roslie, Ala., and George of Chickamauga, Ga." ---Miss Irene Ellis. _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, April 7, 1948: "In Memory of W.L. Hamilton---W.L. Hamilton passed away on March 13, 1948, being 94 years and one day old. He professed faith in Christ in early life and joined the old Mt. Vernon Church, which is now called Piney Grove. He married Mary Tate, a daughter of old Uncle Jimmy Tate, and a fine Christian woman. Mary and Uncle Wash reared a fine, respectable family of seven children ---six sons and one daughter. The daughter, Mrs. Ella Moses, preceded her parents in death several years ago. The sons were Mr. J.A. Hamilton of Tellico Plains Route 2, Ott of Tellico Plains, O.W. and Ollie of Alabama, Cal of Madisonville Route 3 and George of Georgia. They were also blessed with 25 grandchildren. I was a personal friend of Uncle Wash (as he was always spoken of). I have known him for many years and enjoyed his visits in my home, and I always found him to be an upright, straight-forward Christian. In 1915 he moved from Tennessee to Alabama, where he was successful in farming and accumulated quite a bit of wealth; and in his old days he did not forget his old home and friends. In 1938 he sold his home in Alabama and came back to this state where he made his home with his children, Jim, Ott and Cal. We must not forget Uncle Wash who has departed from this life for a home beyond the veil of tears, where there is no night, but one eternal day, with the Lord. Let us remember this scripture: "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days draw not nigh nor the days when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them." Funeral services were held at Piney Grove Baptist Church on March 15." ---Rev. W.N. Cagle. ____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, December 17, 1953: "Levi Lunsford, 90, died at his home near Madisonville on Saturday night. Funeral services and burial occurred Monday afternoon at Watson's Chapel Baptist Church, with Revs. C.P. Holland of Madisonville and J.W. Millsaps of Sweetwater officiating. Members of the intermediate class at Watson's Chapel were flower bearers. He was a long-time member of Marble, N.C., Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Mary Lunsford; four grandchildren, Jimmy, Betty Jean, Carolyn and Garry Lunsford, one brother, Lewis Lunsford of Marble, N.C., and a sister, Mrs. Liza Martin of Macon, Ga." ____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, April 10, 1946: "Lakeside---Having received news of the death of their uncle, Mr. Frank Morton of Lenoir City, Mr. & Mrs. Grady Shaffer and family and Mrs. Annie Leslie spent Sunday with the bereaved family." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 12, 1930: "Vonore Route One---On February 3, 1930, the death angel visited the home of Mr. Jim Smallin and claimed his wife, Dosie Smallin. Dosie leaves three children, a mother, husband, two brothers and one sister and a host of other relatives and friends to mourn her passing. She was laid to rest in the Mt. Zion Cemetery to await the bright resurrection." __________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, April 21, 1960: "Aged Route 1 Man Passes Wednesday---James Houston Blair, 89, died at 9:15 a.m. Wednesday at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mamie Best, on Madisonville. Other survivors are a son, Roscoe Blair; 14 grandchildren, several great -grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. Dicie Cottrell, Maryville Route 1, and two brothers, Lige Blair of Madisonville and George Blair, Vonore Route 3." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 12, 1950: "Ebenezer---Funeral services for Amos Cain, who died June 30 in Sweetwater Hospital, were conducted from Ebenezer Church on Sunday, July 2, at 2 p.m. Burial was in Land Cemetery. Mr. Cain was a former resident of this community and lived in Loudon. _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 25, 1929: "Mr. Bill Lynn McKee---On Thursday morning, September 19, at the dawn of day, the death angel entered the home of Mr. Bill McKee and claimed as its victim the husband and father, Mr. Lynn McKee. He passed away almost without a struggle. He had been ill for some time, and had told his loved ones the day before he died that he "had a home and it paid for." He bore his sufferings without a murmur and was so patient when asked how he felt he would always say, "I am better." Mr. Lynn (McKee) was married in the year 1898 to Miss Annie Ingram. To this union was born nine children, three of whom died in infancy. He leaves to mourn their loss, his widow and six children; Mrs. Floyd Russell, Mrs. Bill Riggs, Mrs. Wiley Garner, Miss Maud Lynn, Messrs. Fonzo and George Lynn, and twelve grandchildren, besides a host of friends. He was 61 years old. He once carried the mail on horseback from Sweetwater to Brakebill. He always seemed to be happy and contented. He had the best attention that loving hands could give, and the waiting physicians, but all to no avail. He was laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Charlie Seagles. Mr. Lynn (McKee) had been a member of the Baptist Church for several years. The parting was hard, but his loved ones realized that if they live as God would have them live, some day they can go and live with him where there will be no more parting, no more sorrow---God will wipe all tears away. Be comforted, troubled hearts, all may be reunited on the "Happy Golden Shore." May God bless the bereaved family. ---A Friend. _______________________________________________________- Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, December 23, 1931: "Corra Arp, aged 22 years, died Tuesday night at St. Mary's Hospital in Knoxville. Corra took sick about three weeks ago and suffered intense pain. At first it was not known what was the cause of his illness, but decided later that an operation was necessary if his life would be spared. He was taken to St. Mary's Hospital and operated on Sunday, when it was learned he had a tumor. He rallied after the operation, but in his weakened condition he passed away as above stated. He was a son of Mr. & Mrs. B.M. Arp and besides his parents, he leaves a wife and brothers and sisters to mourn his death. Funeral services will be held on Thursday afternoon and his remains will be laid to rest in Forest Chapel Cemetery. The family have the sympathy of all in their bereavement." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 6, 1932: "Obituary---Corra J. Arp was born Sept, 16, 1909, and departed this life December 22, 1931, at St. Mary's Hospital in Knoxville, being at the time of his death, 22 years, 3 months, 6 days of age. On April 23, 1930, he was united in marriage to Lucille Lankford. Besides his widow, he is survived by his parents, U.S. Deputy Marshall and Mrs. B.M. Arp; one sister, Mrs. T.R. Moore, of Vonore Route 1 and three brothers, G.W., of Calderwood, Eulis and Bennie, of Madisonville. His funeral was conducted by Rev. J.E. Ransome, and his remains were laid to rest in Forest Chapel Cemetery, at Ball Play, under a blanket of flowers. Weep not for he is gone, A voice we loved is stilled, A place is vacant in our hearts That never can be filled. But he is at rest." -----A Friend. _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 2, 1941: "Mount Vernon---Virgil Howard Freeman, son of Mr. & Mrs. Dee Freeman, was accidentally killed in a bus accident Saturday night. The young man was coming home on furlough from Camp Jackson, S.C., to visit his parents. The bus by some means was hit by a freight car. He was buried at Holly Springs, Monday." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, November 5, 1953: "John Wright Dies Tuesday At Vonore Home---John W. Wright, 66, died Tuesday night at his home in Vonore. He was a retired farmer and a life -long Monroe County resident. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Alice Lankford Wright, and a son, Hurshell, of Vonore; three daughters, Mrs. Pauline Summitt and Mrs. Blankenship, both of Vonore, and Mrs. Juanita Mincey of Sweetwater; one brother, Denver Wright, of Maryville; two sisters, Mrs. Andrew Jackson and Mrs. Vastine Wayman, Philadelphia, and 11 grandchildren. Funeral services were held on Thursday afternoon at Lakeside Baptist Church. Burial was in the church cemetery." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, June 9, 1960: "Former Resident Dies In Georgia---Joe L. Payne, 88, former resident of Madisonville, died at his home in Trion, Georgia Monday at 7 A.M. He had resided in Trion for the past 51 years. Survived by five daughters, Mrs. W.O. Odom, Rome, Georgia; Mrs. S.D. Hamby and Mrs. Hoke Smith, Lafayette, Ga.; Mrs. Tiny Dover and Mrs. Cecile Brock, Trion, Ga.; five sons, Andrew Payne, Asheville, N.C.; Emory Payne and Clifford Payne, Trion, Ga., Thomas Payne, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Gordon Payne, Atlanta, Ga.; two sisters, Mrs. Delores Patterson, Jellico, Tenn., Miss Gussie Payne, Chickamauga, Ga.; two brothers, Walter Payne, Tellico, Tenn., Jack Payne, Chattanooga; one step-daughter, Mrs. Ilen, Peoria, Arizona; a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren survives. Funeral services were conducted from the Welcome Hill Baptist Church of which he was a member, Tuesday at 4:30 p.m., with Rev. Billy Coulter officiating with burial in the West Hill Cemetery, Trion. Active pallbearers were Eugent Garner, Aaron Marion, Jimmy and Willis Dover and J.S. Hamby. J.D. Hill Funeral Home of Summerville, Ga., was in charge of arrangements." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, October 8, 1959: "Funeral Services Held Sunday For Greely Cain---Greely Cain, 58, of Madisonville, died at 2:50 a.m. Friday at Sweetwater Hospital. He was an automobile mechanic with P & N Chevrolet Inc., Sweetwater, having previously worked with other automobile concerns in this area, including some in which he held an ownership. Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Glennie Smith Cain; a daughter, Joyce, both of Madisonville; brother, James Cain, Loudon; two sisters, Mrs. Frank Barnes, Mrs. Berdie Howington, both of Lenoir City; two half-brothers and a half-sister. Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday at the First Baptist Church, Rev. Dillard Mynatt and Rev. Creed McCoy officiating. Burial was in Sunset Cemetery." ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 2, 1925: Interesting News From Route Six, August 31, 1925---I was sorry to learn of the death of Mrs. Tishie Wilson Lankford." ---Georgia A. Stakely. __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, August 23, 1951: "James T. Cavett, 81, died in Sweetwater at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elmer Dixon last week. Funeral services were held at Sweetwater Methodist Church Thursday afternoon, Rev. D.L. Jones officiating. Other survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Fletcher Fitch and Mrs. Woodrow Willett of Sweetwater, and a son, James Cavett of Philadelphia." _________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, September 3, 1941: "Maxine Sharp was born November 22, 1935, and was instantly killed Saturday, Aug. 30, 1941, by an automobile. She was the youngest daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Horace H. Sharp. Others who survive her are a twin brother, Max, and sisters, Nina Bell, Verna Sue and Virginia. Also a great-uncle and aunt, Rev. and Mrs. L.N. Patterson, with whom she spent most of her life; a number of uncles and aunts and a host of other relatives and friends. Maxine, with her brother, made friends with everyone with whom they came in contact. She was a very intelligent child and on Friday before her death, had gone to Madisonville Elementary School and registered for her first year in school. Funeral services were conducted at the Madisonville Baptist Church with Revs. Bill Carter and W.E. Jelf officiating. Interment was in the McClellan Family Cemetery." _________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 22, 1939: "E.D. Hicks---On the morning of Feb. 14, 1939, at Howard-Henderson Hospital, Knoxville, the dark winged angel called for E.D. Hicks. Burial was in Hopewell Cemetery. Mr. Hicks was well known by everyone in his home community, and was loved by all. He was born and lived his earthly life in Monroe County. He was 65 years old. He joined the Baptist church at Clifton something like twenty years ago and lived a faithful Christian life ever since. He was married to Miss Pheba Mock, who preceded him to the grave about five years ago. To this union were born four children, two of them passing away in infancy; the two still living are Will Hicks and Mrs. Sallie McCulla. He is also survived by four grandchildren and by two brothers and one sister: John Hicks of Vonore Route 3, Bob Hicks of Mountain Home, Idaho, and Mrs. Becca McCulla of Sweetwater. Pallbearers were E.D. Wynn, McCullah, Luther Sitton, Von Millsaps, Lee Millsaps and James Cooper. Flower girls were Mrs. Alva McGhee, Miss Boss Howard, Mrs. Bob Sutton. Biereley Funeral Home in charge." ---A Friend. ____________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 24, 1946: "Dr. H.C. Shearer, Long A Practicing Physician Passes Away---Dr. H.C. Shearer, for many years a practicing physician in Madisonville, died on Wednesday about noon. He had practically retired from active practice some time, but had been seriously ill only a few hours. Funeral services Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock. The body will lie in state at the Methodist Church from 3:15 to 4, and the service will be conducted by Rev. B.H. Greene of Sweetwater and Rev. E.J. Ingle. Burial in Sunset Cemetery. Dr. Shearer is survived by two daughters, Misses Lillian and Mildred Shearer, Madisonville; a brother, Dr. M.D. Shearer, Tellico Plains; two sisters, Miss Cyna Shearer and Mrs. O.D. Thompson, Etowah. He was 69 years of age and was a member of the Methodist Church, the Monroe County Medical Association and Tellico Lodge F. & A.M. Pallbearers will be the members of the Medical Association, the Masonic Lodge and the Men's Sunday School Class of the Methodist Church." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 17, 1940: "Luther Britton was found dead in bed, at his home in the Acorn community, early Thursday morning of last week. Mr. Britton had eaten a hearty supper and retired apparently in good health. Funeral services were held at Ballplay Church Tuesday morning of this week, conducted by the Revs. Stakely, Ransome and Blasingame. Burial was in Ballplay Cemetery. Mr. Britton was 42 years of age. He was a life-long resident of Monroe County and was a candidate for constable in the August election. Surviving are his wife; two sons, Claude and Boyd Britton; three daughters, Misses Lima, Lillian and Catherine; also several brothers and sisters." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 26, 1936: "Charlie Patterson was born May 18, 1869, and died early Saturday morning, February 21, 1936. He was first married to Nannie Henderson, September 15, 1895, and after her death he was later married to Ida Kerley Lee on January 18, 1921. Surviving are his widow and the following children; Mrs. Nicey Giles, Mrs. Eva Brannon, Mrs. Tava Mason, Mrs. Maude Ella Mason, Misses Blanche and Alice Irene Patterson, Okley Patterson of Georgia, and Roy Lee, Ralph, Charles Jr., and Amos Patterson. Funeral services were held from the Notchey Creek Baptist Church Sunday afternoon with Rev. W.A. Carroll officiating. Burial followed in the Notchey Creek Cemetery." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, March 18, 1936: "Madisonville Route Two---Mrs. George Croft, Sr., passed away on Thursday following an illness with flu and pneumonia. Interment was made on Friday at the Croft family graveyard near the home. She leaves a husband and three children, Jack Croft of Chattanooga, George Croft Jr., and Mrs. Sam Harris, who lived nearby. To the bereaved we offer sincere sympathy." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 21, 1939: "Joe Mincey, Jr., Dies After Lingering Illness---Joe Mincey, Jr., son of Mr. & Mrs. Joe Mincey of Loudon, died Thursday morning at the home after a lingering illness. He was thirteen years of age. Funeral services were conducted Saturday at the First Baptist Church in Loudon, the Rev. E.R. Webster officiating. Mr. Mincey, for some time a resident of Madisonville, has the sympathy of all in the death of his son." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 8, 1942: "Edward Dotson, 16-month-old son of Mr. & Mrs. Charley Dotson, of Sweetwater Route 5, died at 5 a.m. Friday. Funeral was held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, at the East Sweetwater Baptist Church, with Rev. Marion Shope officiating. Burial followed in Hopewell Church Cemetery. Besides his parents, he is survived by three sisters, Mary Helen, Agnes and Clara Ruth, and two brothers, Leon and Homer Lee." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 6, 1943: "George D. Crofts died on Wednesday of last week at his home near Madisonville. Mr. Crofts was 80 years of age. He is survived by three sons, A.M., S.A. and G.W. Crofts, all of Chattanooga, and two daughters, Mrs. Cora Cooke of Ooltewah and Mrs. Ethel Harris of Madisonville Route 5. Funeral services were held at the home on Friday. Burial was in the family cemetery." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 24, 1945: "N.W. Ellis Passes at Tellico Plains---Funeral services for Rev. Nathaniel Watson Ellis, who passed away on Friday at 12:45 a.m., at his home in Tellico Plains, were held at the Tellico Plains Baptist Church on Sunday afternoon, the Rev. R.W. Selman of Etowah officiating, assisted by Rev. George Watson. Judge Sue K. Hicks, a fellow Legionnaire also spoke tenderly of the life of Rev. Ellis and his unselfish service to his fellow men. Burial was in the cemetery near the church. Music at the funeral service was by Mrs. L.B. Dickson, soloist, and Miss Margaret Johnston, pianist, of Etowah. Pallbearers were members of the American Legion Posts of Madisonville and Etowah; military honors at the graveside were performed by the Home Guard of Sweetwater and "taps" was blown by a representative of Tennessee Military Institute. Mr. Ellis was 51 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Brunner Land Ellis; one daughter, Miss Irene Ellis, Tellico Plains; a sister, Mrs. D.M. Chambers, Newport; a brother, Dan Ellis, of Florida; several nieces and nephews and a host of friends. He served as a lieutenant on the Mexican border during the expedition sent there shortly before World War I to protect the interests of Americans while revolutionary was raged in Mexico, and as first lieutenant during World War I, with the 117th Inf., 30th Division, having received the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action near Montbrehain, France, on Oct. 7, 1918, when he rushed forward, alone, in the face of direct machine gun fire, and removed enemy resistance which had halted his men in their forward progress. During the war he suffered wounds from which he never recovered. Previous to this, in 1909 he enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Philippines, China, Japan and in the Hawaiian Islands. "Watt," as he was known by his many friends, for some time was adjutant of the Disabled War Veterans, having offices with the Veterans Administration in Nashville. He was also a Baptist minister for years and held several pastorates. Although bearing permanent and painful wounds from heroic service to his country, he retained, until the end, his spirit of optimism, his life of constant activity and his friendliness which had always characterized his life. He served as commander of Etowah Post, American Legion, at one time, and at all times was interested and willing to work for the interests of Christianity, his church, his comrades and friends. The large number of friends who came sadly to pay their last tribute of respect, and the many beautiful flowers which covered his casket, were evidence of the place he held in the hearts of those who knew him and their genuine sorrow at his passing." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 28, 1945: "Writes Anent Death of Rev. N.W. Ellis---Mr. Willard Yarbrough, of the staff of the Knoxville News-Sentinel, and Associated Press representative, writes Mrs. N.W. Ellis of Tellico Plains: "It was certainly a shock when I read about Mr. Ellis' death. Anybody would miss a man of his character and personality. I numbered him among my few close friends because he always displayed an interest in others and had little enough time to be deeply concerned about himself. The world, especially during these times, would do well to have many N.W. Ellises---I'm sure it would be a better place to live in. To me, he always appeared to be unselfish and possessing a desire to help others in any way he could. Although I had been out of touch with Mr. Ellis for several years I never forgot him and always wondered how he was getting on. You may remember that Mr. Ellis gave me a tip and story on King Bee, that ferocious boar above Tellico that made the headlines all over the country. Mr. Ellis gave King Bee to the country. No one outside Tellico territory had ever heard of King Bee until Mr. Ellis broke the story through me. It was such things as these that made persons mindful of Mr. Ellis' being---helping one way or another. I shall miss him too." The Democrat is in receipt of a story or two by Mr. Ellis concerning the annual hunts around Tellico Plains, and we expect to publish them as we have space." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, January 6, 1932, Page 3: "J.T. McSpadden, aged 73 years, one of the oldest and best known citizens of this section, died Monday morning, December 28, 1931, of a complication of diseases. He was sick only about a week. Mr. McSpadden was a kind husband, a loving father and a good citizen held in the highest esteem. He will be missed in the home as well as by the public in general. He leaves a wife and one son, J.T. McSpadden Jr., and three daughters, Misses Ruby and Gussie and Mrs. Clarence Melton, to mourn his death. Funeral services were held from the Presbyterian church Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, conducted by the pastor, Rev. E.F. Griffith. The services were largely attended, the church being too small to accommodate the crowd. The remains were laid to rest in the City Cemetery. The family have the sympathy of all in their great loss." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 18, 1932, Page 1: "News From Here And There---There was a large crowd attended the funeral of Mr. Patterson at Notchey Creek. He was 86 years of age." ______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 18, 1932, Page 1: "Interesting News From Route Six---Sunday, May 15, 1932: Neighbor Luther Harris called with me while this morning. He told me that Miss Amanda Lee Davis and Mr. Leander Patterson were both dead. Miss Davis was a daughter of Mr. & Mrs. W.T. Davis and a granddaughter of Peter and Mahala Ramey Davis. Mr. Patterson was a son of George and Susan Garren Patterson. His wife's maiden name was Addie Selvidge. I have known him all my life. He was one of our best citizens. He was never known to do an unjust deed, was always honest, clean and innocent in all his ways. He leaves one brother, Robert Patterson, of Madisonville; he leaves several children, grandchildren and many relatives and friends. Miss Davis will be buried today at Eleazar Camp Ground Cemetery, and Mr. Patterson will be buried today in Notchey Creek Cemetery. I am thinking now of Leander Patterson. He had been blind for many years, but he now beholds "The Great King" in His beauty. He now beholds all those beautiful mansions of light; he now beholds the face of our Savior. His vision will never more grow dim; his sight will be clear and strong forever. Those long, dark years in which he suffered total blindness are now ended. I want to see and be with you again, dear friend; I want to see and be with you in that Happy Land to which you have gone. One by one, our dear old friends are passing away, and oh! How we miss them." ---Georgia A. Stakely. _______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, May 18, 1932, Page 3: "Mr. Lee Patterson died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Walter Carruth, in this city, last Friday at the age of 86 years. He leaves a large number of children as follows: Mrs. Charles Morton, and Mrs. Walter Carruth of Madisonville; Mrs. Eliza Humphrey of Menlo, Ga.; Mrs. Raper of Englewood; Mrs. Lou Lee of Trion, Ga.; Mrs. Maggie Roderick of Shooting Creek, N.C.; Jeff Patterson of Mentor; Jesse Patterson of Andrews, N.C.; and Charles Patterson of Big Creek. Funeral services were conducted Saturday at Big Creek, by the Rev. J.E. Dotson and the Rev. J.E. Vaughn." _______________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, July 4, 1934, Page 2: "Burton Hill, July 1, 1934---We are sorry to note the death of the little 4-month old son of Mr. Ed Dotson on Saturday. His mother, Mrs. Clara Belle Waters Dotson died when he was only a few days old, and went to be there at his coming. Mr. Dotson had spent these days with his father-in-law, Mr. Waters, of Fork Creek. We extend them our greatest sympathy. I am sure mother was on the banks of the Beautiful River. Father, you can go over there. I know you are longing to step out on God's promises. He will take you through the shadows." ________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, July 31, 1952, Page 1: "Grandmother Of Local Man Dies At Home---Mrs. Bettie L. Gaut, grandmother of Dr. M.M. McGuire, died Tuesday at 12:15 a.m. at her home in Sweetwater. Mrs. Gaut was 101 years of age. Other survivors include four daughters, Miss Bess Gaut, Mrs. G.W. Fleming and Mrs. H.M. McGuire Sr., of Sweetwater and Miss Lila Gaut of Greenville, S.C.; a sister, Mrs. W.L. Cline of Chattanooga; two great granddaughters and a great grandson. Funeral services were held at Kyker Chapel in Sweetwater on Wednesday afternoon, Rev. Gordon Greenwell officiating. Burial was in West View Cemetery." __________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Thursday, September 16, 1954, Page 7: "Linda Marlene Dotson, 6 months, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Ed Dotson of Sweetwater Route 4, died Sunday afternoon at Sweetwater Hospital. Funeral services were held on Tuesday at Oak Grove Baptist Church. Burial was in the church cemetery." ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 21, 1940: "Mrs. Polly Ann English, 57, died Aug. 19 at her home near Hiwassee College. Funeral services were held at Oak Grove Baptist Church, Wednesday, Aug. 21 at 10 a.m. near the college. Mrs. English is survived by her husband, Ira; three daughters, Mrs. Lucile Patterson, Mrs. Rachel Fagg, and Miss Grace Kirkland; two sons, Millard English and Luther Kirkland; her mother, Mrs. Rachel Kirkland; four sisters, Mrs. Henry Jenkins, Mrs. B.T. Bevins, Mrs. Clarence Bivens and Mrs. Walter Bivens; and two brothers, Jess Kirkland and George W. Kirkland." _____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Friday, February 7, 1896, Page 4: "Town Talk---Mrs. Cathcart, widow of Jos. Cathcart, died at her home near Hopewell Springs Friday. She was about 85 years old. She was a kind-hearted Christian woman and a host of friends mourn her death." _______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 6, 1929, Page 1: "Vonore Route One---Mr. Banister Bivens died Sunday and was buried Tuesday at the Friends church. Uncle Ban lived a true Christian life. He was 87 years old and leaves a wife, five boys, three girls and several grandchildren. The boys are Frank Bivens of White Oak Flats and Boss Bivens of Ballplay, John Bivens of Ballplay, Carter Bivens of Ballplay and Wash Bivens of Ballplay. The girls are Mrs. Hugh Tallent of Madisonville, Mrs. Charlie Burris of Ballplay and Mrs. Partheny Powers of Tellico Plains, and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his departure." Page 2: "Bannister Turner Bivens---On Feb. 1, 1929, at the age of 87 years, 9 months and 29 days, Bannister Turner Bivens, after weeks of sickness and suffering, heard the call of the Great Head of the Church to come up higher. He was born in Monroe County, Tenn., April 3, 1841 and was one of thirteen children, having had six brothers and six sisters. One brother, Phillip Bivens, and one sister, Mrs. Het Hawkins survive him. As a young man, when his country was torn by Civil War, he joined the army to help settle the strife. On Dec. 13, 1866 when he was 25 years of age, he was married to Melvina Kitchen, who survives him. To this union were born seven sons and three daughters. Five sons: Washington, John, Carter, Frank and Bannister, all of Ball Play. Three daughters: Mrs. Susan Tallent of Madisonville, Mrs. Parthena Powers of Tellico Plains and Mrs. Rachel Burris of Ball Play, still live to mourn his loss, besides there are 39 grandchildren and 53 great- grandchildren. He was converted in early manhood and united with the Baptist church, later taking his membership to the Friends church, with which church he labored for many years before receiving the final summons. He was a man of but few words, who lived a quiet unassuming life, but whose life was positively on the side of righteousness. He was a very liberal man. Every undertaking of the church found in him a loyal supporter, not only with his influence but with his dollars. Bannister Bivens was a man who enjoyed the respect of all who knew him. He was a kind and loving father and husband, a highly esteemed neighbor and friend, a good citizen. He is gone. He will be missed. The funeral service was held at Farr's Chapel Sunday, Feb. 3, Rev. J. Edward Ransome and Fred L. McMillin officiating." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, June 10, 1942 Mrs. Nancy Williams passed peacefully away at her home at Gudger on May 31, after a painful illness with cancer. "Aunt Nan," as she was familiarly called, was a member of the Chestua Baptist Church and will be missed by a large circle of friends as she had resided in our midst for many years. She leaves two daughters and a son, all of whom reside elsewhere. The funeral was preached by Rev. Creasman at the Chestua Methodist Church on Monday, June 1, and burial followed in the cemetery nearby. ______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, February 13, 1946, Page 1: "Luther Veal Found Dead; Inquest Says Shot Self---Luther Veal, 49 year-old father of eight children, on Saturday was found dead from a shotgun wound. A shotgun lay near him in the bedroom of his home, a mile and a half from Tellico Plains. An inquest, conducted by Deputy Sheriff Earl Hall, Police Chief Joe Dailey, Dr. M.D. Shearer and others, decided that Mr. Veal had shot himself. A note left for Eugene Veal, 18, a son who is with the Army at Fort Knox, Ky., said: "Stay at home if you can and take care of the three little ones." Page2: "In Loving Memory Of Luther Veal---Luther W. Veal was the son of Nathan and Florence Veal. Luther was born on Feb. 4, 1897, and departed this life on Feb. 9, 1946. He was born in Monroe County and spent his life here. He leaves to mourn because of his passing, his wife, Dorcas Harris Veal; eight children, his parents, six brothers and three sisters and an uncle and aunt. Luther, we miss you since you have gone away; you know why you did this; I don't." An aunt and a friend, Miss Carentha Mitchell. ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, October 2, 1946, Page 1: "Mrs. G.L. Henderson Passes At Vonore---Mrs. Carrie Woods Henderson, 74 years of age, wife of Mr. G.L. Henderson, died at her home in Vonore on Sunday, Sept. 29, after an illness of a few months. Surviving, besides her husband, is one son, Willie Henderson; two grandsons, G.L. and Billie Henderson, all of Vonore, one brother, T.D. Woods, of Abeline, Texas. Funeral services were held from the First Baptist Church in Madisonville on Tuesday at 3 p.m. with the pastor, Rev. E.J. Ingle, officiating, assisted by Rev. Henry Horton, pastor of the Vonore Methodist Church. Burial was in Sunset Cemetery. Mrs. Henderson was reared in Madisonville, where her life is a memory of her unending work in the church and community. In 1890 Mrs. Henderson, with six other Baptists, organized the present Sunday School of the First Baptist Church of Madisonville. Now, only two of that number survive. They are Mrs. R.P. Sulte (Miss Hattie Crowder) of Chattanooga and Mrs. Albert Nuss (Miss Mary Crowder) of Knoxville. Flower girls at the last rites were members of the Eastern Star and of the W.M.U. of the Baptist Church at Vonore. Pallbearers were Elige Rollins, Willie Harvey, James Hitch, Bennie Brookshire, Prof. Pryor Hunt and Jake Sheets." ____________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, October 9, 1946, Page 1: "In Loving Memory Of Mrs. G.L. Henderson---After a long illness Mrs. G.L. Henderson passed to her reward at her home in Vonore at sunset on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 29, 1946. Mrs. Henderson was 74 years old and had been seriously ill for many weeks, but was patient and uncomplaining and bore her suffering without a murmur. She underwent an operation at Sweetwater Hospital in June, but her condition gradually grew worse and no hopes were held for her recovery; later she was removed to her home in Vonore, where everything possible was done for her comfort and everything that could be done to save her life was done, but to no avail. God had need of her, and after a long and useful life she fell asleep to awake in the arms of Jesus, whom she had loved and trusted for many years. A place is truly left vacant in this home, for no one can take the place of mother. No mother was ever more tenderly cared for in her last hours than was mrs. Henderson. Her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Gladys Henderson, rarely ever left her bedside and bestowed upon her a love equal to that of any mother. She was assisted in her nursing by a neighbor, Mrs. Marie Rollins, who was constantly on hand to help in every was she could to give relief to the family. The members of the family also extend special thanks to Mrs. Boyd Williams and Mrs. Jimmy Hitch, two close neighbors, for their help in these trying hours. Mrs. Henderson's room was filled with beautiful flowers all during her illness, showing the high esteem in which she was held by her many friends. She professed faith in Christ at an early age and lived a faithful Christian life until God called her to the home He had prepared for her, eternal in the heavens. She was a member of the Madisonville Baptist Church, of the W.M.S., and of the Eastern Star of Vonore. After an impressive funeral service at the Madisonville Baptist Church, her body was laid to rest under a mound of beautiful flowers in Sunset Cemetery, to await the Resurrection Morn. The teachers of the Vonore Schools served as flower girls. Active pallbearers were Elige Rollins, Willie Harvey, Jake Sheets, Jimmy Hitch, Brunner Brookshire and Prof. Pryor Hunt, principal of Vonore High School. Honorary pallbearers were Mesdames Bess Ellis, Eula Carver, Annie Brannon, Marie Rollins, Mattie Ingram and Mollie Pettit. Mrs. Henderson, before moving to Vonore, had lived for many years in Madisonville, where she was active in church and social circles and all civic matters pertaining to the betterment of the community. She made many friends during her residence in Vonore. Her death is deeply regretted by her many friends, and it can truly be said, a good neighbor and friend is gone; but she has only crossed over the great River of Life, where she is waiting to greet us as we pass down life's journey one by one. She is survived by her husband, G.L. Henderson, of Vonore; one son, Willie Henderson, of Vonore; two adoring grandsons, one brother and many other relatives and friends who join in extending sincere sympathy to the heart-broken family. May God give comfort to them in their dark hours is the wish of---A Friend." ___________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, November 13, 1946, Page 3: "In Memory Of Mrs. Carrie Woods Henderson---Whereas, the Great and Supreme Ruler of the universe has, in His infinite wisdom, removed from the Order of the Eastern Star one of our worthy and esteemed members, Mrs. Carrie Woods Henderson, and Whereas, the long and intimate relation held with her in the faithful discharge of her duties in our organization makes it eminently befitting that we record our appreciation of her; Therefore, our Order has resolved the following: First, the wisdom and ability which she has exercised in the faithful discharge of her duties in our Order will be held in grateful remembrance. Second, the sudden removal of such a life from our midst leaves a vacancy and a shadow that will be deeply realized by all her sisters and brothers, and will prove a serious loss to our organization. Third, with deep sympathy for the bereaved relatives of our departed sister, we express our hope that even so great a loss to us may be overruled for good by Him, for He doeth all things well. Fourth, that a copy of these resolutions be spread on the records of this organization, a copy printed in the local paper and a copy forwarded to the bereaved family. Fraternally submitted by Sister Mary Belle Frank, Sister Ruby Mason, Brother Brunner Brookshire." _______________________________________________________________ Madisonville Democrat, Wednesday, August 13, 1947, Page 1: "Mrs. John S. Giles Dies In Chattanooga---Nice Patterson Giles was born in Monroe County on Sept. 27, 1896, and passed away at her home, 2120 North Chamberlain, East Chattanooga, August 8, 1947. She was the daughter of the late Mr. & Mrs. Charles Patterson. She professed faith in Christ at an early age and lived a consistent Christian life. She was a member of Union Hall Presbyterian Church. She was loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed by her family and friends. On Sept. 6, 1911, she was married to John S. Giles and to this union thirteen children, seven boys and six girls, were born, five of whom preceded her to the grave. She is survived by her husband and the following eight children: Charles, H.B., Rex, Elizabeth, Jim, Earl and Geraldine Giles and Mrs. Horace Mason. She is also survived by seven grandchildren; the following sisters: Mrs. Atley Brannon, Mrs. Howard Mason and Mrs. Ralph Mason; three brothers, Oakley, Roy and Ralph Patterson; one half-sister, Miss Alice Patterson; two half-brothers, Charles Patterson, Jr., and Amos Patterson. Funeral services were held at Chestua Methodist Church on August 10." Page 5: "Madisonville Route Two---The funeral and burial of Mrs. John Giles of Hamilton County, near Chattanooga, occurred at the Chestua Methodist Church on Sunday afternoon. Mrs. Giles will be remembered as Miss Nicie Patterson. They had been in the dairy business for many years and had a family of several children. God rest her soul in peace, and may the relatives have the consolation of the Holy Spirit.' ---Mrs. Nellie C. Stakely. _______________________________________________________