JANUARY 1945

 

ADKINS, Frank

Frank Adkins, 78, an invalid bedfast for 4 months, was burned fatally and his daughter, Mrs. James Simmons, 50, was in a Grayson hospital today with serious burns on her arms and face after fire destroyed their home at isolated Greene, 7 miles north of Sandy Hook, late Thursday night. The flames, which originated  in the attic of the 8 room frame house, were not discovered until the ceiling started to fall. Mrs. Simmons who attempted to rescue her father, was dragged to safety by her husband, after being overcome by smoke. Of their 13 children, of whom 4 are in the armed services, 6 were at the home and escaped without injury. The house and contents were destroyed with loss estimated at $6,000. Big Sandy News, Jan 12, 1945

 

BERRY, Alafair (Spillman)

BERRY, O. H.

Joint funeral services for Mrs. Alafair Spillman Berry, 87, of Louisa route 3, and her son, O. H. Berry, 43, Goody, KY, were held Sunday at 1 p.m. at the Clem Short Cemetery, near here. The Revs. Gallie Isaac and Oscar Sagraves officiated at the brief services. Mrs. Berry, who had been in poor health for some time, lived at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Smith Adams of route 3. When word was received early Friday morning of the death of Mr. Berry, members of the family on entering Mrs. Berry's room to communicate the news to her found that she had passed quietly away. Her husband, the late William Berry, died in 1939. They were natives of Lawrence County having lived in the Twin Branch section all their lives. She is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Jim Adams, Mrs. Frank Newsome and Mrs. Smith Adams, all of route 3, 1 sister, Mrs. Jim Berry of Yatesville and 2 brothers, Arthur and Willie Spillman of Louisa, route 3. Mr. Berry is survived by the widow, Mrs. Janie Berry, Goody, 1 son, Joseph Willis Berry of the U. S. Navy and 1 daughter, Wilma Annalee Berry, Goody and 3 sisters, Mrs. Jim Adams and Mrs. Smith Adams, both of Louisa and Mrs. Frank Newsome of Yatesville. Big Sandy news, Jan 26, 1945

 

CARTER, A. O.

O. Carter, 77, prominent Louisa attorney died at 4:05 p.m. Sunday in a Louisa hospital. He suffered a stroke Sunday, Dec 24. He had been in ill health for the last 3 years. Mr. Carter, a practicing attorney for 50 years was a former circuit court clerk and master commissioner of Lawrence County. Mr. Carter was born at Yatesville, a son of George and Emma Hutchinson Carter. His first wife, Mrs. Belle Burgess Carter preceded him in death in 1928. He was united in marriage to Miss Laura Berry of Ashland 8 years ago. Mr. Carter, long prominent in civic and social affairs was one of the first member of the Methodist Church and was superintendent of the Sunday school for a number of years. Funeral services were conducted at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Louisa Methodist Church with the Rev. L. M. Rogers officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery. Surviving in addition to his wife are a daughter, Mrs. W. T. Wood of Catlettsburg, 2 sons, Dr. Burgess Carter of Fleming, KY and Lieut. George Phillip Carter of Ft. Knox, KY. Big Sandy News, Jan 5, 1945

 

COOKSEY, William A.

William A. Cooksey, 62, of 1412 Blackburn Ave., Ashland, died Friday morning in King's Daughters' hospital after an illness of 1 month. Mr. Cooksey well known Catlettsburg grocer for the last 23 years, was born Jan 6, 1883, at Glenwood, Lawrence County, KY, a son of William and Nancy Webb Cooksey, both natives of Kentucky. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Anna Miller Cooksey, 1 son, Fred Cooksey, U. s. Navy stationed somewhere in the South Pacific; 3 brothers, J. M. Cooksey, Grayson, KY, Mont Cooksey and B. B. Cooksey, both of Ashland, 5 sisters, Mrs. Jane Cunningham, Mrs. Frank T. Salyers and Mrs. Cecil Mullins, all of Ashland, Mrs. W. L. Webb, Glenwood, KY and Mrs. W. N. Shortridge of Catlettsburg and 1 grandson, Joe Bill Cooksey. Big Sandy News, Jan 12, 1945

 

CURNUTTE, George

George Curnutte, 77, of Louisa died at his home, here Saturday morning at 7 a.m. He was a retired C & O Railway employee and was born near Blaine, KY, son of the late Barry and Nancy Berry Curnutte. He had been ill for a week following a stroke. Funeral services were held Monday at 2 p.m. from the home on Sycamore St., and burial was made in the Pine Hill Cemetery with the Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. William W. Moore officiating. He was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Surviving are 2 daughters, Bessie Curnutte and Mrs. Effie Henson both at home, 1 sister and 1 brother and 3 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jan 5, 1945

 

DANIELS, Thomas, Jr.

Mrs. Nora Howell Daniels has received word that her husband, Sgt. Thomas Daniels, Jr., died from wounds received in France on Dec 1, 1944. Young Daniels had been in service for 4 years. He was stationed in Kodiak, Alaska for 2 years returning to the states last March. he was then stationed for a time in Colorado and Camp Croft, SC leaving the states again in October from Ft. Meade, Md. Before entering the service he made his home with Mrs. Maude Hammonds of Glenwood. He was a son of Thomas Daniels of Fort Gay. His wife, Mrs. Nora Daniels, makes her home with her aunt at Glenwood, KY. Big Sandy News, Jan 26, 1945

 

DEAN, Gus

Gus Dean, 75, died Tuesday morning at 1:13 a.m. in a local hospital. Mr. dean had been living with his nephew. Dr. L. S. Hayes of Louisa since last April. He was born in Irad, Lawrence County, but since 1908 had been living in Ohio, residing at Hilliards and Columbus, where he was employed at the Columbus Bolt Works. A son of the late Riley and Emily Elizabeth Walter Dean, Mr. Dean is survived by 1 daughter, Mrs. George Moore of Columbus, OH, a grandson, Eugene Hubert, with the U. S. Army in the Pacific; 2 sisters, Mrs. Effie Gram of Trinity, KY and Mrs. Belva Barrett of Louisa and Big Sandy News, Jan 26, 1945

 

FYFFE, Pvt. Harold

Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Skaggs of Louisa, received a telegram that their foster son, Pvt. Harold Fyffe was killed in action, Nov 18. He was in Belgium and had been in the service a year and 3 months. He had been overseas 6 weeks. Big Sandy News, Jan 5, 1945

 

GRAYSON, Evelyn (Ward)

Evelyn Grayson, 24, passed away at her home at Georges Creek Tuesday at 3:50 p.m. She was the wife of Estill Grayson and the daughter of Mr. Carley Ward and the late Mrs. Virgie Scarberry Ward. Funeral services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. from the home with the Rev. G. W. Walters officiating. Interment was made in the Preston Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, 1 son, Clarence Edward, her father, 1 sister, Mrs. D. D. Fortner of Kenova, WV, 3 brothers, Cecil Ward of route 1, Louisa and Willis and Otto Ward of Georges Creek. Big Sandy News, Jan 5, 1945

 

HENSLEY, Mary Jane

Mrs. Mary Jane Hensley, 88, died at 4:30 p.m. Saturday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. James Dickerson, 2024 Main St., Westwood, Ashland, after an illness of 3 days. Mrs. Hensley, a life-long resident of Boyd County, was the daughter of William and Frances hall Swearingen, both natives of Kentucky. She was the oldest member of the Westwood Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services were held at the Missionary Baptist Church, Westwood at 2 p.m. Tuesday with the Rev. Dam Rayburn, pastor officiating. Burial was made in Dixon Cemetery. Surviving, in addition to the daughter are a son, Millard Hensley, Buchanan, KY, 6 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jan 26, 1945

 

MOORE, Isaac Thompson

1877-1945

Isaac Thompson Moore, 67, Ashland, a former guard at Lock 29, died at his home Sunday at 5:30 p.m. He had been ill for 8 months. Mr. Moore was born in Lawrence County, KY, on May 27, 1877, a son of the late Jams and Phyna Thompson Moore, and moved to Ashland 10 years ago. He was a guard at the lock until ill health forced him to retired. Mr. Moore was a veteran of the Spanish-American war and a member of the Gospel Tabernacle. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Belle Moore, 2 sons, Oma and Chester Moore of Ashland, 2 daughters, Mrs. Esta Cordle and Mrs. Edna Dean Hall of Ashland and a sister, Mrs. Laura Ramey of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Jan 19, 1945

 

ROSE, Martha (Branham)

Mrs. Martha Rose, 59, wife of Andrew Rose, passed away at her home in Louisa Wednesday at 6:15 a.m. after an illness of 3 weeks. She had lived in Louisa for the past 5 months, living prior to that time at Lick Creek, 2 1/2 miles from Louisa. She was born at Chestnut, KY, the daughter of the late Joe and Nettie Duncan Branham. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Freewill Baptist Church with the Revs. William W. Moore and S. V. Ball officiating. Burial was made in the Miller Cemetery on Lick Creek. She is survived by her husband, 4 daughters, Mrs. Green Moore and Mrs. Thomas Sparks of Ashland, Mrs. Monroe Thompson of Louisa and Miss Martha Sue Rose at home; 6 sons, Joe, Earbie, Monroe and Paul of Louisa, John Rose of Huntington and Pvt. James Rose of the U. S. Army in France; 2 sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Stevens of Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Dock Thompson of Mattie; 3 brothers, John Branham of Ashland, Bascom Branham of Portsmouth and Russell Branham of Florida. Big  Sandy News, Jan 5, 1945

 

SKEEN, Alma (Crank)

Mrs. Alma Crank Skeen, 65, of route 4, Louisa, died Tuesday of last week at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Drew Ekers of route 1, Catlettsburg. The deceased was a daughter of Columbus and Katherine Dye Crank. She was a member of the Methodist Church. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2 pm. from the home with burial in the family cemetery. Surviving are her husband, Sam J. Skeens, 3 daughters, Mrs. Drew Ekers, route 1, Catlettsburg, Mrs. Jake Evans, Ashland, Mrs. F. J. Childers, Tulsa, OK, 1 son, Morris Skeen, Fort Gay, WV, 4 sisters, Mrs. Charles Carter route 4, Louisa, Mrs. John Compton, Gladys, KY, Mrs. Laura Blankenship, route 4, Louisa and Mrs. Della Collinsworth, Charleston, WV and 2 brothers, Chris Crank, Cannonsburg, KY and Jerry Crank of route 4, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jan 5, 1945

 

THOMAS, Rebecca Jane

Funeral services for Mrs. Rebecca Jane Thomas, 79, of Hurricane, WV, widow of Henry E. Thomas, who died at her home Monday, were held Wednesday at the Hurricane Baptist Church with the Rev. Dennis Wyrick of Huntington officiating. Surviving are 3 daughters, Mrs. W. S. Curnes of Huntington, Mrs. H.R. Glenn of Hurricane and Mrs. Thomas McKenzie of Columbus, OH; 5 sons, James, Robert L. John and Samuel Thomas of Buchanan, KY; 1 sister, Mrs. Cella Handley of Pilney, WV; 46 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jan 12, 1945

 

 

FEBRUARY 1945

 

BAKER, Gordon A.

Gordon A. Baker, 48, a former Huntington patrolman, died last Thursday at his home at Dayton, OH, where he was engaged in the manufacture of clothing. His remains were taken to Huntington for burial. Mr. Baker was born in Louisa, KY, and served as a captain in World War I. He was a member of the West Virginia state police for 6 years prior to joining the city police department. He was with the police force in Huntington for 7 years, leaving about 4 years ago. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Mae Carroll Baker, 1 daughter, Miss Elizabeth Baker, and 3 sons, Lieutenant Commander Gordon Baker, Jr., USN, overseas; Robert Baker at home, and Carroll Baker, on leave after serving overseas with the U. S. Marines Corps. Big Sandy News, Feb 23, 1945

 

BARKER, Harold

Sgt. Harold Barker, son of J. M. (Buddy) Barker of Martha, KY, was killed in action in Germany Jan 15, 1945, according to a telegram received from the War Department. He went into service in October 1942 and was stationed in California for 18 months. He left the States for overseas duty in October 1944. He is survived by his father; 1 sister, Mrs. Mary A. Hay of Columbus, OH, 5 brothers, Virgil, Dewey and Lundy Barker, all at home, Ernest Barker of Plain City, OH and Pvt. Lee O. Barker who is now serving in the U. S. Army somewhere in France. Big Sandy News, Feb 16, 1945

 

BOGGS, T. Sgt. Carl

Sgt. Carl Boggs, son of Mrs. Lillian Boggs and the late Curtis Boggs, Veteran of World War I, was killed in action in Germany Jan 3. T. Sgt. Boggs was a native Lawrence Countian. He went into the Army in 1942 and spent the winter of '43 at Anzio Beachhead. He was with the 179th Infantry, who fought their way into Rome last June 2nd. Big Sandy News, Feb 9,1945

 

BURKE, Leslie Hampton

Leslie Hampton Burke, 64, of Bramwell, WV, Sunday evening of a heart attack aboard Norfolk and Western Railway passenger train No. 16 while enroute to his home from Huntington. An employee of the Buckeye Coal & Coke, Co. of Bramwell, he had been visiting his mother, Mrs. Nannie B. Burke of Huntington. When passengers aboard the train noticed he was suffering an attack the train was stopped at Fort Gay and Dr. A. W. Bromley, official railway physician, was called form Louisa to attend him. However, the attack proved fatal before he could be given medical attention. Surviving in addition to his mother are 6 daughters, and a son, 3 brothers, H. M. and E. M. Burke of Huntington and C. A. Burke of Oak Hill and 2 sisters, Misses Mabel and Grace Burke of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Feb 23, 1945

 

BUSH, William A.

Pfc. William A. Bush, better known as "Ted", son of Mr. and Mrs. John Bush of Louisa, route 4, died Aug 27, 1944 in France as a result of cardiac arrhythmia. He had been overseas 4 months preceding his death. While in the States he was trained at Camp Grant, IL, Fort George G. Meade, MD and Fort Dix, NJ. Following is a letter to his mother from his commanding officer:  

6 Jan 1945

Dear Mrs. Bush

The staff of the 100th General Hospital has made arrangements for the reservation of a plot of ground located in the center of our present hospital site, to be known as Bush Square. This square is approximately two hundred and fifty by three hundred feet.. The following plaque is being erected dedicating this square to the memory of your son, Pfc. William A. Bush. "They have not gone, nor can they dwell apart; Who still hold place within some human heart." This Square is dedicated to the memory of Pfc. William A. Bush, 35658447, Louisa, KY, a member of the 100th General Hospital who died in the service of his country in Normandy, France on August 1944. A picture of the dedication ceremony will be forwarded to you when security regulations are relaxed. May I extend to you once again my sincere sympathy. It is my earnest hope that his memorial from the members of the 100th will serve in some small manner as a token of appreciation for your son's sacrifice to his county, and of our personal loss. Sincerely, S. F. Seeley, Colonel, MO Commanding. Big Sandy News, Feb 16 1945

 

CALDWELL, Myrtle Belle (Dixon)

Mrs. Myrtle Belle Dixon Caldwell, 64, widow of P. E. Caldwell, and mother of the Rev. Bert Caldwell, pastor of the Westmoreland Baptist Church, died at her home at Spring Haven, near Catlettsburg. A resident of Catlettsburg for 37 years, Mrs. Caldwell was born in Greenup Co, a daughter of Joel and Phoebe Dixon. She had lived in Boyd County for 50 years and was a charter member of the Missionary Baptist Church. She was the mother of Mrs. J. B. Damron of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Feb 23, 1945

 

COBURN, Wayne

Funeral services for Wayne Coburn, 88, of Louisa, KY, route 2, a veteran of the Spanish-American War, who died last week following an illness of a year, were held Sunday at the residence with the Rev.  Ed Lambert officiating. Burial was in the Franklin cemetery, Huntington. Mr. Coburn was native of Wayne County, WV, and was a son of the late James and Fannie Robertson Coburn. He is survived by the widow, Mrs. Nancy Ellen Coburn, and 3 daughters, Mrs. James Childers and Mrs. Jennie Williams, both of Louisa route 2 and Mrs. Joe Burchett of Cadmus, KY. Big Sandy News, Feb 9, 1945

 

COPLEY, Ali

Funeral services for Ali Copley, who died Wednesday at the home in Ashland after a brief illness were held at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the John Steen Funeral Home with Rev. Virgil L. Moore officiating. Burial was in Pine Hill Cemetery, Louisa. Mr. Copley was born in Wayne County, WV, and had resided in Ashland for the last 53 years. He was a member of the Louisa Methodist Church. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Dove McGue of Ashland and 1 brother, Rev. William Copley of Adams, KY. Big Sandy News, Feb 16, 1945

 

COPLEY, Elizabeth

Mrs. Elizabeth Copley, 56, wife of Joshua Copley of Route 1, Fort Gay, passed away Thursday at 1 p.m. after an illness of 9 months. She was a daughter of the late Taylor and Effie Biggs Thompson, native of Pike County. The funeral was held Sunday at 2 p.m. from the Bartram Chapel on Mill Creek. She is survived by her husband, 4 daughters, Mrs. Nellie Mae Copley and Mrs. T. R. Ward of route 1. Fort Gay, Mrs. Ollie Crabtree of Cleveland, OH, and Miss Helen Mae Copley at home; 2 sons, Radical and Dude Copley, at home, 2 sisters, Mrs. Alex Ray of Stone Coal, KY and Mrs. Radical Copley of Portsmouth, OH; 3 brothers, Taylor Thompson of Fort Gay, Andy Thompson of New Boston, OH and Richard Thompson of Webb. WV. Big Sandy News, Feb 2, 1945

 

DAMRON, JOHN D.

John D. Damron, 78, of Pleasant Ridge, Louisa, route 3, a retired farmer and merchant, died in a Louisa hospital, Monday at 5:15 a.m. after being ill for 1 week. Funeral services were conducted at the Louisa Baptist Church Wednesday at 2 p.m. by the Rev. J. C. Hager and burial was in Pine Hill Cemetery. Mr. Damron, a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Moses D. Damron had operated general stores at Irad, Fallsburg and Louisa, route 3. He had been a member of the Louisa Baptist Church for 40 years. Surviving are 8 daughters, Mrs. John Burton of Irad, Mrs. Mart Johns, Mrs. Curnutte, Mrs. Estill Thompson, and Mrs. Garred Peters, of Louisa, Mrs. H. H. Mayse, of Lexington, KY, Mrs. Conrad Carter of Stollings, WV, and Mrs. Conrad Storvers of Beckley, WV; 3 sons, Forrest and John D. Damron, Jr. of Louisa and Staff Sergeant Lucian Damron of Fort Knox, KY, 4 sisters, Mrs. Layne Whitman, Mrs. George Tinson, and Mrs. Duran Keel of Pikeville, KY, Mrs. Adam Damron of Yeager, KY, 3 brothers, Jim Damron of Penny, KY, Jerome Damron of Jackson, OH and Robert Damron of Yeager and 27 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. His wife, Mrs. Claudia Frasher Damron died in 1921. Big Sandy News, Feb 23, 1945

 

DOWDY, Nancy

Funeral services for Mrs. Nancy Dowdy, Bolts Fork, Boyd County, who died Tuesday. February 8th at her home after a long illness, were held Friday at 10 a.m. at the Ross Chapel. Burial was in the chapel cemetery. Mrs. Dowdy was born May 29, 1880, in Lawrence County, KY a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Large. She was a lifelong resident of Boyd County and a member of the Baptist Church. Surviving are the husband, Will Dowdy, 2 sons and 1 brother, 19 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Feb 16, 1945

 

FAULKNER, Herman A. Faulkner

War's infinite bitterness touched a 19 years old bride Monday when Mrs. Betty Elrod Faulkner of Maysville received the news that her husband, Technician Fifth Grade Herman A. Faulkner, 23, had made the supreme sacrifice in Belgium January 10. Cpl. Faulkner was last prominently in the news when on the evening of Jul 24, 1944, he married Betty Elrod, climaxing a romance that he it genesis on the campus of Union College. Their vows were heard by the bride's father, Capt. E. W. Elrod, who traveled by plane from Blackland Army Air Field, Waco, TX to perform the ceremony. A young man whose patriotism ran high, Cpl. Faulkner was one of 4 men in his Signal Corps company at his last station in the states who asked for transference to the infantry because he felt the need for his services was greatest there. He had made the request that if he were to become a casualty his last location in the states be withheld, being of the opinion that from such announcement information beneficial to the enemy would ensue. Cpl. Faulkner, overseas since last November, was a young man whose outstanding Christian character, fine intelligence and hig purpose caused him to be looked upon as an exemplar. Born November 26, 1921, Cpl. Faulkner was son of Roy L. Faulkner of Barboursville and the late Brilla Smith Faulkner, As a major in sociology he was graduated from Union College in Barboursville in 1942 and for a year thereafter taught history in the Barboursville high school. He left his instructional duties in March 1943 to enter the service. Mrs. Faulkner will be remembers in Louisa. She was a popular member of Louisa high school during the years when her father, the Rev. now Capt. E. W. Elrod, was pastor of First Methodist Church. Big Sandy news, Feb 2, 1945

 

KELLEY, Isaac, 77, passed away at his home at Webbville, January 31 at 5:10 a.m. following an illness of 2 weeks of pneumonia. He was a son of the late Frederick and Anna Little Kelley. He had been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church for 15 years. Funeral services were held Friday at 2 p.m. from the Holbrook School on Catt with interment in the Hayes Cemetery. His first wife, was the last Rebecca Hayes Kelley. The children of this marriage are 2 daughters, Mrs. Oscar Holbrook of Webbville and Mrs. Lizzie Parker of Kenova, WV. 4 sons, Gordon Kelly of Holden, WV, Ernest Kelley of Newcomerstown, OH, Willie Kelley of Columbus, OH, and Fred Kelley of Detroit, MI. He was married 15 years ago to Nannie Holbrook. From this marriage 2 daughters survive, Cora Lee, Martha and Essie Ellen, all at home; 4 sons, Harvey, Jimmie , Walter Ray and Roy Arnold, all at home. He is also survived by one brother, Alex Kelley of Grayson. Big Sandy News, Feb 9, 1945

 

KIRK, Frank A.

Frank A. Kirk, 48, former business man, died at a Huntington, WV hospital Friday at 6:30 p.m. after an illness of 19 days. Mr. Kirk, a son of the late John L. and Alice M. Cain Kirk, was born at Inez, KY. He operated a news stand here for 20 years, until 5 years ago when he retired. Short funeral services were held at the home in Louisa Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. The remains were removed to the home of a sister, Mrs. George W. Hale at Inez, where a second funeral service was held Monday at 2 p.m. Interment was made in the Kirk family cemetery near Inez with Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa and Rev.  W. Cecil Shepherd of Kermit, WV officiating. He is survived by the widow, the former Miss June Maynard,  1 sister, Mrs. George W. Hale of Inez, five brothers, E. W. Kirk, Cadmus, KY, Rev. L. T. Kirk, Kenova, WV, W. C. Kirk, South Charleston, WV, E. B. Kirk, Kermit, WV and E. T. Kirk, Huntington. Big Sandy News, Feb 16, 1945

 

LAKIN, Richard

Richard Lakin of the U. S. Army son of Mr. and Mrs. James Lakin of near Fort Gay, died of wounds somewhere in France according to a message received by his parents Monday. Mr. and Mrs. Lakin has another son in service, Lawrence Lakin, who is with the U. S. Army somewhere in the South Pacific. Big Sandy News, Feb 9, 1945

 

MEADE, Alvin Everett

The Rev. Alvin Everett Meade, 55 years old, pastor of the Missionary Baptist Church at Bypro, Floyd County, died at the Beaver Valley hospital, Martin, Tuesday of last week a victim of slatefall injuries sustained while working in the mine of the Clear Branch Mining Company, Ligon, on the preceding day. His chest and pelvis were crushed. Funeral services were conducted at Ligon with Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa officiating. The Rev. Meade was a native of Lawrence County, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Meade. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Della Meade, 7 sons and daughters, Wendell of the Army, Ft. McClellan, AL, Alvin Meade, Jr., with the army overseas, James H. Meade with the army in California, Mrs. Felix Hicks, Lackey, Wayne Meade, Anna Ruth and Mary Sue Meade, of Ligon, 7 brothers and sisters also survived. Big Sandy News, Feb 16, 1945

 

RIFFE, Waite D.

Waite D. Riffe, 50, highly esteemed Louisa businessman, passed away Tuesday morning, February 13, at his home on Main Cross St in Louisa, following an illness of heart trouble since December 22. He had been a merchant for 32 years with the Wellman and Riffe Grocery and Hardware Store. He was born at Yatesville, KY a son of the late John B. and Loudema Wilson Riffe. He had lived in Louisa for the past 40 years. Mr. Riffe had been a member of the Louisa Christian Church for the past 38 years and was a veteran of World War I. Funeral services were conducted Thursday at 2:30 p.m. from the Christian Church with the Elba Martin of Grayson officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery, with the W. O. Johnson Post American Legion performing their ritual. He  is survived by his widow, Mrs. Ethel Wellman Riffe, 2 daughters, at home; 1 sister, Mrs. Jesse Hall of St. Petersburg, Fla., and 3 brothers, Austin Riffe, of Van Lear, KY,  Damer of Yatesville and H. D. of Cadmus, KY. Big Sandy News, Feb 16, 1945

 

ROSE, Kenneth Ray

Kenneth Ray Rose, 3 years old son of Woodrow and Susie Griffith Rose, passed away at the home in Louisa Tuesday at 5:30 a.m. after a week's illness. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m.  from the home of Joe Rose on route 4. Burial was made in the Miller Cemetery with the Rev. S. B. Ball officiating. Surviving are the mother and father, 2 sisters, and 1 brother. Big Sandy News, Feb 9, 1945

 

SEE, James E.

James E. See, 80, prominent retired farmer, of Louisa, route 2, passed away Monday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. William Little. He was a son of the late John and Sarah Wellman See. He had been a member of the Methodist Church for 50 years. Funeral services were held Thursday from the See Chapel with the Rev.  G. R. Bishop officiating. His wife, Minnie H. See passed away Dec 18, 1944. He is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. George Wellman of Columbus, OH and Mrs. William Little, of route 2,  Fort Gay; 1 son, Hansel See of Pittsburgh, PA, 3 sisters, Mrs. Mollie Peck of Isaqua, WA, Mrs. Ida Raines of Fort Gay, Mrs. Kizzie Robertson of Fort Gay, route 1. Big Sandy News, Feb 2, 1945

 

STANSBERRY, Harry L.

Pfc. Harry L. Stansberry, son of Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Stansberry of Louisa, route 2, was killed in action Jan 15th in Northern Italy. Pfc. Stansberry was a student at Louisa high school before entering service. He had served 9 months in the front lines in the infantry. "Red Bull" Division. Following is the letter received by his mother from his commanding officer.

19 January 1945

Dear Mrs. Stansberry:

As battalion commander of your son's unit I wish to express, in behalf of the men and officers of this command, our deep and sincere sympathy in your great loss. We share with you in your sorrow. Harry died of wounds received from fragments of a mortar shell at the front lines. While in a defensive position in the mountains of Northern Italy, his company was in a holding position Big Sandy News, Feb 23, 1945

 

STREITENBERGER, Floyd E.

Mr. and Mrs. Levi Streitenberger of Stockdale, OH, formerly of Lawrence County, have received a telegram from the War Department advising them of the death of their son, Pvt. Floyd E. Streitenberger on Dec 9 over Burma. They had previously received word that he was missing in action since that date. Pvt. Streitenberger was born Jun 14 (Flag Day),  1924. He entered the service Apr 9, 1943. Although in the Army, Pvt. Streitenberger had volunteered for service with the air corps. He had informed his relatives that he was dropping provisions and supplies by parachute to the boys on front lines where there was no other means of supply. Streitenberger was chute-triggerman. He leaves 2 sisters, Mrs. William Thompson of Stockdale, OH, and Vivian at home and a brother Brooks Streitenberger of Dayton, OH. Big Sandy News, Feb 16, 1945

 

THOMPSON, R. A. "Bob"

Funeral services for R. A. "Bob" Thompson, merchant and farmer of Fullers, KY, who died Thursday evening at his home were held Sunday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. at the home, with the Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating. Burial was made in the Thompson Cemetery, Horseford Road. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Ida Hatten Thompson, 1 son, Allen Thompson, U. S. Army in foreign service, and 2 sisters, Mrs. Albert Elkins, Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Hobart Samson, Pittsburg, PA. Big Sandy News, Feb 23, 1945

 

WEBB, Pvt. George Milton

Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Webb have received word that their son, Pvt. George Milton, has been killed in action in Belgium. He had been in service for a year. He was a senior in the Webbville high school before entering service. He has 2 brothers, in service. Sgt. Jack in Italy and Pfc. Delmar in New Guinea. While in high school Pvt. Webb was a member of the basketball team and an active 4-H club member for 4 years. Big Sandy News, Feb 2, 1945

 

YOUNG, Sherman

Pvt. Sherman Young, 29, husband of Mrs. Ovoca Young of Louisa, was killed in action in Germany on Dec 19, 1944 according to at telegram received by his wife from the War Department. He had previously been reported missing in action. Pvt. Young entered service Jun 1, 1944 and received his training at Camp Blanding, FL. He went overseas last November. He is survived by his wife, 3 sons, Eddie Lee, Gary Gordon and Kenneth Dayle; his mother, Mrs.. Rachel Young, of Louisa, 3 brothers, Lonnie Young of Louisa, Henry Young of Prestonsburg, and Everett Young of Columbus, OH, 6 sisters, Mrs. Fred Burke, Mrs. I. W. Carter of Ashland, Mrs. C. L. Carter and Mrs. Nolda Adkins of Louisa, Mrs. Delphia Lemaster of Flat Gap and Mrs. Roberta McKenzie of Paintsville. Big Sandy News, Feb 2, 1945

 

 

MARCH 1945

 

AUSTIN, George E.

George E. Austin, 53, of San Francisco, formerly of this county, died at his home last week and was buried in San Francisco. It was learned her Friday. Mr. Austin was born in Potter and had resided for 20 years in San Francisco where he was engaged in the real estate business. Surviving are the widow, 1 daughter, Mrs. Frank Mueller of California; 5 sisters, Mrs. Joe Bell and Mrs. L. E. Nicely of California, Mrs. Wayne Lycans of Fort Gay, Mrs. E. W. Bowers of Huntington and Mrs. Fred Austin of Widen, WV and 1 brother, H. S. Austin of Huntington. Mr. Austin was well known in Lawrence County and always enjoyed seeing his many friends when he returned here for vacations each year. He will be remembered by every one for the many contributions of books which he made to the Pack Horse Library in memory of his mother. Big Sandy News, Mar 2, 1945

 

BOGGS, Edith

Funeral services for Miss Edith Boggs, 20, 1314 South Thirteenth St., Ashland, second victim of a shooting which occurred Thursday in front of her home was held Monday at 1 p.m. at the Bolt's Fork Holiness Church, Boyd County, with the Rev. Herbert French officiating. Burial was in the See Cemetery, Lawrence County. Miss Boggs died Saturday evening in an Ashland hospital of 3 bullet wounds inflicted by her sweetheart, Jerry Lee Crowder, 19, as the climax of a quarrel. Crowder then shot himself through the head and died en route to the hospital. Miss Boggs was born in Boyd County, a daughter of Nolia Holbrook Boggs, who survived, and the late William Boggs. She had attended Boyd County and Catlettsburg schools. Surviving are the mother, another brother, Carl Boggs, Chester, PA, and four sisters, Mrs. Henry McGinnis, Baltimore, MD, Mrs. Ed Rogers, Crystal, KY, Mrs. Arnold Huff, Ironton, OH and Mrs. Fred Elswick, Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Mar 2, 1945

 

CANTERBURY, Anna

The body of a baby recovered Wednesday at Dam 34 on the Ohio river at Chillo, 30 miles east of Cincinnati, was identified today as that of 18 month old Anna Canterbury, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Canterbury of nearby Naugatuck. The parents first learned of the recovery in a newspaper story saying the body was clad in a red snowsuit, and had a bandage around the right arm at the elbow. The child drowned in the Tug River, Jan 14 when a boat capsized. The parents, the baby and several other persons were returning from a church service at the time. All but the baby were rescued. Big Sandy News, Mar 2, 1945

 

CRUM, Matt

Matt Crum, 79, one of Wayne County's pioneer citizens, died Sunday morning at 2:30 a.m. at his home on Missouri Branch. The former coal loader and tunnel watchman was highly respected in the community in which he lived and where he spent practically all his lifetime. Born in Lawrence County, KY on Oct 15, 1865, Crum's parents soon after moved to Wayne county where Crum spent his boyhood days. He lived in Mingo County for some time, working as a coal loader and later as a tunnel watchman at Sprigg for the Norfolk & Western Railway Company. Big Sandy News, Mar 9, 1945

 

CUNNINGHAM, Linda Lou

Linda Lou Cunningham, 2 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Cunningham, route 4, Louisa, died at 9:15 p.m. Saturday in King's Daughters' Hospital after a 2 weeks illness. Funeral services were conducted Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at the home of the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Milton Brumfield, route 4, Louisa and interment was made in the Brumfield family cemetery. Surviving in addition to the parents are the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Cunningham, Sr., route 4, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Mar 16, 1945

 

FERGUSON, Lindsey G.

Lindsey G. Ferguson, 90 years old, died Sunday at the home of a former daughter-in-law, Mrs. John Donathan of Huntington, WV. Funeral services were held at Huntington on Tuesday. He is survived by one son, Thomas Ferguson of Columbus, OH; 2 daughters, Mrs. Gordon Kimball of Columbus, OH and Mrs. Clara Sesikes of Cleveland, OH; 1 brother, N. B. Ferguson of Huntington, WV, 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Mar 2, 1945

 

FRASURE, John B.

Cpl. John B. Frasure, 27, son of Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Frasure of Wabash, IN, formerly of Louisa, was killed in action in France, February 2nd the War Department has notified his parents. Cpl. Frasure was living in Louisa at the time of his induction into the armed forces in 1942. He went overseas in September 1944 and had seen action in Belgium, Germany and France. He is survived by his parents, 2 brothers, Dr. A. L. Frasure of Peru, IN, and Arthur Frasure of Wabash, IN, 1 sister, Mrs. Charles Moore of Lock Ave., Louisa. Big Sandy News, Mar 9, 1945

 

FYFFE, Malinda (Mabry)

Mrs. Malinda Mabry Fyffe, 80, died at her home at Martha Sunday at 3:10 p.m. following an illness of 3 weeks. She was born at Ordinary, KY, a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Mabry. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 3 p.m. at her home at Martha and burial was made in the family cemetery there. She is survived by her husband, S. H. Fyffe, 2 daughters, Mrs. Clyde Skaggs of Barnrock, KY, and Miss Annie Fyffe at home and 2 sons, Jack Fyffe of Louisa, route 4, and Henry Fyffe of Six Lake, MI. Big Sandy News. Mar 23, 1945

 

GIBSON, Mary

Mary Gibson, 66, died at her home at Detroit, MI, Mar 13 at 5 p.m. She was a daughter of the late Dr. John and Alice Burgess Swetnam of Louisa and Georges Creek. Funeral services were held Monday Mar 19 at 10:30 a.m. at the Swetnam cemetery at Georges Creek. Surviving are 1 brother, E. R. Swetnam of Happy, KY and 2 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Mar 23, 1945

 

HOLBROOK, Woodrow

WATTS, Sylvester

Mrs. Alka Copley Trimboll, 26, Fort Gay, WV is now in Memorial Hospital in Huntington recovering from a bullet wound in the neck allegedly suffered Sunday morning in a shooting fray here near the Madison Street railroad crossing in which Private (First Class)  Sylvester Watts, 23, was slain by Woodrow Holbrook, 24, who shortly afterward killed himself, according to police reports. A third and unidentified man who was in the car with Mrs. Trimboll and Watts fled from the shooting scene, the woman told authorities. According to evidence patched together by Sheriff Arch Thompson of Lawrence County, KY and Inspector Don Maynard of the Huntington police department, Holbrook drove his car alongside the automobile driven by Mrs. Trimboll and demanded where she and her two male companions were going.

 

"We're going home soon", Mrs. Trimboll said she replied, and Holbrook began firing into her car, one bullet killing Private Watts. As the unidentified man fled and Holbrook drove away, Mrs. Trimboll, suffering from a bullet lodged in her neck, removed Private Watts' body from behind the wheel and drove to the Louisa hospital where the soldier was pronounced dead. Mrs. Timboll was transferred to Memorial Hospital and shortly afterward authorities bound Holbrook's body in the alley behind the Wells Motor Company where he had been employed since his discharge from the Navy several months ago. He had been shot in the head, Thompson said, and a small bore target pistol lay beside him.

 

Pvt. Sylvester Watts, 23, victim of the shooting, who died Sunday morning at 2 a.m. was a son of Cecil Watts of Fort Gay and the late Beulah Fae Thompson Watts. He had been serving in the U. S. army Air Corps in Panama for the past year. He was home on a recuperation furlough at the time of his death. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Fort Gay Baptist Church with the Rev. J. C. Hager and the Rev. Audra Lester officiating. Burial was made in the Bartram Cemetery with the W. O. Johnson Post American Legion performing the military rites. He is survived by his father, 1 son, Cecil Daniel Watts, a grandmother, Mrs. Lutie Ball of Fort Gay, 1 sister, Maxine, at home and 1 brother, Sandford Earl Watts of Chicago.

 

Woodrow Holbrook, 23, who did the shooting, was a son of John and Kitty Hayes Holbrook of Louisa. He had been a mechanic at the Wells Motor Company for the past 7 years except for several months service in the U. S. Navy. Funeral services were held Wednesday from the Curtright Funeral Home with the Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery with the W. O. Johnson Post American Legion conducting their military ritual. He is survived by his parents and five sisters, Mrs. Oscar Combs of Route 1, Catlettsburg, Mrs. W. M. Adkins of route 3, Louisa, Mrs. Alonzo Queen, Mrs. Heber Holbrook and Mrs. Blanchard Carroll of route 4, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Mar 30,1945

 

KINSTLER, Earl

Earl Kinstler, 54 years old, of Lucasville, OH, who died at his home last Saturday after suffering a heart attack on Friday was buried in the Fort Gay Cemetery Wednesday. Mr. Kinstler, a son of the late Jacob and Martha Wheeler Kinstler, spent his early life in Fort Gay and was a veteran of World War I. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Opal Vinson Kinstler, 3 children, 2 sisters, Mrs. Walter B. Yates of Kenova and Mrs. Myrtle Welch of Rittman, OH, and 4 brothers, James B. Kinstler of Louisa, KY, Frank Kinstler of Minneapolis and Sam and Laban Kinstler of Kenova. Big Sandy News, Mar 16, 1945

 

KIRK, Lindsey Albert

Lindsey Albert Kirk, 41 years old mine brakeman for Contractor D. H. Pritchard of Delbarton, was killed around midnight last night when caught on top of a mine car and rolled against the ceiling of the mine. The Delbarton miner was employed by Pritchard last May 15, and prior to that time he was employed with the Crystal Block Coal Co. He was a member of Local UMW Union 0495 at Delbarton. Born on Feb 7, 1904, he was a son of John H. and Elizabeth Hardebeck Kirk of Louisa, KY. His wife, Mrs. Corrine Frazier Kirk, is a native of Martin County, KY. Big Sandy News, Mar 2, 1945

 

MAY, Floyd

Floyd May, 83 years old and a resident of Draffin, Pike county, for the past half century, died at his home last Saturday. Death was due to a heart ailment. Mr. May had been seriously ill for about a month. Born on Pond Creek, he was the son of the late John H. May. He was a farmer and was affiliated with the Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Margaret May, 3 sons, Thomas, George, and Willie May, all of Draffin; 6 daughters, Mrs. Cordia Senter, Mrs. Elzie Lee, Mrs. Melster Once and Mrs. Calsie Elswick, all of Draffin, Mrs. Dolla Clevinger of Belcher, and Mrs. Sarah Elswick of Lawrence County. A brother, Harman May, of Lawrence county, also survives. Big Sandy News, Mar 30,1 945

 

PACK, Emma Slone Davis

Mrs. Emma Slone Davis pack, 75, died Thursday at her home, 1624 Center Street, Catlettsburg, after an extended illness. Mrs. Pack was a native of Lawrence County, KY, and had been a resident of Catlettsburg for the past 20 years. She is survived by a son, Ernest Davis of Ashland, a stepson, Fred Pack of Louisa, KY, 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Mar 9, 1945

 

PFOST, W. B.

B. Pfost, 67, a resident of Louisa route 3, for 52 yeas, died Sunday at 10 a.m. in a local hospital. Mr. Pfost was a retired farmer. His wife, Mrs. Ida Bush Pfost died in 1942. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Myrtle Chapel at Five Forks by the Rev. William W. Moore and burial was made in the family cemetery. Surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. Oscar Fernquist of Columbus, OH and Mrs. Charles Arrington of Louisa and 4 sons, E. a. Pfost of Louisa route 3, J. E. Pfost of Salt Lick, KY, J. G. Pfost of Shelbyville, KY and C. H. Pfost of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Mar 23, 1945

 

POE, Jay E.

One person was fatally injured and 2 others suffered minor injuries in an automobile collision which occurred at 2:30 p.m. Saturday near the junction of Westwood Road and Highway 23 west of Ashland. Jay E. Poe, 28, of Louisa, route 4, a Clayton and Lambert worker and passenger in one of the automobiles was pronounced dead upon arrival at King's Daughters' Hospital after he was rushed there in a Steen ambulance. He suffered a fractured skull. Another passenger, Billy Jean Poe. cousin of the victim, suffered minor cuts about the head and body bruises. Highway Patrolmen Courtney Dalton and Cpl. Paul Motley, of the Ashland highway patrol barracks, who investigated the accident, said that Seaman Elmer Ray Nunley, Catlettsburg, U. S. Navy, home on leave and driver of the auto in which Poe was fatally injured, collided with an auto driven Bert Childers also of Catlettsburg.

 

Dalton and Nunley was enroute to the Clayton-Lambert plant with workers going on the afternoon shift when the car driven by Childers pulled into the highway from the Westwood road driving east. The patrolman said Nunley, sensing he was about to collide with the Childers car applied his brakes and in so doing slid and caught the front end of the Childers car. Mrs. Childers and their young child were passengers in the Childers auto. the child received minor injuries. Childers immediately swore to a warrant before Magistrate Henry Hedrick at Catlettsburg charging Nunley with voluntary manslaughter. Nunley posted bon of $1000 for his appearance at an examining trial Tuesday at 10 a.m. in Magistrate's court and was released. Poe was born Oct 7, 1916 at Hulett, KY. He was a member of the   Big Sandy News, Mar 30,1945

 

RICE, John T.

John T. Rice, 86, a retired carpenter, died at the home of a daughter, Mrs. E. A. Davis, 635 Gartrell St. at 10 a.m. Friday after an illness of 3 weeks. His wife, Mrs. Eliza Ann Clay Rice preceded him in death Oct 5, 1923. Mr. Rice had made his home with his daughter for the last 8 months, coming here from Detroit, MI. He retired from his trade 15 years ago. Mr. Rice was born in Lawrence County, KY, a son of James K. and Delilah Rice, both native of Kentucky. He was a member of the Fallsburg Methodist church. Surviving are the daughter, 3 sons, Elmer and Charles K. Rice, both of Detroit, and Jay Rice of Glendale, CA, 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Five of the grandchildren are members of the armed forces. Big Sandy News, Mar 2, 1945

 

ROBERTS, Benson F

Benson F. Roberts, 57, of Blaine, KY died in a Louisa hospital Saturday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. following an illness of 1 month. Mr. Roberts, a son of the late Dr. Allen T. and Laura Arrington Roberts, had spent his entire life at Blaine. Funeral services were conducted Monday at 2 p.m. at the residence. Burial was made in the Burton Cemetery at Blaine. The body was removed from the Curtright Funeral Home to his home at Blaine at 10 a.m. Sunday. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Ora B. Fraley, 1 daughter, Betty Jean Roberts, at home, 3 sons, Private Allen T. Roberts, U. S. Army in Holland, Sergeant John B. Roberts, U. S. Army in France and Jackie B. Roberts at home. Big Sandy News, Mar 16, 1945

 

SEAGRAVES, Robert

A heart attack resulted in the sudden death Saturday evening in Matewan, WV, of Robert Seagraves, 56, employee of the Red Jacket Coal Corporation. Seagraves, who resided at Red Jacket, was a native of Lawrence County, KY, and was a son of the Joe Henry and Eddie Belle (Lyons) Seagraves. Survivors include the following children: George B. of Chillicothe, OH, John of Ragland, Mrs. Alice Wheeler of Puritan Mines, Pfc. Ezie and Pvt. J. T. Seagraves, stationed in France, Mrs. Laura Belle Runyon of Delbarton and George, Jimmy, Julius, Jessie and Delores of Delbarton. Big Sandy News, Mar 9, 1945

 

SKAGGS, Phillip

Mr. and Mrs. Lee Skaggs of Louisa received a telegram from the War Department Wednesday evening Mar 28, informing them that their son, Cpl. Phillip E. Skaggs, USMCR, was killed in action Feb 28 at Iwo Jima volcanic island. in the performance of his duty. He was buried in the Fourth Marine Division cemetery at Iwo Jima. Before entering service in the Marines in 1944, Phillip was a student in the Louisa high school where he was popular with the faculty as well as the student body. He had recently written to Mr. Boyd, principal of the school, that he planned to reenter school as soon as he was released from service. Big Sandy News, Mar 30, 1945

 

VANHOOSE, Charley

Charley Vanhoose, 65 years old, of Mt. Tabor's Creek near Fort Gay, a former employee of the Norfolk & Western Railway Co. for 30 years, who died Sunday at 10 p.m. at his home, was buried in the Ferguson cemetery following funeral services Wednesday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Emory Bellomy of Fort Gay, Mr. VanHoose was a cook for the bridge and building department of the N & W until his retirement a year ago. He was the son of the late Billie and Ella VanHoose of Mt. Tabor's Creek. His wife, Mrs. Berdie Jean VanHoose died 5 years ago. Surviving in addition to Mrs. Bellomy are another daughter, Mrs. John Ellis of Prichard, route 1, 3 sons, Peter VanHoose of Prichard, Robert VanHoose of Freedman, KY, Sherman VanHoose of Chambersburg, PA, 1 step son, Clarence Skeens of Portsmouth, OH, 2 sisters, Mrs. John Loar of Fort Gay and Mrs. Lonnie Lynch of Cincinnati, and a brother, Clarence VanHoose of Logan County. Big Sandy News, Mar 2, 1945

 

WATTS, Sylvester

Mrs. Alka Copley Trimboll, 26, Fort Gay, WV is now in Memorial Hospital in Huntington recovering from a bullet wound in the neck allegedly suffered Sunday morning in a shooting fray here near the Madison Street railroad crossing in which Private (First Class)  Sylvester Watts, 23, was slain by Woodrow Holbrook, 24, who shortly afterward killed himself, according to police reports. A third and unidentified man who was in the car with Mrs. Trimboll and Watts fled from the shooting scene, the woman told authorities. According to evidence patched together by Sheriff Arch Thompson of Lawrence County, KY and Inspector Don Maynard of the Huntington police department, Holbrook drove his car alongside the automobile driven by Mrs. Trimboll and demanded where she and her two male companions were going.

 

"We're going home soon", Mrs. Trimboll said she replied, and Holbrook began firing into her car, one bullet killing Private Watts. As the unidentified man fled and Holbrook drove away, Mrs. Trimboll, suffering from a bullet lodged in her neck, removed Private Watts' body from behind the wheel and drove to the Louisa hospital where the soldier was pronounced dead. Mrs. Timboll was transferred to Memorial Hospital and shortly afterward authorities bound Holbrook's body in the alley behind the Wells Motor Company where he had been employed since his discharge from the Navy several months ago. He had been shot in the head, Thompson said, and a small bore target pistol lay beside him.

 

Pvt. Sylvester Watts, 23, victim of the shooting, who died Sunday morning at 2 a.m. was a son of Cecil Watts of Fort Gay and the late Beulah Fae Thompson Watts. He had been serving in the U. S. army Air Corps in Panama for the past year. He was home on a recuperation furlough at the time of his death. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Fort Gay Baptist Church with the Rev. J. C. Hager and the Rev. Audra Lester officiating. Burial was made in the Bartram Cemetery with the W. O. Johnson Post American Legion performing the military rites. He is survived by his father, 1 son, Cecil Daniel Watts, a grandmother, Mrs. Lutie Ball of Fort Gay, 1 sister, Maxine, at home and 1 brother, Sandford Earl Watts of Chicago.

 

Woodrow Holbrook, 23, who did the shooting, was a son of John and Kitty Hayes Holbrook of Louisa. He had been a mechanic at the Wells Motor Company for the past 7 years except for several months service in the U. S. Navy. Funeral services were held Wednesday from the Curtright Funeral Home with the Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery with the W. O. Johnson Post American Legion conducting their military ritual. He is survived by his parents and five sisters, Mrs. Oscar Combs of Route 1, Catlettsburg, Mrs. W. M. Adkins of route 3, Louisa, Mrs. Alonzo Queen, Mrs. Heber Holbrook and Mrs. Blanchard Carroll of route 4, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Mar 30,1945

 

WELLMAN, Venia (Thompson)

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday for Mrs. Venia Thompson Wellman, 48, of Salt Petre, WV, who died last Thursday. Services were held at the Lynch Chapel in Salt Petre with interment in the Lynch Cemetery. The daughter of James H. and Rebecca Pauley Thompson, she was a member of the Methodist Church 23 years. She is survived by her husband, Earl Wellman, her parents, 3 daughters, Mrs. Ray Hardwick of Fort Gay, WV, Hester and Mavis Thompson at home; 4 sons, Private First Class Arthur Wellman, overseas, Seaman First Class Ernest in the South Pacific, Gortha and Vernon at home; 3 sisters, Mrs. Robert Mann of Pinson Creek, WV, Mrs. Kenneth Ratcliff of Williamson, Mrs. Earl Caudill of Fort Gay, 4 brothers, Walter Thompson of Fort Gay, WV, Kelly Thompson of Waverly, OH, Boyd Thompson of Echo, WV, and Charles of Coalton, WV.  Big Sandy News, Mar 9, 1945

 

YORK, Elizabeth (Kitchen)

Elizabeth Kitchen York, 33, of Torchlight, KY, passed away Monday Mar 19 at 2:30 a.m. at a Huntington hospital following an operation. A former resident of Louisa, she had been a member of the First Methodist Church for 17 years. Funeral services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. at the First Methodist Church in Louisa with the Rev. O. C. Seevers, Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Interment was made in the Pine Hill Cemetery. Surviving are her husband, Taylor York, 1 son, Fred Donald, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Kitchen, 1 sister, Mrs. Bill Chaffin of Louisa, 4 brothers, Millard Kitchen of Van, WV, Chester Kitchen of Louisa, Tivis Kitchen of Vandalia, OH and Cpl. Arthur Kitchen in the Pacific; 2 half brothers, George Hamilton of Ironton, OH and Willie Hamilton of Yatesville, KY. Big Sandy News, Mar 23, 1945

 

APRIL 1945

 

 

BALL, Oscar

Oscar Ball, 52 years old farmer of Ellen, KY, died at a Veteran's hospital Wednesday Apr 25. He was a son of the late John Wesley Ball and Mrs. Kitty Curnutte  Ball. The body arrived in Louisa Friday morning and will remain at the Curtright Funeral Home until 9 a.m. Saturday. Funeral services will be held at the Ball Cemetery at Dry Ridge at 10 a.m. Saturday conducted by the Rev. S. B. Ball. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Pearlie Thompson Ball, 2 daughters, Mrs. Hayward Burton of Columbus, OH and Betty Lou at home, 4 sons, Clyde Raymond, Junior, Eugene, and Johnny all at home, his mother, Mrs. Kitty Curnutte Ball of Louisa, 1 sister, Mrs. Edith Griffith of Louisa and 1 brother, McKinley Ball of Point Pleasant, WV. Big Sandy News, Apr 27, 1945

 

BURTON, R. C.

C. Burton, 66, well known resident here for 26 years, died Tuesday at 1 p.m. at his home. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, Apr 29, at 2:30 p.m. at the Freewill Baptist Church, where he was a member for 30 years, and burial will be in Pine Hill Cemetery with graveside rites by the Masonic lodge. The Rev. William W. Moore, the Rev. L. M. Rogers and the Rev. Walter L. Hooper, will officiate. Mr. Burton was born in Blaine, KY, a son of the late Davis and Rebecca Burton. He lived in Johnson County, KY for many years before coming to Louisa, where he engaged in the hardware business. He was a farmer before his retirement several years ago. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Ida Mae Murry Burton, a daughter, Mrs. Kash Ledford of Louisa and a sister, Mrs. D. V. Meade of Ashland, KY, route 2. Big Sandy News. Apr 27,1945

 

CAREY, Charles W.

Charles W. Carey, 61, passed away at a Lexington hospital Wednesday following an illness of 3 months. He was born in Gallup, KY, a son of the late William and Emily Burgess Carey. He had lived in Louisa practically all of his life and was well known throughout the county. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. from the Curtright Funeral Home and interment will be made in Rose Hill Cemetery at Ashland, KY. The body was removed Thursday afternoon from the funeral home to the residence to remain until being returned to the Curtright Funeral Home Saturday at 12:30. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Carrie Swetnam Carey, 1 daughter, Mrs. James B. Shelton of Catlettsburg, KY, 1 son, Lieut. William Milton Carey now somewhere in the European war zone, 4 sisters, Mrs. C. W. McDonald and Mrs. D. J. Burchett of Louisa, Mrs. J. J. Johnson of Frankfort, KY and Mrs. George B. Roberts of Memphis, TN; 2 brothers, Lys Carey of Louisa and M. F. Carey of Lexington, KY. Big Sandy News, Apr 6, 1945

 

COBURN, Powell W.

Powell W. Coburn, 51, Ashland, brother of Mrs. Henry Osborn of Louisa, a retired carpenter, died at his residence Thursday morning after an illness of the past 2 years. Mr. Coburn, who previous to his retirement had been employed by the American Rolling Mill Co for 16 years was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and had been a resident of Ashland for 18 years. Big Sandy News, Apr 13, 1945

 

HUTCHINSON, L. N.

N. Hutchinson, 76, succumbed Friday at 4:30 a.m. at his residence at Fallsburg after an illness of the past 6 months. He was a son of the late Vint and Susan Lakin Hutchinson. Funeral rites were conducted Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at the home with the Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Allie Dilley Hutchinson and 1 sister, Mrs. Eliza Collier of Fallsburg. Big Sandy News, Apr 27, 1945

 

HOGGE, Byron

Byron Hogge, of Marengo, OH, died Apr 12 at a hospital in Mt. Gilley, OH. He was an employee of the Pennsylvania Railway Company and a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. Surviving are his wife, Pearl Hogge of Marengo, and a daughter, Laura Lee Hogge of Louisa, KY, also five brothers. Big Sandy News, Apr 20, 1945

 

JOHNSON, Lucian Burns

Second Lieut. Lucian Burns Johnson, 22, of Kenova, former Marshall College student, was killed in action on Iwo Jima during the storming of the island by his Marine division, according to a telegram from the Navy Department received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L. B. Johnson of Kenova. Lieut. Johnson was a graduate of Ceredo-Kenova High with the class of 1939 and attended Marshall in 1940-41. He was pledged to Phi Tau Alpha fraternity. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in June 1942, took his training at Parris Island, SC and went overseas in November 1942. He returned to the United States several months later and took officer's training at Quantico, VA where he received his commission as second lieutenant. He went back overseas almost immediately after graduation. He was a grandson of Mrs. L. S. Johnson of Louisa and the late Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Moore of Kenova. Big Sandy News, Apr 13, 1945

 

KAZEE, Clyde

Clyde Kazee, 42, an employee of the Bendix Corporation at South Bend, IN, died Apr 11 of a heart attack. The body was brought to the home of Arthur Boggs at Blaine on the 14th. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday Apr 15 conducted by the Rev. Herman Ross. He is survived by his father, Frank Kazee, of South Bend, IN, 3 sisters, Mrs. Frank Elliott, Canton, OH, Mrs. Howard Brown, New Boston, OH, Mrs. Fred Heeter, Mishawake, IN and 1 brother, Claude Kazee, Los Angeles, CA. Big Sandy News, Apr 27,1 945

 

LYCAN, Adolph

Adolph (Buster) Lycan, 36 years of age, died in a local hospital Wednesday, Apr 3 at 12:40 a.m. Mr. Lycan who had been employed for sometime at the Ohio Boxwood Co. at Rittman, OH had been at his home in Fort Gay for the past month recuperating from a nervous breakdown. He was born at Fort gay, route 1, a son of the late Consie Lycan and Mrs. Louary Wilson Lycan. Funeral services were held Friday, Apr 6 at 11 a.m. at the Big Hurricane Baptist Church conducted by Rev. James Akers, pastor of the church, and Rev. William W. Moore of Louisa. Interment will be made in the Lycan family cemetery. The body was removed from the Curtright Funeral Home in Louisa to the home of a brother, L. L. Lycan, in Fort Gay on Wednesday evening. He is survived by his mother, his widow, Mrs. Iris Boyes Lycan, 1 daughter, Lois Carol, 5 sisters, Mrs. Vernon King of Oriskney, VA, Mrs. Burgess Hatton and Mrs. Harlan Hatton of Rittman, OH, Mrs. T. H. Hatton of Prichard, WV and Mrs. Virgil Collinsworth of Dayton, OH; 6 brothers, L. L. Lycan of Fort Gay, WV, Gordan Lycan of Dayton, OH, Goodwin Lycan of Barkley, WV, Consie Lycan, Jr. of Prichard, WV, Morris Lycan of Newport News, VA and Clarence Lycan of Fort Gay, WV, route 1. Big Sandy News, Apr 6, 1945

 

MORRIS, Sarah McIntosh

Mrs. Sarah McIntosh Morris, 72, died Monday at noon at the home of a son, Robert Morris here. Mrs. Morris formerly lived in Stanton, KY, and resided in Martha, KY for 22 years. She was a daughter of the late Benjamin and Vicie Caudell McIntosh and the widow of Henry R. Morris. She had been a member of the Christian Church for 25 years. Funeral services were conducted Thursday at 8 p.m. a the Christian Church in Stanton with the Rev. Ramie Johnson officiating. Burial was made in Stanton Cemetery. Surviving are 4 daughters, Mrs. Mollie Nolan of Stanton, Mrs. Edna Hall and Mrs. Norman Miller of Martha, and Mrs. B. P. Marlow of St. Louisa; 3 sons, Robert Morris of Louisa, Russell Morris of Ashland, KY and Barney Morris of Catlettsburg, KY, 2 sisters, Mrs. Mina Jones of Middletown, OH and Mrs. Lucy Anderson of Stanton, and 2 brothers, Steve McIntosh of Fordsville, KY and John McIntosh of Stanton. Big Sandy News, Apr 13, 1945

 

PRICE, Harry

1909-1945

Harry Price, 35, former resident of Ashland, died Friday morning in a Hartford, CT hospital of a heart ailment relatives here have been informed. Mr. Price was employed at a tobacco warehouse in Hartford, having resided there for the past 3 years. He was born Aug 28, 1909 in Lawrence County, KY, a son of Phillip and Casteria Stewart Price. Surviving are 4 brothers, Fred and Frank Price, Ashland, Garrett Price, Slagle, WV, John Price, U. S. Army air Forces, India and 3 sisters, Mrs. Clyde Caudill and Mrs. Edna Murray, Ashland, and Mrs. Joe Doyle, Massillon, OH. Big Sandy News, Apr 27, 1945

 

RATLIFF, Mary (Crabtree)

Mrs. Mary Crabtree, 66 years old, of Fort Gay, route 1, died Tuesday of last week at her home near Fort Gay. Surviving are the husband, T. R. Ratliff, 3 daughters, Mrs. Hazel L. Perry of Sidney, WV, Mrs. Mildred R. Pauley of Delbarton, WV, and Mrs. Imogene V. Sword of Fort Gay; 3 sons, Ronald G. Ratliff of Grundy, VA, Clifford F. Ratliff of Hatfield, KY and Kenneth Ratliff at home; 2 sisters, Mrs. Emma L. Bass of Miami Beach, FL and Mfrs. Effie Hoosier of Fort Gay; 3 brothers,  Strother Crabtree of Holden, MO, the Rev. Carmi Crabtree of Fort Gay and Chauncey R. Crabtree of Huntington, WV, and 16 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Apr 6, 1945

 

RICE, William

William Rice, 42 years old of Huntington, died Tuesday morning in a Beckley hospital. Funeral services were conducted Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in the Buchanan Chapel at Zelda, KY by the Rev. Neff, pastor. Burial was made in the Buchanan Cemetery. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Grace Rice, the father, Mathis H. Rice of Lawrence county, KY; 2 brothers, Carl Douglas Rice and Oliver Rice of Huntington and 2 sisters, Mrs. Herbert Banfield and Mrs. Joseph Thompson of Buchanan, KY. Big Sandy News, Apr 13, 1945

 

SKAGGS, Wallace

Sgt. Wallace Skaggs, husband of Mrs. Juanita Hensley Skaggs and son of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Skaggs of Louisa, was seriously wounded in action on Apr 6 somewhere in Germany and died of wounds the following day. S. Sgt. Skaggs had been in service since Feb 1942 and overseas almost a year. He is survived by his wife, parents, 1 daughter, Willia Jean, age 2 years, 2 brothers and 4 sisters. His youngest brother, Cp. Phillip E. Skaggs, gave his life for his country on Iwo Jima on Feb 28 1945. His oldest brother. T. Sgt. John P. Skaggs, was wounded in action in Germany last fall and is now at Wakeman General Hospital, Camp Atterbury, IN. A third brother, Russell Skaggs is engaged in defense work in the ship yards at Tacoma, WA. Big Sandy News, Apr 27,1945

 

SKEENS, Richard B.

Richard B. Skeens, 72 years of age, died at his home on Tabors Creek, route 1, Fort Gay, WV, on Mar 31 following a sudden illness. He was a farmer and had worked for the N & W Railroad for several years. He was born at Fullers, KY, a son of the late Peter and Letha Pool Skeens. Funeral services were held Sunday Apr 8 at 11 a.m. conducted by the Rev. William Carroll. Interment was made in the Dean Cemetery near Fort Gay. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Georgia Maynard Dean, 2 daughters, Mrs. Andrew Dishman of Kenova, WV, and Mrs. William Loar of Louisa, route 2, 6 sons, William F. Skeens of Prichard, WV, Chester Skeens of Freeburn, KY, Mortie Skeens of Huntington, WV, Okie and Elzie Skeens of Fort Gay, WV and Dennis R. Skeens of the U. S. Marines at San Diego, CA. Big Sandy News, Apr 13, 1945

 

STANSBURY, Daniel

Daniel Stansbury, 85, died at his home in Louisa at 6:15 p.m. Friday. He had been in declining health for the past 4 years, but had been seriously ill for only one month. A member of the Baptist Church and the IOOF Lodge, he had resided in Louisa for the past 59 years. He was born near Clifford, a son of the late Harrison and Mary Ratcliff Stansbury. He was a grandson of the late Squire William Ratcliff and Nancy Garred Ratcliff of Clifford. The body remained at the Curtright Funeral Home for funeral services which were held Monday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Burial was made in Pinehill Cemetery. The IOOF Lodge conducted the ritualistic services at the grave. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Lydia Branham Stansbury, 2 daughters, Mrs. A. I. Sandlin, Kenova and Mrs. Teany Lawrence, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Apr 27,1 945

 

SUDDITH, Rev. Louis H.

Rev. Louis H. Suddith, 92, of Sandston, VA, widely-known retired Baptist minister, died last Tuesday at a Richmond, VA hospital. He was a former Baptist minister of Ashland and was well known here. Rev. Suddith retired in 1941, after serving in the ministry for 57 years. He was born at Warrenton, VA and was educated at the Oak Ridge Institute, NC and at old Richmond College. He was licensed to preach in 1881 and ordained as a pastor Aug 16, 1863, his first church being at Louisa. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lutie Ferguson Suddith, 4 daughters, Mrs. John A. Hubbard of Lanexe, Mrs. Harry T. Bainbridge of Toano, Miss Kathryn B. Suddith and Mrs. Margaret S. Walls, both of Sandston, 3 sons, Henry P. Suddith of Norfolk, Rodney R. Suddith of Newport News and Louis H. Suddith, Jr., U. S. N. and also 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Apr 13, 1945

 

THOMPSON, John H.

1893-1945

Funeral services for John H. Thompson, 51, who died suddenly here Saturday evening while conducted a class of candidates for the Masonic order, were held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Buchanan Chapel at Zelda, KY with burial in the Chapel Cemetery. Mr. Thompson moved to Louisa 1 years ago from Ashland where he had resided since 1927. He was born May 11, 1893 in Lawrence County, KY, a son of the late James and Sarah Perkins Thompson. He was a retired Armco employee. He was a member of the Sandy City Methodist Church of Catlettsburg, a past master of the Bolt's Fork Masonic Lodge and a member of the Royal Arch Mason of Ashland; a member of the Louisa Post American Legion and the Ashland Eagles Eirie. Surviving are the widow Mrs. Victoria Ferguson Thompson, 1 stepson, Frank Brown, Ashland, 1 step daughter, Mrs. Evelyn Hensley, During, WV, 2 brothers, Meredith Thompson, Ashland, and Hugh Thompson , Chattanooga, TN, 3 sisters, Mrs. James Anderson, Cincinnati, OH, Mrs. Viola Shortridge, Newberry, MI and Mrs. Carl Vinson, Lansing, MI; 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Apr 20, 1945

 

VANHORN, Mary Frances

Mrs. Mary Frances Van Horn, 77, of 825 Halbert Street, Ashland, died Sunday morning at the home of a son, Albert Van Horn, Wheelersburg, OH, after an illness of 2 weeks. Mrs. VanHorn was visiting in her son's home when stricken ill. Mrs. Van Horn was born in Lawrence County, KY, and had resided in Ashland for the last 20 yeas. She was a member of the Methodist Church. Surviving are the husband, George (Sol) Van Horn, 2 sons, Robert Van Horn, Ashland and Albert Van Horn, Wheelersburg, OH, 4 daughters, Mrs. Finney, Mrs. Fred Deskin, Catlettsburg, Mrs. C. W. Rickman, Portsmouth, OH, and Mrs. E. V. Lewis, Raceland; one brother, William Bellomy, Adeline, KY, 1 sister, Mrs. Belle Ruggles, Adeline and 25 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Apr 27, 1945

 

YOUNG, Ulysses S.

Ulysses S. Young, 79, of Irish Creek, Webbville, Route 1, passed away at his home Friday, April 13 at 10:20 p.m. following an illness of four months. He was a son of the late John and Mahalia Kelley Young. Funeral services were held Sunday at 10 a.m. from the home and burial was made in the family cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Zarah Roberts Young, seven daughters, Mrs. Emma Hall of Williamson, WV, Mrs. Miles Diamond of Rt. 1, Webbville, KY, Mrs. Theodore Hammond of London, OH, Mrs. Lee Diamond of Rt. 1, Webbville, KY, Mrs. Opal Holbrook of Columbus, OH, Mrs. Jim Bryant of Orient, OH, Mrs. Robert Butler at home, two sons, Milt Young, Rt. 1, Webbville, KY, Henry Young of Columbus, OH, one brother, Richard Young of Rt. 1, Webbville, KY and one half-brother, Lon Young of Chillicothe, OH. Big Sandy News, Apr 20, 1945

 

MAY 1945

 

 

BURTON, Frank J.

Frank J. Burton, 48, farmer, Cannonsburg, KY, died Sunday at 7:45 a.m. at the home after an illness of 4 years. Mr. Burton was born at Blaine, KY, May 29, 1896, a son of S. H. Burton and Mary Ella Jane York Burton. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Ethel Bailey Burton, 1 son, Paul Burton, at home, 3 daughters, Mrs. Irene  Ciarrocchi, Philadelphia, PA, Mrs. Ellen Marie Ward and Mrs. Helene Louise Dobbins, Wellston, OH, 2 brothers, Dr. C. C. Burton, West Liberty, KY, Luther Burton, Blaine, KY; 3 sisters, Mrs. Lillie Sturgell, Mrs. Greene Wellman, Ashland and Mrs. J. L. Hewlett, Louisa, KY; and 2 grandchildren. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 11 a.m. Burial was made in Rose Hill Burial Park. Big Sandy News, May 4, 1945

 

CARTER, Lou (Berry)

Mrs. Lou Carter, 60, wife of Millard Carter, died Thursday, May 10, at Greenfield, OH, route 2. She was the daughter of the late W. O. and Rachel Berry of this county. She had been a member of the Methodist Church 17 years. Funeral services were held at the home Saturday at 2 p.m. with burial in the Mounts Cemetery near Piketon, OH. She is survived by her husband, 4 sons, Chester Carter, Hillsboro, OH, Luther Carter of Greenfield, OH, Kay Carter of Columbus, OH and Charles Carter of Dayton, OH; 2 daughters, Mrs. Eskel Jordan of Chillicothe, OH, and Myrtie at home; 3 sisters, Elizabeth Berry of Irad, KY, Mrs. Lee Skaggs of Franklin Furnace, OH, and Mrs. Berry of Louisa, KY; 2 brothers, John and Jesse Berry of Irad, KY. Big Sandy News, May 18, 1945

 

DANIEL, Fannie (Thompson)

Mrs. Fanny Daniel, 62, wife of Fonnie Daniel, local photographer, was found dead in her home on Friday, April 27, 1945, several hours after she had succumbed to a heart attack.  Mr. Daniel, who had left her attending to household duties on Friday morning, April 27, 1945, returned at 7 o'clock in the evening, finding her dead in her chair. She was the daughter of the late W. S. and Belle Thompson Jordon of Lawrence county. She is survived by three sons, Leroy, with the U. S. Army in Germany, and Morris and Robert of Seattle, Wash., also four daughters, Mrs. Maudie Davenport, city, Mrs. Ernest Griffith and Mrs. Jimmie Ruth Meade at home and Jackie of Cleveland, O. None of the sons were able to be present at their mothers funeral.   One son, Troy preceded her in death several years ago. None of the sons were able to be present at their mother's funeral. Funeral services were held at the Mayo Memorial Church by Rev. J. L. Layne on Monday, April 30, 1945, and burial was made in the family lot in the Town Cemetery under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Big Sandy News, May 11, 1945

 

FERGUSON, Della (Gambill)

Mrs. Della Ferguson, 63, wife of M. M. Ferguson, died Wednesday, May 2, at 11:30 a.m. at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Dewey Cordle of Blaine. A daughter of the late Hugh and Della Blevins Gambill, she had lived near Blaine all her life. She had been a member of the Christian Church for the past 30 years. Funeral services were held at Blaine Thursday at 3 p.m. with burial in the family cemetery. She is survived by her husband, 1 daughter, Mrs. Dewey Cordle, 2 sisters, Mrs. Ellen McCullough of Chesapeake, OH, and Mrs. Lonnie Conway of Ironton, OH, 5 brothers, Lee Gambill of Blaine, KY, Tom Gambill of Tennessee, Bill Gambill of Texas, Clyde Gambill of Washington, D. C., and Jesse Gambill of Blairs Mill, KY. Big Sandy News, May 11, 1945

 

GARRED, Milton S.

1890-1945

Milton S. Garred, 55, Ashland, died at 2 p.m. Saturday in the government hospital in Hines, IL, after an illness of the past year. He was a veteran of World War I and finance officer in the France-Leece Post of the American Legion. He had been a resident of Ashland for 29 years, employed as an upholsterer and furniture repair man. He was born May 1, 1890 in Louisa, a son of John and Rescinda Botts Garred, both natives of Kentucky. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Anna Brown Garred, 1 son, Milton S.. Garred, Jr., Ashland, his father, John Garred, Louisa, 3 brothers, Joe and Wayne Garred, Louisa and John M. Garred of Lexington, KY; 4 sisters, Mrs. Margaret Burgess and Mrs. Luther Swetnam both of Louisa and Mrs. Van Reed and Mrs. Letta Henderson of Louisville. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, May 4, 1945

 

GILKERSON, A. S. "Sine"

S. "Sine" Gilkerson, 84, retired lumber dealer of Paintsville, KY, died at 4 p.m. Apr 30 in Louisa at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Addie Burgess. His death followed an illness of the past year. Mr. Gilkerson was well known and highly respected throughout the Big Sandy Valley. A son of the late Thomas Jefferson Gilkerson and Mrs. Manda Compton Gilkerson, he was born and reared at Prichard, WV, moving to his county when he was 14 years of age. He had been a member of the Methodist Church for many years. His wife, Mrs. Annie Brown Gilkerson, died in 1914. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 2 at the home of his daughter in Louisa with the Rev. W. M. Burgess officiating. Interment was made in the family cemetery at Gallup, KY. He is survived by one son, Dudley Gilkerson of Paintsville, KY, 1 daughter, Mrs. Addie Burgess of Louisa, 3 grandchildren, Miss Lucy Burgess of Louisa, S. Sgt. Lawrence Burgess of Moultrie, GA and Dudley Burgess of Frankfort, KY. Big Sandy News, May 4, 1945

 

HARDIN, Boone

Pfc. Boone Hardin, son of Mrs. William H. Hardin of Gallup, was killed in action Mar 22 on Luzon. Pfc. Hardin volunteered fro service in July 1944 and had been serving overseas with the 149th Infantry since December. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Marlene Chapman Hardin, 1 son, his mother, Mrs. William H. Hardin, 4 sisters, Mrs. E. W. Lambert of Donithan, KY, Mrs. Frank Cyrus of Coal Grove, OH, Mrs. Fred Sammons and Mrs. Homer Taylor of Wyandotte, MI; 6 brothers, Jack Hardin of Gallup, KY, Elias and Bill Hardin of Michigan, John Hardin of Ashland, KY, Harvey Hardin of Louisa, KY, and Jasper Hardin of Chester, PA. He was a brother of the late Phillip Hardin who passed away in March 1944. Big Sandy News, May 4, 1945

 

HILLMAN, John

John Hillman, 63, of Ashley, OH, died in a Columbus hospital May 11 at 6:10 a.m. following an illness of 4 months. He was a son of the late James H. and Alice Gray Hillman of Brammer Gap, route 1, Webbville, KY. Funeral services were held Sunday May 13, from the home of a brother, Charles Hillman at Brammer Gap with the Rev. Lloyd Jordan and Rev. Lewis Perry officiating. Interment was made in the Hillman family cemetery. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Cannie Hayes Hillman, 2 daughters, Miss Jewell Hillman of Columbus, OH and Miss Lorraine Hillman of Mansfield, OH, 1 son, Charles Hillman of Ashland, KY, 4 sisters, Mrs. Ballard Kitchen of Columbus, Mrs. Johnny Griffith of Cherokee, KY, Mrs. T. T. Webb and Mrs. Siddie Hammond, route 1, Webbville, KY, 3 brothers, Charles Hillman, R. L. Hillman and J. N. Hillman, all of route 1, Webbville, KY. Big Sandy News, May 18, 1945

 

MCKINSTER, Delilah (Thompson)

Delilah McKinster, 71, died at her home at Adams, KY, Friday May 11 at 11:15 p.m. She was the widow of the late Ephriam McKinster and a daughter of the late Asbury and Tabitha Moore Thompson. She had been a member of the Methodist Church for 55 years. Funeral services were held at the home Sunday at 10 a.m. with the Rev. William Burgess officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. W. H. Skaggs of Beaver, OH, 6 sons, Ray McKinster, Roy McKinster, William L. McKinster and Jesse McKinster all of Columbus, OH, Milton McKinster of Mattie, KY, Stanley McKinster of Adams, KY, 1 sister, Mrs. Ballard Castle of Tutor Key, KY, 2 half sisters, Mrs. Rose Triver of Grove City, OH, and Mrs. Ralph Moore of Columbus, OH, and 3 half brothers, William Berry of Detroit, MI, Freet Berry of South Portsmouth, KY and Charles Berry of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, May 18,1945

 

MILLER, M. B.

Funeral services for M. B. Miller, 81, who died Friday at the home of a niece, Mrs. Joe Rose of Louisa, route 1, were held Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the home of Mrs. Rose with the Rev. William W. Moore and the Rev. S. B. Ball officiating. Interment followed in the Miller Cemetery. The son of the late Dock and Nancy Shannon Miller, he is also survived by one sister, Mrs. John Ratcliff of Lancer, KY, 2 brothers, James Miller of Louisa and Hosca Miller of Columbus. Big Sandy News, May 11, 1945

 

MILUM, John

John Milum, 66 years old of Bluefield, WV, retired conductor for the Norfolk and Western Railway Co., who died Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at his home after a 2 months illness, was buried in the Ferguson Cemetery at Napier Ridge near East Lynn following graveside services with the Rev. J. C. Hager at Louisa, KY, officiating. A son of the late Robert and Lizzie Pinson Milum of Bluefield, he was a member of the Moose and Eagles lodges and the Brotherhood of Railway trainmen. His wife, Mrs. Mary Milum died in Jan 1944. Surviving are t2 sons, Willie Milum of Spencer, WV and Thomas Milum of Baltimore, a sister, Mrs. R. C. Preston of Borderland, WV and 4 brothers, the Rev. A. B. Milum of Fort Gay, WV, George Milum of East Lynn, Jink Milum of Kenova and Robert Milum of Borderland, KY. Big Sandy News, May 11, 1945

 

SCOTT, Fornie Marie

1905-1945

Mrs. Fornie Marie Scott, of 392 East Seventh Street, Chillicothe, OH, died at her residence Tuesday, Mar 20th at 1 p.m. following an illness of a year due to complications. She was born Oct 3, 1905 at Fort Gay, WV, the daughter of Elmer and Julia M. Bartram Stanley. On Feb 3, 1923, she was married to Sylvester A. Scott. She was a member of the Omega Methodist Church. She is survived by her parents, her husband, 4 children, Julia M., Arlie, Patricia Ruth and Katheryn Irene, all at home, a sister, Mrs. Knowles Roberts of Chillicothe, and a brother, Pvt. Roy B. Stanley with the U. S. Army in Germany. Her maternal grandparents were the late James and Julia Burgess Bartram of Fort Gay, WV. Services were conducted at the residence the following Thursday at 2 p.m. and interment was made in Greenlawn Cemetery under the direction of the Ware Funeral Home. Big Sandy News, May 18, 1945

 

SHORT, James Leedy

Private First Class James Leedy Short, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Millard F. Short of Louisa, was killed in action in Germany on Apr 7, according to a War Department message. Private Short arrived overseas in January and served in Southern France, Belgium and Holland. At the time of his death, he was with the Ninth Army. He was previously reported missing in action of Feb 3. Private Short received his education in Lawrence county schools, and entered the service on May 11, 1944. He trained at Camp Atterbury, IN and in Arkansas and spent a furlough here last December before entering an infantry replacement outfit in France. In addition to the parents, he is survived by 4 brothers and 6 sisters, 3 of whom are the armed forces: Technician Fifth Grade Walter Short, with a railroad battalion in Germany, Staff Sergeant Millard F. Short, Jr., with an ordnance unit in North Africa, First Lieutenant Addie Frances Short, with the Army Nurse Corps in England. Another brother, Harlan Short was honorably discharged from the service last April. Big Sandy News, May 4, 1945

 

SKAGGS, Lawrence W.

Sgt. Lawrence W. Skaggs, was killed in action in the Philippines Feb 13th according to a telegram from the War Department received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. U. S. Skaggs of Londonderry, OH. Sgt. Skaggs was a graduate of the Londonderry high school with the class of 1942 and entered service in November of the same year. He was assigned to the Ohio First Cavalry and served with that outfit for more than 2 years. He received his training at Fort Bliss, TX and went overseas in May 1943. He had been action in many of the major battles in the Pacific and had received commendations from his unit commander for leadership, initiative and outstanding aggressiveness shown in many encounters with the enemy. At Leyte Sgt. Skaggs said "We are here to do away with as many Japs as possible. I'm in a fighting outfit and have the best squad in the regiment." Sgt. Skaggs led his squad through 70 days of hard and tough fighting in the Leyte campaign. "It was in hills in the Ormoc sector where our scout discovered the dug-in Japs. We sort of worked our way up to them on all fours and surprised them." A few mortar shells and a few grenades did the trick." said Sgt. Skaggs. His father was formerly of Martha, KY and his mother was before marriage Miss Ida Wheeler of Blaine. Big Sandy News, May 4, 1945

 

STURGELL, Wilford

Wilford Sturgell, 36, passed away at the home of his parents, Rev. and Mrs. Henry Sturgell of Fort Gay, WV, May 12 at 9:30 a.m. Funeral arrangements are incomplete pending the arrival of a brother, S 1-c Charles Sturgell of California. Burial will be made in the Ferguson Cemetery near Fort Gay with the Rev. William Carroll officiating. He is survived by his parents, 3 sisters, Mrs. Mygdal stationed with the Waves in Washington, D. C., Mrs. Elwood Roberts, and Miss Louise Sturgell of Huntington, WV, 6 brothers, Watts Sturgell of Cucumber, WV, Ed Sturgell with the U. S. Army in the South Pacific, Andrew Sturgell with the Army in Germany, S 1-c Fred Sturgell stationed in California and Jimmy Sturgell at home. Big Sandy News, May 18, 1945

 

VANHOOSE, Howard

Pfc. Howard VanHoose, one of Louisa's most promising young business men, who was reported missing in Germany since Apr 15, 1945, has now been reported killed in action according to the War department telegram received Monday by his wife, Mrs. Joan VanHoose. Before entering service in November 1943, he was manager of the VanHoose Lumber Company here. He was a valued member of the Louisa Rotary Club, the Louisa Business Men's Association and was regarded as one of Louisa's best citizens. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Joan Conley VanHoose, 1 son, Joe Howard, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. F. S. VanHoose of Paintsville and 1 sister, Mrs. Scott Craft of Louisa. Big Sandy News, May 18, 1945

 

WELLMAN, Lydia (Robinson)

Mrs. Lydia Wellman, 92, widow of James Harvey Wellman, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Carl Heston of Louisa at 12:45 a.m. Monday following an illness of 2 weeks. She was born near Fort Gay, WV, a daughter of Warren and Sara Ann Frazier Robinson. She had been a member of the Christian Church for 75 yeas and had resided in Louisa for the past 40 years. Funeral services were held at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Heston, Wednesday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Burial was made in Pine Hill Cemetery. Surviving are 4 daughters, Mrs. Harry May, Mrs. Milt Vinson and Mrs. Heston all of Louisa and Mrs. Mary Daniels, Huntington, WV, 4 sons, Elisha Wellman, route 1, Fort Gay, Warnie Wellman, Catlettsburg, Henry Wellman, Louisa and Elva Wellman, Huntington, 4 sisters, Mrs. Amanda Lycan, Fort Gay, Mrs. Isadore Spears, Fort Gay, Mrs. Cuzzie Peters, Huntington, and Mrs. C. B. Wellman, Louisa. Big Sandy News, May 25, 1945

 

WHEELER, Arlie

Wheeler, Thurley (Bentley)

A joint funeral service conducted by the Rev. Charlie Lyons of Ashland was held Monday, May 14 at 1 p.m. for Arlie E. Wheeler, 35 and his wife, Mrs. Thurley Bentley Wheeler, 33, of Skaggs, victims of an automobile accident at Paintsville, Friday May 11th. Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler with their niece, Miss Wanda Lee Barnette, were the only occupants of the car which collided with a Paintsville grocery truck. The driver of the truck suffered some injuries. Miss Barnette, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Barnette of Louisa, route 3, suffered a broken shoulder and collarbone and several lacerations about the face. She is now recuperating in a Paintsville hospital. Mrs. Wheeler was killed instantly and Mr. Wheeler died about an hour later. Mr. Wheeler is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. M. Wheeler of Skaggs, 7 sisters, Mrs. Clyde Barnette, of Louisa, Mary L. Skaggs of Louisa, Mrs. Willie McKinster of Columbus, OH, Mrs. Clyde Hutchinson of Portsmouth, OH, Mrs. Borge Rosing of Huntington, WV, Mrs. Darrell Thompson of Keaton, KY, and Miss Evelyn Wheeler at home, 1 brother, Sgt. Herman L. Wheeler, now serving with the U. S. Army in Germany. Mrs. Wheeler is survived by 1 sister and 2 brothers. Big Sandy News, May 18, 1945

 

WHEELER, James Arthur

Staff Sergeant James Arthur Wheeler has been reported missing in action over Germany since Mar 22, 1945. His father, Kay Wheeler, of Louisa, route 1, formerly of Blaine, received the following letter from his commanding general:

5 April 1945

Dear Mr. Wheeler:

Since March 22,1 945, your son, Staff Sergeant James A. Wheeler, 39924235, has been missing in action. He served as tail gunner aboard a Flying Fortress, which was on a bombing mission over Ruhland, Germany. Shortly after arriving in the target area the formation encountered intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, at which time Jim's ship was seriously damages. Immediately thereafter, the stricken aircraft left the formation and began to lose altitude, Observers watched the plane while it went into a spin, but failed to see any parachutes. you son's personal possessions have been gathered and will be sent to the Effects Quartermaster, Army Effects Bureau, Kansas City, MO from which point they will be forwarded to the designated beneficiary. For the fine work they have  accomplished while participating in many hazardous combat operations, Jim and his fellow airmen have won the heartfelt tanks and gratitude of the oppressed people of Europe. the Air Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster has been awarded to your son for meritorious service. Should there be  any change in his status, you will be notified by the War Department. Very sincerely yours, N. F. Twining, Major Genera, USA, Commanding. Big Sandy News, May 11, 1945

 

JUNE 1945

 

 

ALLEY, John W.

John W. Alley, 48, a Detroit real estate broker for 10 years and a former Huntington resident, died at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday in a Detroit hospital of a heart ailment. The body was taken to Huntington, Thursday to the Steele Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at 4 p.m. from the home of his parents at 238 Eleventh Ave. Born and reared in Huntington, Mr. Alley was employed by the Banks-Miller Supply Company there for many years. He was the son of Mr. E. W. Alley, retired Chesapeake and Ohio Railway Company employee and Mrs. Alley. Surviving are the widow, the former Miss Louise Crutcher of Louisa, KY, a son, John W. Alley at home, the parents, a sister, Mrs. Edward C. Jones, and 2 aunts, Mrs. Emory Swann and Mrs. Elba Smith all of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Jun 22, 1945

 

BARTLEY, Kenneth

Pvt. Kenneth H. Bartley has been reported killed in action in Germany Apr 5. He entered the Army in 1942 and had served in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany. At the time of his death he was expecting to get a furlough and was due a discharge. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Harl Curnutte of Columbus, OH, 1 brother, Glenn Bartley of the U. S. Navy, 2 sisters, Mrs. Lee Webb and Miss Donna Jean Curnutte of Columbus, OH and his grandmother, Mrs. Mary Hughes, with whom he had made his home at Irad, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 22, 1945

 

CHILDERS, Arthur

1886-1945

Arthur Childers, 59, a Chesapeake & Ohio Railway trackman, was found dead in bed Friday morning at his home in Ashland. A resident of Ashland for 31 years, he was born at Richardson, Lawrence County, KY, a son of Russell and Cordelia Castle Childers. He was a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church of Westwood and the Odd Fellows Lodge of Ashland and had been employed by the C & O for the past 15 years. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. from the Enterprise Baptist Church with the Rev. Kelly McGraw and Rev. Charles Cremeans officiating. Interment was in Dixon Cemetery. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Mary Childers, 2 daughters, Mrs. Bessie Orr and Mrs. Sylvia Jackson, both of Westwood, 2 sons, Paul Childers, at home and S. Sgt. Bert Childers, Chanute Field, IL, 2 sisters, Mrs. Daisy Jacobs, Wurtland and Mrs. Rose McHenry, Louisa, 2 half sisters, Mrs. Julia Allen, Catlettsburg, and Mrs. Pricie Davis, Hellier, KY, 1 half brother, Presley Childers, Paintsville and 1 grandson, Bobby Gene Orr, Westwood. Big Sandy News, June 1, 1945

 

DANIEL, Dr. Grover C.

1891-1945

Dr. Grover C. Daniel, 53, head of the Whipple, AZ veterans administration facility, died May 11 at the National Military hospital at Sawtell, CA. Dr. Daniel was born in Fallsburg, KY, Nov 24, 1891, and received his early education in Fallsburg, graduating from the high school in Louisa. He obtained his degree in medicine from Loyola University at Chicago in 1919 and also took post graduate work in Denver in 1923 and at Oteen, NC conference in 1925. He was a 32nd degree Mason, a member of the Kiwanis Club, a communicant of the Congregational Church. He was also a member of the Ernest A. Love Post No. 6 Prescott, the American Legion and the Forty and Eight. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Elma Daniel and a son, Sergeant George G. Daniels. Speaking of Dr. Daniel, Mayor James Whetstine of Whipple, AZ, said, "The name of Dr. Grover C. Daniel, his exemplary life, his commendable and devoted service, personal and official, to the Veterans facility and to our community, his neighborly and friendly associations as one among us, will long be remembered. Big Sandy News, Jun 1, 1945

 

DIAMOND, Ionza Lee

Ionza Lee Diamond, 77, died at the home of his son, Ionza M. Diamond, of 35th Street, Catlettsburg, Friday night. Death followed an illness of several years. He was a native of Lawrence County, KY and a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church of Catlettsburg. He had resided in Catlettsburg for the past 20 years. Surviving are 2 sons, I. M. Diamond, with whom he made his home, and Lonnie Diamond, U. S. Army, Camp Shelby, Miss., a step daughter, Mrs. Birdie Kelly of Columbus, OH, 2 brothers, John of Logan, WV and Henry of Louisa and a sister, Mrs. Jennie Nolan of Knoxville, TN. Big Sandy News, Jun 22, 1945

 

EDWARDS, Clifford F.

Clifford F. Edwards, division engineer of the Hocking Division, Chesapeake and Ohio Railway Co., died at 5:30 a.m. Saturday at his home in Columbus, OH, after an illness of 3 months. Mr. Edwards, widely-known in the tri-state and Big Sandy Valley had been employed by the C & O for the past 21 years. Formerly a resident of Huntington, he had resided at Louisa, for a number of years and held the position of supervisor of track, Big Sandy division. Funeral arrangements are incomplete, Big Sandy news, Jun 8, 1945

 

EKERS, Billie

Billie Ekers, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe Ekers, died in a Louisa hospital last Thursday. Born in Louisa, a son of Roscoe F. and Karen Diamond Ekers, he had been employed at the Crucible Steel Mills, Midland, PA for 6 months. He was a graduate of Fallsburg Consolidated School and later attended Louisa High. Funeral services were held from the home of the parents, Saturday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. William w. Moore officiating. Burial was made in the Ekers Cemetery on Jerry Riffe hill near Yatesville. Surviving in addition to the parents are 2 sisters, Betty Leola Ekers, Ashland and Wanda Ekers at home and 2 brothers, Gary Lynn and Roscoe F. Jr., both at home, the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Ekers, Yatesville and the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Diamond, Cadmus. Big Sandy News, Jun 1, 1945

 

GARRED, John W.

John W. Garred, 77, Negro, died at his home here at 4:50 p.m. Friday. His wife, Lou Rinda Botts Garred preceded him in death in 1923. A life long resident of Louisa, he had been employed at the Brunswick hotel for 36 years and had operated a restaurant for 27 years. He had been a member of the A. M. E. Church for 50 years. Funeral services were conducted with the Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Burial was made in Ashland cemetery. Surviving are 4 daughters, Mrs. Luther Swetnam of Louisa, Miss Lettie Mucher, Lakeland, KY, Mrs. Ben Reed of Louisa and Mrs. Frances Burgess of Louisa, 3 sons, Joe Jean Garred of Louisa, John N. Garred of Lexington, Wayne Garred of Louisa and 1 sister, Mrs. Hattie Clark of Louisa, also 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Big Sandy news, Jun 15, 1945

 

HAMMOND, Opal (Webb)

 Mrs. Opal Webb Hammond, 47, wife of Bascom Hammond of Webbville, route 1, on Big Catt, died at the home Sunday Jun 25 at 7 a.m. following an illness of 2 years. She was born at Twin Branch, a daughter of Andy Webb and the late Ida Adams Webb. She had been a member of the Church of God for the past 22 years. Funeral services were held Tuesday Jun 26 at 2 p.m. at the home with the Rev. Jack Perry and the Rev. G. G. Bentley officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by her father, her husband, 1 son, Marin Wetzel Hammond, 3 sisters, Mrs. Roy Hayes of Cleveland, OH, Mrs. Grover Williamson of Akron, OH, and Mrs. Manley Adams of Ashland, KY, 1 brother, Jay B. Webb, Elyria, OH. Big Sandy News, Jul 29,1 945

 

HANDSHAW, Linda Lou

1943

Linda Lou Handshaw, 1 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Eugene Handshaw of Louisa, passed away at a local hospital Friday Jun 1 at 1 p.m. as a result of injuries inflicted when she was run over by a truck while playing in front of her home in Lower Louisa. She was born Dec 13, 1943 at Chattaroy, WV coming to Louisa with her family 1 month ago. On Saturday the body was taken to the home of her grandmother, Mrs. Mary Tackett, at Mud Lick, KY where funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday. Interment was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by her parents, 2 sisters, and her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. M. C. Handshaw of Louisa, route 2 and Mrs. Mary Tackett of Mud Lick, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 8, 1945

 

KOUNS, George W.

George W. Kouns, 71, former president of Commercial Bank of Louisa and former county treasurer of Lawrence county, died at 1:50 p.m. Friday, Jun 15 in a Louisa hospital after an illness of 12 days. A merchant at Blaine, KY for 23 years, before coming here in 1924, he was well known and highly respected throughout the county. Funeral services were held Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Christian at Louisa, where he was a member for 30 years. Burial was made in the Rose Hill Burial Park in Ashland. Born in Mavity in Boyd County, KY, a son of the late William G. and Julia Ann Fuller Kouns, he was married to the former Cynthia Ann Moore, who died 8 years ago. In 1939 he was married to Mrs. Doshia Edith Bell, who survives. Other survivors are 2 daughters, Mrs. Jay B. Moore of Louisa and Mrs. Julia Hewlett of Ashland; 2 sons, W. E. Kouns of Louisa and Major J. C. Kouns of Montgomery, AL, a step daughter, Mrs. C. L. Hall of Louisa, 2 stepsons, James W. Bell of Waltham, Mass., and John P. Bell at home and 5 sisters, Mrs. Amanda Brown of St. Albans, WV, Mrs. S. K. Holton and Mrs. Gertrude Alsop of Los Angeles, CA, Mrs. J. P. Tonsfeldt of White Salmon, WA, and Mrs. Glen Deeter of Vay, ID. Big Sandy News, Jun 22, 1945

 

LOAR, Mary Belle (VanHoose)

Mary Belle Loar, 57, died at her home on route 1, Fort Gay, WV, Saturday Jun 2 at 1:20 a.m. She had been in ill health for the past 4 years. She was a daughter of the late William and Ella Pack VanHoose. Funeral services were held Monday Jun 4 at 2 p.m. from the home with the Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by her husband, John H. Loar, 4 daughters, Mrs. Albert Wellman of Fort Gay, Mrs. Ernest Skeens of Portsmouth, OH, Mrs. W. M. Lester of Bergman, AR, and Miss Frieda Loar at home, 3 sons, W. H. Loar, of route 1, Louisa, Robert Loar of Bishop, VA, and John Loar of Paducah, and 1 sister, Mrs. Bertha Lynch. Big Sandy News, Jun 8, 1945

 

MAYNARD, Lewis Wetzel

Lewis Wetzel Maynard, 51 years old, 1835 Charleston Ave., who died Saturday in a Huntington hospital was laid to rest in the Fry Cemetery at Stiltner, WV following funeral services Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at the Stiltner Baptist Church with the Rev. Fisher Fry officiating. Surviving are the widow, 2 sisters, Mrs. W. B. Clark of Stiltner and Mrs. Cora M. pack of Hampton, VA, and 1 brother, Charles Maynard of Louisa, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 8, 1945

 

MILLER, Walter

Seaman First Class Walter Miller, son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Miller of Martha, has been reported killed in action on Feb 11, 1945 when his ship was torpedoed in an engagement in the Pacific. His wife, Mrs. Mona B. Miller, received the following letter from his commanding officer: My dear Mrs. Miller; It is with deepest regret that I, as senior surviving officer of the USS LST 577, write to you concerning your husband, Walter Darrell Miller, Seaman first class, United States Naval Reserve, who, following the sinking of this ship, was reported as missing. After carefully reviewing the known facts, he must now be considered killed in action. The USS LST 577 was returning to the Philippines with a resupply convoy when at about 9:30 a.m. on Feb 11, 1945, she was torpedoed. Big Sandy News, Jun 1, 1945

 

PICKENS, Emma Irene

Mrs. Emma Irene Pickens, 70, died at her home at Zelda, KY, Saturday after an illness of one week. She had been a resident of Zelda for the past 18 years, moving from Greenup County. Her husband, Moses S. Pickens, died in 1940. Funeral services for Mrs. Pickens, a member of the Baptist Church since girlhood, were held in the Buchanan Chapel Church Monday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Bias Hodge officiating. Burial was made in the Buchanan Chapel Cemetery. The body was taken to Zelda Sunday morning at 9 from the Curtright Funeral Home here. Surviving are 4 daughters, Miss Anna Pickesn, at home, Mrs. Joe Crigger, Williamson, WV, Mrs. Fred Ellis, Prichard, WV, and Mrs. Lester Saunders, Ironton, OH, two sons, Harshey and Bernard Pickens, both of Zelda, and 3 sisters, Mrs. Nannie Adams, Fort Knox, KY, Mrs. May Scott, Raceland, KY and Mrs. Rose Ransbottom, Franklin Furnace, OH. Big Sandy News, Jun 22, 1945

 

SKEENS, Erma

Mrs. Erma Skeens, 39, passed away at the home of her mother, at Glenwood, Thursday, Jun 21 at 4:15 p.m. She was born at Glenwood, a daughter of Mrs. Maude Howell Hammond and the late Mack Hammond. She had lived at Russell, KY, for 6 years and at Fallsburg for a short time. Funeral services were held Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the home and burial was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by her mother, her husband, Hobart Skeens, 1 son, James Edward Skeens. Big Sandy News, Jun 29,1 945

 

SPENCER, Mary (Laney)

Mary H. Spencer, 79, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Charles Spencer of Louisa, route 1, Friday, May 25 at 3:50 a.m. A daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Margaret Rose Laney, Mrs. Spencer had been a member of the Freewill Baptist Church for more than 40 years. Funeral services were held Saturday May 26 at 10:30 a.m. from the Spencer Church. Burial was made in the Mike Thompson Cemetery near Norris. She is survived by her husband, L. D. Spencer, 1 daughter, Mrs. Charles Spencer, route 1, Louisa, 2 sisters, Mrs. Sam Thompson of Cordell, KY and Mrs. Elisha Spencer of Adams, KY. Big Sandy News, Jun 1, 1945

 

STEWART, Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson Stewart, 72, died Tuesday morning in a Bluefield, WV, hospital after an illness of the past 4 weeks. Mr. Stewart was the son of the late L. C. Stewart and Ellen Frances Stewart and was widely known throughout Lawrence and Boyd Counties. He was born Nov 26, 1872 in Lawrence County, KY. Mr. Stewart was a former mayor of Bluefield and for many years a superintendent of various coal companies in West Virginia and at the time of his death was the owner of the Stewart Fuel and Supply Company at Bluefield, WV. He is survived by his wife, Montry Boyd Stewart, 3 daughters, Mrs. Mabel Tender and Mrs. Marie Short of Bluefield and Mrs. Margie E. Harrison of Akron, OH, 2 sons, A. J. Stewart, Jr. of Philadelphia, PA, Thomas Stewart of Bluefield, 2 sisters, Mrs. M. L. Robinette of route 1, Ashland, KY and Mrs. Lora Bolt of Rush, KY, 3 brothers, K. R. Stewart of Ashland, Crit Stewart of Louisa and Charles Stewart of Welch, WV. Big Sandy News, Jun 15, 1945

 

THOMAS, Robert

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. J. C. Hager were held Tuesday, Jun 5 at 2:30 p.m. at the Wallace Cemetery, near Louisa for Robert Thomas, colored, who died June 3, the victim of a fire which destroyed his home and from which volunteer firemen were unable to rescue him. Coroner Henry S. Young held the inquest Sunday afternoon. Thomas was 66 years old and was the son of the late Robert Thomas and Mattie Figue Young of Alabama. He moved to Louisa 26 years ago and here he was commonly known by the nickname "Poor Boy". The origin of the fire is unknown although it is believed to have started from the kitchen stove. The fire was discovered about noon Sunday and had made too much headway to be checked before the building and its contents were utterly destroyed. Thomas is survived by 1 daughter, Mrs. Fitch A. Cessor of Huntington, a step daughter, Mrs. Georgia Hewitt of Norfolk, VA, 3 step sons, Granville Cottrell and Oscar Cottrell of Louisa and Quartermaster Fred Cottrell, somewhere in the South Pacific, 1 sister, Mrs. Lillie B. Smarts of Cincinnati, OH, 2 brothers, Dave and Roy Young of Detroit, MI. Big Sandy News, Jun 8, 1945

 

TILLER, Thomas R.

Thomas R. Tiller, 75, coal miner and lifelong Boyd County resident, died at 9:25 a.m. Saturday at his home in Rush, KY, after an illness of 6 months. Mr. Tiller was born in Lawrence County, a son of Sam and Matilda Runyon Tiller. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Martha B. Tiller, 1 son, Alonzo Tiller, Rush, 3 sisters, Mrs. Arthur Harris, Ashland, Mrs. Lan Reeves, Huntington, WV, and Mrs. Cass Tiller, Prestonsburg, KY, also 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jun 15, 1945

 

VAN KEUREN, Thomas H.

Mr. Thomas H. Van Keuren, 62, retired employee of the Columbia Gas and Oil System for 35 years, died last Thursday morning at this home at Elkview, WV. Mr. Van Keuren came to Louisa in 1929 as Superintendent of the local interests of the Columbia Gas and Oil system and resided here for the past 16 years. He was retired in May of this year, due to illness, and returned to his home at Elkview. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Bettie Van Keuren. Services were held at 11 a.m. Friday at the Bartlett mortuary at Charleston. The body was sent to McDonald, PA, his birthplace for additional rites and burial on Saturday. Mr. Van Keuren, during his residence here, won a warm place in the hearts of his many friends throughout the county who knew and loved him. Big Sandy News, Jun 15, 1945

 

VAUGHAN, William

William Vaughan, 66 years old, a native of this county, better known as Billy died at his home at Paintsville, Monday of last week following an illness of several months. Mr. Vaughan was an employee of the C. & O. for years, having had charge of the pumping  of water for engines at Paintsville. He is survived by his wife and two daughters and one grand daughter who made her home with her grand parents. Funeral and burial services will be held at Richardson, KY., Thursday. Big Sandy News, Jun 15, 1945

 

WELLMAN, Alice (Webb)

Funeral services, conducted by the Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Louisa, were held Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Fort Gay Methodist Church for Mrs. Alice Webb Wellman, 51, who passed away at her home in Louisa, Jun 20 following a stroke suffered six months ago. She was born at Saltpetre, WV, a daughter of Mrs. Arminta Young Webb and the late Leonard S. Webb. She had resided in Louisa for the past 12 years, moving here from Fort Gay. She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Arminta Webb of Circleville, OH; her husband, Charley L. Wellman of Louisa, 2 daughters, Mrs. Fred Boming of Red Jacket, WV, and Mrs. Victor Salder of Lima, OH, 4 sons, Sgt. Willis W. Wellman in Germany, Cpl. Wallace Wellman in France, Clyde Wellman of Fedsville, WV and S 2-c Carl Wellman in the Pacific, 2 sisters, Mrs. Willie Roberts of Tulsa, OK and Mrs. Sam Childers of Fayette Co., WV, 2 brothers, Willard Webb of Scott, WV and Elliott Webb of Circleville, OH. Big Sandy News, Jun 29, 1945

 

WRIGHT, Belle

1857-1945

Funeral services for Mrs. Belle Wright, 88, who resided in Ceredo for 33 years and died Saturday at the home of a son, Wayne B. Wright of Columbus, OH were held Monday at the First Congregational Church at Ceredo, where she was a member. The Rev. L. C. Talmage, pastor, officiated, and burial was made in Spring Hill Cemetery. Widow of the late Robert Wright, Jr., who was Ceredo postmaster for many years and later a merchant and coal operator, she was born at Ferguson, Wayne County, Feb 12, 1857, daughter of the late Samuel J. and Lourissa Ratcliff Ferguson. She was an aunt of War Mobilization Director Fred M. Vinson and of Judge Charles W. Ferguson of Wayne. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Lillie Wright Black of Roanoke, VA, 5 sons, Samuel J. Wright, of Roanoke, James Wright of Grundy, VA, Roy L. Wright of Washington, Hugh R. Wright of Wayne and Wayne B. Wright of Columbus; 2 sisters, Mrs. Georgia Dillon of Hilden, MO and Mrs. J. G. Lambert of Kenova, and 2 brothers, J. C. Ferguson of Kenova and W. B. Ferguson of Ceredo. Three sisters and a brother preceded Mrs. Wright in death, Mrs. L. B. Ferguson of Wayne, Mrs. Victoria Vinson of Ferguson and Mrs. Virginia Vinson of Louisa, KY and James Ferguson of Ferguson. Big Sandy News, Jun 22, 1945

 

YORK, James

James York, 72, of near Louisa, died Sunday morning in the Lawrence County General hospital at Ironton, OH, following a major operation performed 2 weeks earlier. Mr. York, a farmer, was born near Louisa, a son of the late Gloccus and Elizabeth Bates York, both natives of Kentucky, Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in Louisa with the Rev. Jack See officiating. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Carrie Kelley York, Louisa, 6 sons, Elder Roosevelt York, pastor of the Ironton Apostolic Gospel Church, Reuben York, Pinson Fork, KY, Jas. York, Merrimac, WV, Harry York, Williamson, WV, George York, U. S. Navy, Pacific, Walter York, Louisa and 1 daughter, Mrs. Jones, 3 brothers, E. C. York, Torchlight, KY, G. W. York, Louisa, Nathaniel York, Glenhayes, WV, and 2 sisters, Mrs. Emma Wellman, Williamson, WV and Mrs. Mary Walden, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Jun 15, 1945

 

JULY 1945

 

ADAMS, Lonnie

Lonnie Adams, 41, passed away at a Lima, OH hospital Jul 15th following an extended illness. He was a son of Mrs. Nancy Prince Adams of Columbus, OH, formerly of Lawrence County and the late Isaac Adams. The body was brought to the Curtright Funeral Home where funeral services were conducted Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. by Rev. S. B. Ball and Rev. J. C. Hager. Burial was made in the Pine Hill Cemetery. He is survived by his mother, 2 sisters, Mrs. W. H. C. Thompson of Sinking Springs, OH, and Mrs. Raymond McKinster of Columbus, OH, 4 brothers, Dave of route 1, Louisa, Jim of Louisa, Stanley of Springfield, OH and Morton of route 1, Ashland. Big Sandy News, Jul 20, 1945

 

BALL, Fred

Pfc. Fred Ball, of Adeline, KY was killed on Jun 2, 1945 in Stockstadt, Aschaffenburg, Germany in a truck accident. He was inducted into the Army Dec 14, 1942 and took his basic training at Camp Van Dorn, Miss., Shreveport, LA and Camp Maxey, TX. He was sent overseas in Oct 1944. Pfc. Ball was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in Belgium Jan 30,1 945. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Ball of Adeline, KY. The survivors are Mrs. Emma Smith of Rossmore, WV, Mrs. Elsie White of Marysville, OH, Mrs. Cora Gross of Sunbury, OH, Mrs. Maggie Gordon and Mrs. Christine Goff of Sunburn, OH. Big Sandy News, Jul 6, 1945

 

BAULDEN, Reece

Reece Baulden, colored, died at his home in Louisa, Monday, Jul 16, at 5:20 p.m. following an illness of 10 months. He had been a member of the Baptist Church since boyhood. Funeral services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. in the A.M.E. Church with the Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Interment was made in the Wallace Cemetery. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Lucy Ward Baulden, 1 step daughter, Mrs. Lillian Justice of Louisa and 1 step son, Ulus Ward. Big Sandy News, Jul 20,1 945

 

BOGGS, Claude J.

Pfc. Claude J. Boggs was wounded in action in Germany Apr 6, 1945 and died in an Army hospital on the same day. He volunteered for Army service Feb 11, 1943 and served as tail gunner with the Air Corps for 19 months. He was ten transferred to the infantry  and sent overseas where he was serving with General Patton's Third Army at the time of his death. He had won the Purple Heart, which has been sent to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Estill Boggs of Martha. Besides the parents he is survived by 2 sisters, Mrs. Glen Sturgill and Miss Bediah Boggs, also of Martha. Part of the letter received by his parents from the Chaplain of his outfit follows: Mrs. Boggs: Please accept my deepest sympathy in the death of your son, Pfc. Claude J. Boggs, as the result of wounds received in action in Germany. Being a Protestant Chaplain, I visited him in the hospital and held prayer with him. In fact, less than 1 hour before his quiet and peaceful passing we held prayer together and he assured me that all was well with his soul. His buddies who knew him felt his loss even as you. He gave his best and obeyed every order given him. I conducted funeral services for him and his buddies gathered some beautiful spring flowers which we laid over him. He was taken to the American Cemetery at Butzbach, Germany where he was laid to rest. Mrs. Boggs, I feel sure that your son passed through the gates that lead from time to eternity strong in hope and assurance. Big Sandy news, Jul 20, 1945

 

BOYD, Ida May

Ida May Boyd, 17 of Fort Gay, WV, who was drowned while swimming in the Big Sandy River 3 miles below Fort Gay Friday evening, was buried in the Vaughan Cemetery after funeral services held there Monday morning, Jul 23. Minuard and Rech Boyd, who were swimming with their sister, tried desperately to save her and were themselves almost drowned before help came. The victim is survived by the father, Nol Boyd, 2 sisters, Mrs. Harold Biller of Bellevue, OH and Mrs. Patrick Kelley of Betsy Layne, KY; 3 brothers, Minuard and Rech Boyd of Fort Gay and Milliard Boyd of Georges Creek, KY. Big Sandy News, Jul 27, 1945

 

BOYES, George Vinson

George Vinson Boyes, 23, died in a hospital at Weston, WV, Saturday Jul 21. He had lived at Weston for the past year, and prior to that at Fort Gay, WV and Rittman, OH. He was a son of the late John Emmitt and Gussie Crabtree Boyes. Funeral services were held Tuesday Jul 24 at 2 p.m. in the Greenbrier Church on the Fort Gay-Wayne Road and burial was made in the Crabtree Cemetery at Joels Branch, WV with the Rev. Audrey Lester of Fort Gay officiating. He is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. Adolph Lycan of Rittman, OH, Mrs. Golden Lloyd of Wakeman, OH and Mrs. Andrew Bauders of Marshfield, OH; 3 brothers, Audley Boyes of Riverside, CA, Haskell Boys of Brigham City, UT and Alfred Boys of Marshfield, OH. Big Sandy News, Jul 27, 1945

 

CHEEK, Walter

Walter Cheek, 55, of Coal Grove, OH, died Sunday morning in King's Daughters' Hospital after on illness of 6 months. Surviving him are his widow, Ella Cheek, and the following children: Pauline, Mabel, and Bobby at home, Richard of the Army in Columbus, Harry of the Army stationed on Luzon, Charles of the Army stationed in Sandusky, and Mrs. D. L. Miller of South Point, 6 brothers and sisters, Joseph of Louisa, Andrew of Ashland, Arthur and Effie Cheek of Sandusky, Mrs. Tom Weaver and Mrs. Mary Burcham of Columbus. Big Sandy News, Jul 27,1 945

 

COMPTON, Lafe B.

1871-1945

Lafe B. Compton, 73, retired Norfolk and Western conductor passed away at his home in Louisa Thursday morning at 3:30. He was the son of the late Jacob R. and Martha Kinner Compton, and was born at Buchanan, KY Jul 22, 1871. He is survived by his wife, formerly Monia Blankenship, and by 2 sons, Joseph S. Compton, recently discharged from the U. S. Army after having served 6 years in the service and now at home, and Ernest L. Compton, local business man and by 2 brothers, Joe G. Compton of Jacksonville, FL and J. R. Compton of Buchanan, KY. Funeral services will be held at the Curtright Funeral Home Saturday at 11 a.m. with the Rev. L. M. Rogers officiating. Due to failing health, Mr. Compton was forced to retired from the railroad in 1934. He moved from Portsmouth, OH to Louisa in 1937 residing on Perry Street. He was a member of the Louisa Methodist Church. Big Sandy News, Jul 13, 1945

 

ENDICOTT, William H.

1880-1945

Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 1 p.m. in the Methodist Church at Kermit for William H. Endicott, 64, prominent Kermit resident and retired merchant who succumbed last Wednesday in the Rocky Glen Sanitarium at McConnelsville, OH. The Rev. Sheppard, pastor of the Kermit Church, conducted the services and burial followed at Peter's Branch in Wayne County. Mr. Endicott, a native of Lawrence County, KY had resided nearly all his life at Kermit where he took an active part in affairs of that community and serve the people as a merchant. He was a member of the Baptist Church and was an active member of Mason Lodge No. 167 at Kermit. Born on Oct 25, 1880, Mr. Endicott, was a son of Joshua and Elizabeth Endicott. He was married to Florence Sammons, of which union 11 children survive. Survivors include 5 sons, George of Dayton, KY, Archie, James Herbert and William of Columbus, OH and Roy of Williamson, 6 daughters, Misses Delma, Clara, Irene and Isabel of Columbus, Mrs. John R. Brewer, Jr. of Columbus and Mrs. Harry Brewer of Kermit; 1 brother, Gabe Endicott of Wayne county and Mrs. Mamie Wilson of Louisa, KY. Big Sandy News, Jul 20, 1945

 

FRASHER, Charley

Charley Frasher, 63, retired N & W Railway conductor, died at his home in Fort Gay, WV, Tuesday Jul 17, at 1:30 a.m. A son of L. F. Frasher and the late Elizabeth Walker Frasher, he was born at Fort Gay and had lived there all of his life. He retired from the railroad 16 years ago due to ill health. He had been a member of the Methodist Church for 15 years. Funeral services will be held at the Fort Gay Methodist Church today at 2 p.m. Burial will be made in the Bartram Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Maynard Frasher, his father, 1 daughter, Mrs. Lewis Lampert of Fort Gay, 1 son, Cpl, Charles L. (Lace) Frasher, now with the U. S. Army in France; 3 sisters, Mrs. Herman Smith of Culgen, ND, Mrs. Henry Bean of Prichard, WV, Mrs. C. F. Stoddard of Grand Rapids, MI; 1 brother, Otto Frasher of Barberton, OH. Big Sandy News, Jul 20, 1945

 

GARTIN, John P.

1863-1945

John Preston Gartin, 82, well-known Ashland realtor and former Louisan, died Sunday afternoon at 12:25 p.m. in the King's Daughters' hospital following an illness of 1 month. Mr. Gartin, who developed one of Ashland's largest residential suburbs, was born Jan 28, 1863, in Monroe Co., WV, a son of Jesse W. Gartin and Fair Eleanor Ramey Gartin. His parents moved to Lawrence County, KY, when he was 8 years old, where he attended the Lawrence County common schools. On Jan 24, 1891, he was married to Elizabeth Moore Gartin, who survived him. To this union were born 4 sons, 2 of whom, Otto C. Gartin and Joe W. Gartin, both of Ashland, survive their father. Two sons, Blake and John Paul Gartin preceded him in death. Also surviving are an adopted son, Jack Dean Gartin, U. S. Navy, a brother, Eliah A. Gartin, Ashland, 1 sister, Melva Gartin, New York and 3 grandchildren, John P., Otto C and Betty Jean Gartin. Mr. Gartin had been a loyal member of the Baptist Church for more than 50 years. His membership at the time was with the First Baptist Church, Ashland, KY. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Louisa, KY and belonged to the Ashland Real Estate Board. Mr. Gartin, during his residence in Lawrence county, operated a hotel and store. He also served as county treasurer and deputy sheriff and was engaged in the real estate business during a period of his residence here. He moved to Ashland in 1921 where he had been very active in the real estate business as owner and agent. Shortly after moving to Ashland, he purchased the Hugh Faulkner Farm, which was subdivided into building lots and streets, which is Big Sandy News, Jul 13, 1945

 

GRAHAM, L. W.

W. Graham, 78, well known farmer, of the Cherokee community, died at his home Monday, Jul 23 at 4:30 a.m. He was born at Cherokee, a son of the late William and Sarah Wellman Graham. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the home. Interment was made in the Graham family cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Berta Cooper Graham; 1 son, Woodrow, now at home after 6 years Army service, 1 sister, Mrs. F. H. Moore of Winchester, KY, 2 brothers, Van Graham of Cherokee and J. N. Graham of Spokane, WA. Big Sandy News, Jul 27, 1945

 

HARDIN, D. B

Pfc. D. B. Hardin, husband of Mrs. Marlene Chapman Hardin, and son of Mrs. William H. Hardin, was killed in action Mar 22 on Luzon Island, Philippines. Pfc. Hardin entered the service in July 1944 and had been overseas since December. He was with the 149th Infantry. Pfc. Hardin gave his life for his country, Mar 22 on Luzon Island, Philippines, Pfc. Hardin death occurred during a hazardous engagement against the enemy in the Zambales Mountains, near Baniban, Luzon Island. The had captured an enemy fortified position on the 21st of March and set-up a defensive position to hold this high ground. All during the night they received harassing enemy fire from machine guns, mortars and snipers. At dawn on the 22 the enemy counter-attacked under a heavy mortar barrage. Boone was hit by shrapnel as the enemy was driven back. He was killed instantly. His body was interred in the United States Armed Force Cemetery at Manila, Luzon Island, Philippines, as was stated by the commanding officer of the 149th Infantry. He also spoke of Pfc. Hardin's faithfulness and devotion to duty, and the high esteem in which he was held by member of this company and expressed their deepest sympathy. His wife, Mrs. Marlene Chapman Hardin and small son, Dannie Lee, reside with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Z. W. Chapman at Gallup. His mother, Mrs. William H. Hardin also resides at Gallup. Big Sandy News, Jul 20,1 945

 

HARDIN, Mary E. (James)

Mrs. Mary E. Hardin, 75, died in a Paintsville hospital, Jul 5, where she had been a patient for a short time. She was the wife of J. W. Hardin, retired businessman of Inez. Mrs. Hardin was from a large and prominent family, being the daughter of the late Martha and Joseph James of Inez. Funeral services were held Jul 8 in Inez and burial was made in the family cemetery there. She is survived by her husband, 3 sons, Frank Hardin of Inez, KY, Theodore Hardin of Portsmouth, OH, Joe W. Hardin of Wheeling, WV and 2 daughters, Mrs. Maude Roberts of Akron, OH and Mrs. Laura Salmons of Stalling, WV; 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jul 13, 1945

 

PACK, Mary Joyce

Mary Joyce Pack, 2 day old infant daughter of Laudie John Pack and Betty Louise Daniel Pack, passed away in a local hospital Thursday, Jul 5 at 4 a.m. Funeral services will be held today at 1 p.m. in the Pack Cemetery at Charley. She is survived by the parents, grandfather, R. H. Pack, of Louisa and grandmother, Mrs. Madge Shannon of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Jul 6, 1945

 

PARKER, Woodrow

Woodrow Parker, 21, was killed Jul 5, in Baltimore, MD, when he fell from the roof of a building on which he was painting. It is believed that he was attacked by a dog which was tethered on the roof and in trying to escape moved too close to the edge and losing his balance fell to the pavement below. Under the body was found a paint brush attached to a long stick or handle with which it is thought Parker was trying to fend off the dog. Parker, the son of Mrs. Nolda Hickman Parker, and the late Blaine Parker of Louisa, had been working in Baltimore for the past 3 years. He had been a member of the First Methodist Church here for 5 years. Funeral services were held at the Freewill Baptist church in Louisa, Monday Jul 9 at 2:30 p.m. with the pastor, Rev. William W. Moore, and J. C. Hager officiating. Burial was made in the Cox Cemetery on Lick Creek. He is survived by his mother, 4 sisters, Mrs. Arville Artrip of Barberton, OH, Mrs. Arville Mullins of Louisa, Martha Jane and Betty Parker, at home, 1 brother, Thomas Parker, serving with the U. S. Army in the South Pacific. Big Sandy News, Jul 13, 1945

 

PAULEY, Tennessee (Watts)

Mrs. Tennessee Watts Pauley, 80, wife of U. S. Pauley, died at the home at Fort Gay, route 1, in the Mill Creek section, Saturday, Jul 21 at 5 a.m. She was born at Genoa, WV and had been a member of the Baptist Church since girlhood. Funeral services were held Monday, Jul 23 at 10:30 a.m. at Saltpetre Church at Saltpetre, WV with Rev. J. C. Hager officiating and burial was made in the Lynch Cemetery. She is survived by 4 step daughters, Mrs. L. M. Salmons and Mrs. Lula Stamey, of Saltpetre, Mrs. Minnie Adkins of Ceredo, WV, Mrs. L. R. Philpott of Bassett, WV; 5 stepsons, Thomas Pauley of New Boston, OH, William Pauley of Saltpetre, U. S. Pauley, Jr. of Delbarton, WV, Robert Pauley of Portsmouth, VA and Con Pauley of Newport News, VA; 2 sister, 1 brother and 14 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jul 27, 1945

 

ROBERTS, Amba Lee (Prince)

Amba Lee Roberts, 50, wife of William Roberts of Adams, passed away at her home Sunday Jul 1 at 1:30 p.m. She was a daughter of Mrs. Florence Whitt Prince and the late John Prince of Adams. She had been a member of the Methodist Church for 35 years. Funeral services were held Tuesday Jul 3 at 2:30 p.m. from the home and burial was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by her husband, 6 sons, Orian of Sprinfield, OH, John of Columbus, Jack of the U. S. Army recently released German prisoner of ward, Henry with the U. S. Army in Alaska, Garland and Noah at home, her mother, Mrs. John Prince of Adams, 2 sisters, Mrs. Milt Fugate of Adams, and Mrs. Chester Roberts of Sharpsville, PA, 3 brothers, Dave Prince of route 3, Louisa, Mason and Noah Prince of Adams. Big Sandy News, Jul 6, 1945

 

ROBINETT, Flem, Jr.

Flem Robinett, Jr., 62, farmer, died at his home at route 1, Louisa, Sunday, Jul 15 at 9:20 p.m. following an illness of 5 months. He was born at Adams, a son of the late William T. Robinett and Sarah Fraley Robinett. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Elizabeth Jarrell Church on Lick Creek with the Rev. S. B. Ball officiating. Burial was made in the Stratton Cemetery at Torchlight. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Maggie Marshall Robinett, 4 daughters, Miss Dorothy Robinett of London, OH, Mrs. Cass Dutton of Mechanicsburg, OH, and Misses Lana and Sarah Ann, at home; 7 sons, Franklin with the Army in Newfoundland, Scott, with the Army in Germany, Albert and Kermit, with the Navy in the Philippines, Ben, Freddy Lee and Kenneth, at home; 6 brothers, Will of Chapman, Pete of Louisa, Kelley of route 1, Louisa, Cleveland of Louisa, John of Louisa and Mont of Chapman. Big Sandy News, Jul 20, 1945

 

SHAFFER, W. B.

B. Shaffer, 60, retired locomotive engineer for the C & O Railway died Monday morning at 5 a.m. at his home in Louisa following a serious illness of the past 2 months. Mr. Shaffer was born at Ingleside, WV, a son of the late John L. and Ellen Robin Shaffer, moving to Louisa 8 years ago from Erwin, TN. He belonged to the Baptist Church and was a 32nd degree Mason, being a member of the Masonic Lodge of Knoxville, TN. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Louisa Baptist Church with the Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor, officiating. Burial was in the Meek Cemetery near Busseyville. Surviving are the wife, Mrs. Rebecca Meek Shaffer, 1 step daughter, Mrs. Ross Dennis, Louisa and 1 sister, Mrs. Everett Bailey, Bluefield, WV. Big Sandy News, Jul 13, 1945

 

SIPPLE, Fred

Fred See Sipple, 70, of Fort Gay, WV died last Wednesday in a Huntington hospital. Mr. Sipple, son of the late James and Eliza Wilson Sipple, was a retired Fort Gay carpenter. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Friday morning at the Fort Gay Methodist Church. Burial was in Frazier Cemetery with Rev. Henry Mullins officiating. he is survived by his wife, Rebecca Frazier, Sipple, with whom he had been married 51 years, 1 daughter, Mrs. Paul Billups of Fort Gay, 1 son, Oscar J. Sipple of Fort Gay, 3 sisters, Mrs. Emma Billips, Mrs. Maude Peters, Lakewood, OH and Mrs. Betty Tromboltz of Canton, OH, and 3 brothers, Willie and Wilburn of Los Angeles, CA and Lee of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Jul 6, 1945

 

WELLS, Martha (Webb)

Mrs. Martha Webb Wells, 73, Ashland, died last Thursday after an illness of 4 months. She was born at Webbville, KY, the daughter of Wesley Webb and Abbie Jane Pennington Webb, both natives of Webbville. Mrs. Wells had resided in Ashland since 1909 and was a member of the Unity Baptist Church. She is survived by 6 sons, Roy, of Middletown, OH, Ira and Fred of Ashland, Ernest of Pt. Pleasant, WV, Harry of Huntington, and Charles of Ironton, by 4 daughters, Mrs. Carey Thomas, Ashland, Mrs. W. F. Johnson, Ashland, Mrs. Russell Hogsten of Ashland, and Mrs. Fred Mollett of South Point, OH and by 1 brother, Wylie Webb of Webbville. There are  33 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, also surviving. Private First Class Ira E. Wells, Jr., U. S. Army foreign service and Mrs. Evelyn Gallagher of Louisville, 2 of the grandchildren were reared from infancy by Mrs. Wells. Big Sandy news, Jul 13, 1945

 

WOOTEN, William

William Wooten, 84, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Perl Frazier, at Newcomb, Louisa, route 4, on Monday Jul 16 at 10:30 a.m. He was born in Gallia County, OH, a son of the late Alvin and Lucinda Runyon Wooten. He had lived at Newcomb for the past 39 yeas and had been a life long member of the Methodist Church. His wife, Martha Collinsworth Wooten died in 1906. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the Newcomb Church with the Rev. D. A. Hewlett of Fallsburg officiating. He is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Perl Frazier and Mrs. T. G. Clay of Louisa, route 4, and Mrs. Taylor Moore of route 1, Rush, KY, 3 sons, Isaac Wooten of Louisa, route 4, Edward Wooten of Pikeville, KY, and Thomas Wooten of Washington, PA; 3 sisters, Mrs. Mary Robinett of Ashland, Mrs. Rosa Lovejoy of Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Cinda Daniels of Ironton, OH, 19 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Jul 20, 1945

 

 

AUGUST 1945

 

 

BERRY, Martin Van Buren

Martin Van Buren Berry, 94, a retired farmer, and minister, died at 4:10 p.m. Saturday at his home in Ashland, following an illness of 5 weeks. Mr. Berry, a resident of Ashland for the past 3 years, was born in Lawrence County, KY, a son of James and Jincy Adams Berry, both natives of Lawrence County. He was quite well known in Lawrence county having been pastor of the United Baptist Church for a number of years. Funeral services were held Monday at 2 p.m. at the home of a niece, Elizabeth Berry, in Lawrence County with burial in the Berry family cemetery. The funeral party left Ashland at 10 a.m. Monday morning. Surviving are 1 daughter, Mrs. Roxie VanHorn, Ashland and several grand and great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Aug 17, 1945

 

BRYANT, George

George Bryant, 46, passed away at his home at Wilbur, KY Aug 6 at 5:15 p.m. He was a son of Jim Bryant and the late Victoria Edwards Bryant. Funeral services were held today at 10 a.m. at the home and burial was made in Bevins Cemetery. He is survived by his father, his wife, Mrs. Ollie Hayes Bryant, 1 daughter, Avonell; 3 sons, Junior with the U. S. Army in Germany, Troy and Billie, at home; 1 sister, Mrs. Lonzo Church of Lowmansville, KY, 3 brothers, Lys and Virgil Bryant of Berlin Heights, OH and Harrison Bryant of Georges Creek, KY. Big Sandy News, Aug 10,1945

 

BRYANT, James

James Bryant, 84, passed away at his home at Ulysses, KY, Thursday Aug 23 at 8:30 p.m. following an illness of 16 months. His first wife, Victoria Edward Bryant, died 31 years ago. He was married to Tilda Meeks Bryant 29 years ago. He was a son of the late William and Margaret Frances Bryant and had been a member of the Freewill Baptist Church for 20 years. Funeral services were conducted Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the Lick Log Freewill Baptist Church by Rev. Bert Webb and Rev. Walter Skaggs. Interment was made in the Hammers Cemetery near Nelson Branch. He is survived by his widow, 2 daughter, Mrs. Lonza Church of Lowmansville, KY, Mrs. Cecil Bowman of Ulysses, KY, 4 sons, Harrison Bryant of Georges Creek, KY, Lyss, Virgil and Edgar S. Bryant of Berlin Heights, OH. Big Sandy News, Aug 31, 1945

 

BURTON, Carl Ova

Funeral services were held Aug 20 for Carl Ova Burton, 33, who died at his home at Wilbur Aug 19 following an extended illness. He was a son of Mrs. Rosa Burton and the late William Davis Burton, and had been a member of the United Baptist Church for 6 years. The funeral was held at the home of his uncle Oak McKenzie, with the Rev. G. V. Cordie officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery. He is survived by his mother and 4 sisters. Mrs. Julia King of Volga, KY, Mrs. Gartha Adkins and Mrs. Lydia McKenzie of Wilbur, KY and Mrs. Irene Hitchcock of Nellas, WV.  Big Sandy News, Aug 31, 1945

 

CARTER, Lula (Lakin)

Mrs. Lula Lakin Carter, well known and highly respected citizen of Louisa, passed away at her residence on Clay St. during the night of Aug 14. She had lived in Louisa for 27 years, moving here from Yatesville. She was the widow of the late George J. Carter, former well known merchant. Mr. Carter passed away Dec 9, 1941. She is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. C. T. Stewart of Louisa, Mrs. M. B. Vaughan of Henderson, KY, and Mrs. J. W. Ottley of Charlotte, NC, 4 sons, Dan Carter of Elyria, OH, Ernest Carter of Berea, KY, Dr. J. G. Carter of Augusta, KY and George J. Carter, Jr. with the U. S. Army postal service in New York City. Big Sandy News, Aug 17,1945

 

Mrs. Lula Lakin Carter, 70, passes away at her residence on Clay St in Louisa during the night of Aug 14. She  had lived in Louisa for 27 years, moving here from Yatesville. She was born at Zelda, KY, a daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Jane Lakin. She was the widow of the late George J. Carter, former well known merchant and owner of Carters Department Store in Louisa. Mr. Carter passes away Dec 8,1941. Mrs. Carter had been a member of the Methodist Church for 52 years and was a teacher of the Ladies Bible Class of the Louisa Methodist Church. Funeral services were held Saturday at 2:30 p.m. in the Louisa Methodist Church with the Rev. L. M. Rogers officiating. Rev. Rogers was assisted in the service by the Rev. B. R. Lakin. Honorary pallbearers were the member of the Ladies Bible Class and the Mens Bible Class of the Louisa Methodist Church. Her sons and sons-in-law served as active pallbearers. Burial was made in the Pine Hill Cemetery. She is survived by  3 daughters, Mrs. C. T. Stewart of Louisa, Mrs. M. B. Vaughan of Henderson, KY, and Mrs. J. W. Ottley of Charlotte, NC, 4 sons, Dan Carter of Elyria, OH, Ernest Carter of Berea, KY, Dr. J. G. Carter of Augusta, KY and George J. Carter, Jr. with the U. S. Army postal service in New York City, 1 sister, Mrs. Virgie Barber of Lavalette, WV and 1 brother, A. T. Lakin of Newell, WV. Big Sandy News, Aug 24, 1945

 

FERGUSON, N. B.

B. Ferguson, 86 years old of Fort Gay, died Thursday in a Huntington hospital. Burial was made in the Kennedy Cemetery in Wayne county. Surviving are 6 sons, Beecher, Elmer, Frazier and Kermit Ferguson of Huntington and Froebel Ferguson of Rittman, OH, 1 daughter, Miss Flossie Ferguson of Huntington, and 9 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Aug 31, 1945

 

JORDAN, Gertrude (Walters)

1900-1945

Mrs. Gertrude Jordan, Ashland, died Friday at 10 a.m. in an Ashland hospital of injuries suffered Sunday night when she was struck by an automobile at the intersection of 34th and Winchester Avenue. Mrs. Jordan had resided in Ashland for 35 years and was born Jan 12, 1900 in Lawrence County, KY, a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Walters. Surviving are the husband, John W. Jordan, 2 daughters, Mrs. Isabelle Higgins, Ashland and Nancy Jean Jordan, at home; 3 brothers, Clarence Walters, Columbus, OH, Floyd Walters, Marion, OH, and Jas. Walters, Rock Camp, OH and 2 sisters, Mrs. John Brown, South Point, OH and Mrs. Lena Clark, Ironton, OH. Big Sandy News, Aug 10, 1945

 

KITCHEN, Elizabeth

Funeral services for Mrs. Elizabeth Kitchen, 80 years old resident of 3605 Race Street, Catlettsburg, whose death early Saturday morning followed an illness of several years, were held Monday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Pentecostal Church, Hampton City, with burial following in the Williams Cemetery, Ashland, Rev. M. A. Hay, pastor of the church, officiated. Mrs. Kitchen, a native of Lawrence County, KY had been a resident of Catlettsburg for the past 25 years. She was a member of the Methodist Church of Blaine, KY. Surviving are 3 daughters, Mrs. Cobb Lee, Mrs. Cordia Marcum, and Mrs. Effie Ferguson, all of Catlettsburg, 10 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Aug 31, 1945

 

NEWMAN, John B.

John B. Newman, 73, a retired farmer, died at his home, route 2, Daniels Fork, Ashland, Friday following an illness of 5 months. Mr. Newman, a resident of Boyd County for 30 years and a member of the Summit Baptist Church, was born in Wayne county, WV, a son of Rev. Montague M. and Martha Smith Newman, both natives of Wayne county. Among the survivors are Mrs. Ida Clay of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Aug 24, 1945

 

PATRICK, Julia (Hickman)

Julia Patrick, 62, of Torchlight, passed away at a local hospital, Tuesday Jul 31, at 4:30 a.m. following an illness of 7 months. She was a daughter of the late Leander and Nancy Moore Hickman. Funeral services were held Thursday Aug 2 at 2 p.m. in the Moore Chapel on Lick Creek with the Rev. S. B. Ball officiating. Interment was made in the Blackburn Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, Frank Patrick, 3 daughters, Mrs. Monroe Fugitt of Torchlight, Mrs. Wayne Rittenberry of Gallup and Miss Nolda Patrick, at home; 3 sons, Arlie Patrick of Torchlight and Lawrence and Guy Patrick of the U. S. Army in Germany; 1 sister, Mrs. Nolda Parker of Louisa; 2 brothers, Lafe Hickman and Drew Hickman of Torchlight. Big Sandy News, Aug 3, 1945

 

SALYER, John Milton

1858-1945

John Milton Salyer, age 97 years, died Tuesday evening, Aug 14 at the home of his son Patton Salyer at Volga, Floyd County. He was injured in a fall about 6 months ago and his death was caused by this injury. He is survived by the following children, Mrs. Rosa Estep, Prestonsburg, Susannah Johnson, Yatesville, Mrs. Della Sparks, Louisa, Patton, Volga, Isabell Salye, Osborn, OH; Ovie Salyer, Sitka, Pearlie May Salyer, Barnetts Creek and Mary Katherine Slayer, Volga. Big Sandy News, Aug 24, 1945

 

SALYERS, William

William Salyers, 93, one of Lawrence County's oldest citizens, died at his home in Louisa, route 4 near Potter, Monday, Aug 27 at 4:40 p.m. He resided near Potter for the past 18 years and prior to that lived at Paintsville. Born at Ulysses, KY, a son of the late Thomas and Belle Borders Salyers, and had been a member of the Methodist Church since young manhood. His first, wife, Mary Lou Jordan Salyers, passed away 13 years ago and Mr. Salyers married his second wife Martha Howard, a year later. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Curtright Funeral Home with the Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Burial was made in the Pine Hill Cemetery. He is survived by his widow, 2 daughters, Mrs. George H. Skeens of Wagoner, OK and Mrs. J. N. Meek of Paintsville, KY, 1 son, Wayne Salyers of route 4, Louisa, 3 sisters, Mrs. William Remmele and Mrs. Robert Dixon, Sr., both of Louisa, and Mrs. Mae Compton of Columbus, OH, 2 brothers, Sam Salyers and Charlie Salyers of Catlettsburg, KY. Big Sandy News, Aug 31, 1945

 

SCHMAUCH, Alice (Blankenship)

1877-1945

Mrs. Alice Schumauch, 68, of Huntington passed away Saturday a.m. August 25, at the home of her sister, Mrs. M. Childress in Huntington. She was born at Potter, KY, Apr 3, 1877, a daughter of the late William M. and Grizzela Motley Blankenship. She was married to George G. Schmauch, a former building contractor, who passed away in 1931. Mrs. Schmauch was a member of the 2nd Presbyterian Church of Huntington where she had resided for the past 45 years. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon and burial was made in the Woodmere Cemetery in Huntington. She is survived by 4 sons, Paul, Homer, John and Carl, all of Huntington, 4 daughters, Mrs. Herman Lowe and Mrs. Jack Stump of Huntington, Mrs. H. R. Ross of Petersburg, PA, and Mrs. C. E. McClaren of Shreveport, LA; 2 brothers, Arthur Blankenship of Yatesville, KY and Raish Blankenship of Louisa; 2 sisters, Mrs. M. Childress of Huntington and Mrs. Mona Compton of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Aug 31, 1945

 

SHORT, Peggy Jo

Peggy Jo Short, 4 years old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elza Short of Adams, KY, died in a Louisa hospital, Monday at 8:30 p.m. from the injuries suffered in a fall from a moving truck. The accident occurred as the child was riding with her uncle, Shelva Short, near Mattie, KY and the door flew open, causing her to fall upon the highway. She was rushed to the hospital where she died 4 hours later. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at the home with Rev. William W. Moore and W. T. Fraley conducting the rites. Burial was made in the J. M. Short Cemetery near Adams. The little girl is survived by her parents, 1 sister, Betty Louise, 1 brother, Charles Milt, and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Short and Mrs. Charley Moore, all of Adams. Big Sandy News, Aug 24, 1945

 

STURGILL, Nelson, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Sturgill of Martha received a telegram Tuesday from the office of the Secretary of War stating that their son, Nelson Sturgill, Jr. was killed in action on Okinawa on the 16th of June 1945. Big Sandy News, Aug 3, 1945

 

THACKER, Frank H.

Mrs. Mamie Thacker, route 1, Buchanan, has received a letter from the War Department giving the details of the death of her son, Staff Sergeant Frank H. Thacker, who lost his life on Jul 30, 1944. A portion of the letter follows: Dear Mrs. Thacker: The distress you have suffered since you received the sad announcement of your son's death is most understandable and realizing your desire to know the attending circumstances I wish to advise you that an additional report has been received in the War Department. This report disclosed that Sergeant Thacker was killed in the attack on Hill 183, near Vadauville, France, when the company advanced across open field and while crossing this field, you son was caught in cross machine gun fire and was critically wounded. The report stated further that Sergeant Thacker was of excellent character, well known and liked by all member of his company. You have my heartfelt sympathy in your bereavement. Sincerely yours, Edward F. Witsell, Major General. Big Sandy News, Aug 3, 1945

 

WEBB, Mary Elizabeth

Mary Elizabeth Webb, 76, wife of Samuel E. Webb, died at her home at Fort Gay, WV, route 1, Thursday Aug 17 at 7:20 p.m. She was a daughter of the late Olla and Jane Pack Copley and had been a member of the Methodist Church for 50 years. Funeral services were held Sunday at 2 p.m. at the home of a son, Elzie Webb, at Fort Gay, route 1, with the Rev. Grant Raines officiating. Interment was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by her husband, 2 daughters, Mrs. Willie Robertson of Cool Gap, WV and Mrs. Arlie Thompson of Fort Gay, WV, 4 sons, P. J. Webb and H. C. Webb of Kenova, WV, Carmi Webb and Elzie Webb of Fort Gay; 2 brothers, T. L. Copley of Fort Gay and Andrew Copley of Jackson, OH. Big Sandy News, Aug 24, 1945

 

YORK, Ebbie (Wiley) Dobbins

Mrs. Ebbie Dobbins York, 59, wife of E. C. York of Torchlight, died Tuesday Aug 7, following a brief illness. She was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wiley. Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday Aug 8, with Rev. G. York and Rev. Jack See officiating. Interment was made in the York Cemetery at Torchlight. She is survived by her husband, 4 daughters, Mrs. Sam Frazier of Urbana, OH, Mrs. Albert Moore of Louisa, route 1, Mrs. Harrison Scarberry of Irwin, OH, and Miss Roxie Dobbins, at home; 4 sons, Richard, Calvin and Henry Dobbins of Urbana, OH and Billie Dobbins at home; 1 sister, Mrs. George Castle of Olden, OH and 1 brother, Bert Wiley of Lowmansville, KY. Big Sandy News, Aug 17, 1945

 

 

SEPTEMBER 1945

 

BARRETT, Belvie (Dean)

Mrs. Belvie Dean Barrett, 77, widow of Rev. J. A. H. Barrett, passed away in a local hospital Tuesday at 3:55 p.m. following a stroke suffered that morning. She had lived in Louisa with her daughter, Miss Irene Barrett for the past 2 years, moving here from Barboursville, WV, where she had resided for the past 20 years. She was born at Irad, KY, a daughter of the late J. R. and Emily Elizabeth Walter Dean. Funeral services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. in the First Methodist Church in Barboursville with the Rev. A. E. Tulon officiating. Interment was made in Oaklawn Cemetery. Mrs. Barrett had been a member of the Methodist Church for 45 years. Rev. Barrett during his ministry held the following churches, Olioville, Ellen, Elm Grove, KY and Strange Creek, Summersville, Hamlin and Earling, WV. She is survived by 1 daughter, Miss Irene Barrett, office manager in the Louisa General Hospital here; 2 sons, T. 5 Dean Barrett and T. Sgt. Lewis Barrett, both in France; 4 step daughters, Mrs. Joe Darkin of Cincinnati, OH, Mrs. B. T. Jiles of Huntington, WV, Mrs. Clara Jackson of Barboursville, WV, and Mrs. Fred Hirslip of Logan, WV, 3 stepson, Arthur Barrett of Ashland, KY, D. J. Barrett of Huntington, WV, and Paul Barrett of Cincinnati, OH; 1 sister, Mrs. J. C. Graham of Trinity, KY; 2 brothers, R. M. Dean of Ironton, OH and S. F. dean of Gimmona, MO. Big Sandy News, Sep 21, 1945

 

BURCHETT, Wayne Carey

Wayne Carey Burchett, 33, construction engineer, of Lexington, KY, passed away Wednesday at 8:35 p.m. at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Lexington following an illness of several months. A son of D. J. Burchett and Mrs. Gertrude Carey Burchett, he was born and reared in Louisa where he was popularly known and liked. He was married to Elizabeth Bray of Mt. Vernon, KY. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the residence on Jefferson Street with burial in Pine Hill Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Sep 7, 1945

Wayne Carey Burchett, 33, died in a Lexington hospital at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sep 5, following an illness of 3 weeks. He was born and reared in Louisa, a son of D. J. and Gertrude Burchett, and was one of our best known and respected young men. He was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. For the past 3 years he worked at Frankfort, KY as office manager of the State Highway Patrol. Funeral services were held Saturday, sep 8 at 2 p.m. from the Curtright Funeral Home with Dr. S. W. Funk and Rev. L. M. Rogers officiating. Burial was made in Pine Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers were Capt. Ford Hall, Sgt. E. S. Duff and Patrolmen Harold Whittaker, Jesse Engle, Ray Bayes, Carter Cornette, Thomas McAllister, Reginald Reynolds and Roy Waggoner, all of Frankfort. Survivors are his wife, Elizabeth Bray Burchett and his parents. Big Sandy News, Sep 14, 1945

 

COOKSEY, Mortimer

Mortimer Cooksey, 54, Ashland, succumbed Sep 12 in the Veterans' Hospital at Huntington following a long illness. He was born in Lawrence County at Dennis, KY, a son of Labe and Cyrena Foster Cooksey, and had resided in Ashland for the past 55 years. He was a member of Clarence Fields Post #76, American Legion, and a veteran of World War I. Surviving are 4 brothers, W.H. Cooksey and Hobart Cooksey, both of Ashland, Andy Cooksey, South Charleston, WV and Oscar Cooksey, Catlettsburg, route 2 and 2 sisters, Mrs. Viola Moore and Mrs. Betty Edmond, both of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Sep 21, 1945

 

EVANS, Carrie

Mrs. Carrie Evans, died Thursday, Sep 20 at 1:30 p.m. at the home of her son, Henry R. Evans in Russell, KY. A native of Blaine, Mrs. Evans had been in critical condition for the past 3 days. She had been in ill health for more than a year. Funeral services were conducted at 10:30 Saturday morning at the Blaine Church of God of which she was a devout and faithful member. Burial was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by her husband, J. J. Evans and one son, Henry R. Evans. Big Sandy news, Sep 28, 1945

 

FRAZIER, James

James Frazier, 89, of Fort Gay, WV, route 1, died at his home Monday at 11:20 p.m. following a brief illness. He was the son of the late John and Sarah Ann Wellman Frazier and was a lifelong resident of Wayne county. He was a member of the Spruce Lick Baptist Church for 65 years. His wife, Virginia Ferguson Frazier, died in 1929. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Tabors Creek Baptist Church by Dr. B. R. Lakin and Rev. Ben Curnutte. Interment was made in the Ferguson Cemetery near Fort Gay. His grandsons acted as pallbearers. He is survived by 6 daughters, Mrs. John Frasher of Kenova, WV, Mrs. W. H. Peters of Huntington, Mrs. James Lakin and Mrs. Belle Mickel of Fort Gay, Miss Anna Frazier and Miss Fanny Frazier at home; 3 sons, Elmer Frazier of Portsmouth, OH, Luther and Clyde Frazier of Fort Gay; 1 sister, Mrs. P. A. Akers of Ceredo, WV, 27 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Sep 7, 1945

 

HALL, Grace

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Sep 11 at the Cordell Cemetery on Brushey for Grace Hall, infant daughter of Daniel and Elsie Cordle Hall. Rev. Jerry Cordle officiated. Big Sandy News, Sep 21, 1945

 

MATNEY, Elsie (Livisay)

Mrs. Elsie Livisay Matney, 46 years of age, colored, wife of Harry P. Matney of Fort Gay, WV, passed away at her home Wednesday at 2:30 a.m. following an illness of 4 months. She was born and reared at Fort Gay, a daughter of Grant and Mary Osborne Livisay. Mrs. Matney was a teacher in the West Virginia schools for 18 years, teaching in Thacker, Barboursville, Udda and Fort Gay, WV, A talented musician she also taught music for 29 years. She had been a member of the A.M.E. Church for 32 years. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday at 5 p.m. at the residence by Rev. J. C. Hager and Rev. March Robinson. Interment will be made in the Livisay cemetery at Fort Gay. Surviving are her husband, her parents, 2 daughters, Mrs. Paul Napier of Montclair, NJ and Jane Audrey, at home, 1 son, Sgt. Harry P. Matney, Jr., with the U. S. Army in Europe; 4 brothers, Charles O. Livisay of Lexington, KY, Carter H. Livisay of Huntington, Tom Livisay of Fort Gay and J. P. Livisay of Princeton, WV. Big Sandy News, Sep 7, 1945

 

MCCLURE, Thomas Salyer

Funeral services for Thomas Salyer McClure, 86, Ashland, who died at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Ornollas J. Wright, after an illness of 2 years, were held Thursday at the Second Methodist Church with the Rev. R. a. Lenos, pastor, the Rev. L. D. Smith and Rev. J. D. Hamilton, officiating. Burial was made in the Ashland Cemetery. Mr. McClure was a retired real estate dealer, stock dealer and farmer in Lawrence County, where he resided until 24 years ago. He was a member of the Methodist Church. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Alice McClure, 1 son, George C. McClure, Ironton, OH, 2 daughters, Mrs. Wright of Ashland and Mrs. Fred Franklin of Portsmouth, VA; 1 sister, Mrs. Julia Atkinson, Omaha, NB and 9 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Sep 7, 1945

 

MERCHANT, Joseph U.

Joseph U. Merchant, 73, of Ferguson, WV, widely-known farmer of Wayne county and eastern Kentucky and a brother in law of Fred M. Vinson, secretary of the treasury, died at 5:50 p.m. Thursday in a Huntington hospital following an illness of more than a year. Also widely known in Cabell county, Mr. Merchant was born in Mineral City, OH and resided in Kentucky prior to establishing his residence in Ferguson a number of years ago. He was a son of the late Thomas Isaac Merchant and Susan Narrigan Merchant of Mineral City, OH. He was a veteran of the Spanish-American War and saw action in Cuba during the war. Mr. Merchant's wife, the former Miss Georgie Ann Vinson, sister of the secretary of the treasury, died in 1934. Surviving are 3 sons, Vinson Merchant of Ferguson, James R. Merchant of Long View, WA and Fred Merchant of Huntington; 4 daughters, Mrs. Virginia Finley of Ferguson, Mrs. H. B. Marcum of South Charleston, Mrs. E. C. Hirling and Mrs. J. G. Majeski, both of Ferguson; 1 brother, William Merchant of Tarentum, PA; 2 brothers in law, Fred M. Vinson and Robert Vinson, postmaster at Louisa and a sister in law, Miss Lou Vinson of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Sep 14, 1945

 

PRINCE, Allen P.

1888-1945

Allen P. Prince, 57, died at 3:30 p.m. Saturday at his home, 1837 13th Street, Ashland, after a brief illness. Mr. Prince was born in Lawrence County, KY, Jun 27, 1888, and had resided in Ashland for the past 27 years. He was a watch repairman. Funeral services were conducted Monday at 2:30 p.m. from the Pollard Baptist Church with the Rev. G. G. Lanter, pastor, officiating. Burial was made in Dixon Cemetery. Surviving are 2 sons, Lonnie and James M. Prince both of Ashland and a half brother, P. W. Hensley, Coal Grove, OH. Big Sandy news, Sep 28,1 945

 

ROBINSON, Walker

Walker Robinson, 41, Paintsville newspaper publisher, business man and Democratic nominee for circuit judge in the 24th judicial district, died at West Baden Springs, IN Monday night of last week of a heart ailment. Robinson, owner and publisher of the Paintsville Herald, had gone to West Baden Springs for medical treatment and a rest. His death came unexpectedly however. In addition to his newspaper, Robinson owned interest in coal mines in Pikeville, KY and Kermit, WV, and recently purchased coal properties in Johnson County, KY. He formerly had published a newspaper at Danville, KY. Funeral services were conducted at Lancaster, KY. Survivors include his widow, 2 daughters, and his father, George D. Robinson, Lancaster. Big Sandy News, Sep 7,1 945

 

SONGER, Jeff B. (Note: The name Jeff is incorrect and should be Jess)

Jeff B. Songer of Paintsville, KY, a locomotive engineer on the Big Sandy division of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, died suddenly Tuesday afternoon while en route home from Huntington. Mr. Songer, with his son in law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Grady Stafford of Paintsville, had been visiting Mr. Songer's stepmother, Mrs. T. C. Songer, 419 West Eleventh Ave. Funeral services sere conducted at 2 p.m. Thursday in Paintsville, and burial took place in the Louisa Cemetery. In addition to the stepmother and daughter he is survived by a son, Sergeant Jeff (should be Jess) B. Songer, Jr. Camp Crowder, MO and 2 brothers, Fred W. Songer of Ashland and Clifford M. Songer of Charleston, SC. Big Sandy News, Sep 7, 1945

 

SPENCER, Luther

Luther Spencer, 61, years old, died at his home at Charley, KY Sunday at 4:30 a.m. Funeral services were held Tuesday at the residence with Rev. Arlie Blackburn and Rev. Charlie Moore officiating. Burial was made in the Spencer family cemetery. Mr. Spencer, a coal miner, was the son of Mrs. Martha Moore Spencer and the late David Spencer. His first wife, Mrs. Fannie Adams Spencer, died in 1906. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Grace Ison Spencer; his mother, 6 daughters, Miss Ina B. Spencer of Charley, Mrs. Tom Green of Detroit, MI, Mrs. Okey Browning of Ashland, Mrs. R. L. Hash of Peach Creek, WV, Miss Lois Spencer of Charley, Mrs. William Bertikidis of Pennsylvania; 3 sons, William Davis Spencer of Ashland, Caramel Spencer of Cleveland, OH, Chester Lewis Spencer, USN, in the South Pacific, 1 sister, Miss Ella Spencer of Charley, 1 brother, the Rev. A. L. Spencer of Kingston, OH. Big Sandy News, Sep 7, 1945

 

WEBB, Arminta

Mrs. Arminta Webb, 85, passed away Sep 6, at the home of her son, Elliott Webb of Circleville, OH. She had been ill for the past 6 months. The body was brought to Fort Gay where funeral services were held Sunday Sep 9 at 2:30 p.m. with the Rev. Edgar Lynch officiating. Burial was made in the Frasher Cemetery. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. William Roberts of Tulsa, OK and Mrs. Sam Childers of Radford, WV; 2 sons, Willard Webb of Scott, WV, and Elliott Webb of Circleville, OH. Big Sandy News, Sep 21,1 945

 

WHEELER, Peter Taylor

Peter Taylor Wheeler, 72, of Lexington, KY, was killed on Aug 24 when his car collided with a gravel truck at the foot of Shade mountain in Breathitt County according to the Paintsville Herald. He was born at Winifred, the son of James and Mahala Sparks Wheeler, After graduating from law school, he located at Hazard in Perry County in the year of 1900 and resided there with his family until he moved to Lexington a year ago. At the time he located in Hazard, he envisioned the riches in coal and mineral products of the Kentucky River Valley, although there was no railroad or other means of transportation at that time. He looked forward to the development of the coal industry and lived to see this valley traversed with railroads and highways. Early in his legal work, he became associated with and was until his death, chief counsel for the Kentucky River Coal Corporation, a holding company, which owned much of the coal lands in Perry and adjoining counties. Besides his widow, he is survived by 4 daughters, and 1 son, a dentist of Hazard, also 1 sister, Rachel, 1 brother, Henry Wheeler, and 3 half brothers and 3 half sisters. Mr. Wheeler has many relatives and friends in Johnson and Lawrence Counties who will regret to learn of his tragic death. Funeral services were held at the Emanuel Baptist Church, Lexington, on Monday and interment was made in a Lexington Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Sep 7, 1945

 

 

OCTOBER 1945

 

BALL, Blaine

Blaine Ball, 60, well known farmer, died at his home on route 4, near Fallsburg, Tuesday Oct 9 at 7:45 p.m. He was born at Adams, a son of the late Elza and Florene Berry Ball and moved to the Fallsburg section 30 years ago. He had been a member of the Methodist Church since boyhood. Funeral services were held today at 2 p.m. at the Savage Memorial Church and interment was made in the Short Cemetery on Deephole road. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Martha Short Ball, 4 daughters. Mrs. Webb Roberts, Cadmus, KY, Mrs. A. L. Taylor, public health nurse, Ashland, Miss Jacqueline Faye Hall, cadet nurse, Huntington, WV, Miss Sarah June Ball, at home, 6 sons, James Staten Ball, route 3, Louisa, Arnold Ball, route 4, Louisa, Clement M. Ball, U. S. Navy, Daniel Delbert Ball, University of KY, Lexington, Mont William Ball, U. s. Navy, Blaine Ball, Jr., at home; 15 grandchildren, 5 sisters, Mrs. S. W. Fugitt, Gallup, KY, Mrs. Henry Roberts and Mrs. Dennie Burton, Adams, KY, Mrs. Jay Carter, Huntington, WV, Mrs. Ruby Carter, Columbus, OH, 3 brothers, Jim Ball, Huntington, WV, Mont Ball, Columbus, OH, Drew Ball, Sheridanville, PA. Big Sandy News, Oct 12, 1945

 

BLACKBURN, Mary Rogania (Moore)

Mrs. Mary Rogania Blackburn, 80, widow of the late Peyton Blackburn, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. D. S. Martin of Little Blaine, Tuesday at 6:45 a.m. following an illness of five weeks. She was a daughter of the late David and Angeline Thompson Moore. Funeral services were held Thursday at 10:30 a.m. in Moore's Chapel on Lick Creek with Rev. William W. Moore and Rev. W. L. Hooper officiating. Burial was made in the Blackburn Cemetery. The body was taken from the Curtright Funeral Home to the home of her son, Harlan Blackburn, on Lick Creek where it remained until the hour of the funeral. She is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. J. E. Lathan of Columbus, OH, Mrs. D. S. Martin of Louisa, route 1 and Mrs. J. O. McAdams of Westerville, OH; 1 son, Harland Blackburn, of Louisa, route 1. Big Sandy News, Oct 19, 1945

 

BURCHETT, John C.

John C. Burchett, 69, passed away in a Louisa hospital, Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. following an illness of 5 days. A son of the late Major Drew J. Burchett and Adelaide Jones Burchett, he was born in Louisa and resided here most of his life. He lived for a number of years in Williamson, WV where he was engaged in the lumber business until his retirement 15 years ago. Mr. Burchett had been a member of the Presbyterian Church for 25 years. Funeral services will be held today at 2:30 p.m. from the Curtright Funeral Home with the Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the First Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be made in Pine Hill Cemetery. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mrs. Bess Hanley Burchett who passed away Jan 12, 1945. Surviving are 3 sisters, Mrs. John F. Ratcliff, and Mrs. G. R. Vinson of Louisa and Mrs. Adelaide Biggs of Mt. Sterling, KY and 1 brother, D. J. Burchett of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Oct 26, 1945

 

BURCHETT, Thomas H.

Thomas H. Burchett, 79, retired farmer and livestock dealer of route 3, Louisa, the Deephole section, died in a Lexington hospital Wednesday at 2 a.m. He had been in ill health for 2 years and seriously ill for the past 6 weeks. Mr. Burchett was a member of the First Baptist Church. The body was brought to the Curtright Funeral Home here on Wednesday afternoon and was taken to the residence this morning. Funeral services will be held there at 2 p.m. Saturday, conducted by Rev. L. M. Rogers. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Maggie Cooper Burchett; 4 daughters, Mrs. Maude Johnson of Clarksburg, WV, Mrs. C. H. Preece of Louisa, route 3, Mrs. E. A. Jensen of San Francisco, CA, Mrs. Gladys Hall of Lexington, KY; 5 sons, Arthur Burchett of Huntington, WV, Fulton L. Burchett, CM 1-c with the Seabees in the South Pacific, Robert W. Burchett, recently discharged Staff Sergeant of the Air Force, Olliver T. Burchett, MM 1-c, recently discharged from the Seabees, and George Burchett of Los Angeles, CA. Big Sandy News, Oct 19, 1945

 

BURCHETT, William

William Burchett, 84 years old passed away at his home at Yatesville, KY, Sep 27 at 6:30 p.m. He had lived at Yatesville for the past 50 years, moving from Floyd County, KY. A son of the late George and Mary Hunt Burchett, he was married to Miss Annie Ross 50 years ago. Funeral services were held Saturday, Sep 29 at the home with the Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating. Burial was made in the Fannin cemetery. Surviving are his widow, 1 daughter, Mrs. Floyd Harford of Wallake, MI, 4 sons, Lewis and Orville Burchett of Yatesville, Albert Burchett of Cadmus, and Winferd Burchett of route 3, Louisa, 2 brothers, John Burchett of Yatesville and Joe Burchett of Cadmus. Big Sandy News, Oct 5, 1945

 

EVANS, J. J.

Funeral services for the late J. J. Evans, 76, were conducted Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of God, Blaine. The Rev. Asa Hay officiated at the last rites. Burial was made in the Edwards Cemetery. Mr. Evans was stricken with a heart attack on the previous Wednesday night and was rushed to an Ironton hospital. He had made his home with his son, Henry Evans, at Russell for the past few months. His death came as a severe shock to his many friends in Lawrence County, following as it did that of his wife, Mrs. Carrie Evans, whose death occurred 2 weeks earlier. He is survived by 1 son, Henry R. Evans, principal of Russell Senior High School, 2 brothers, M. W. Evans and Walter Evans, both of California. Big Sandy News, Oct 19, 1945

 

FITCH, Elizabeth

Elizabeth Fitch, 67, of Georges Creek, KY, died in a local hospital Wednesday at 1 p.m. She was the widow of the late James Fitch who passed away in 1932. A daughter of the late James and Clearandia Robinson Milum, she had been a member of the Methodist Church since girlhood. Funeral arrangements are incomplete pending the arrival of a son, Stephen G. Fitch who has been serving with the U. S. Army in the South Pacific and is now on the way home. Burial will be made in the Preston Cemetery, at Georges Creek. She is survived by 4 sons, Marvin Milum of Georges Creek, Arthur Adams of Louisa, route 1, Worth Adams, of Georges Creek and Stephen G. Fitch, U. S. Army, 1 sister, Mrs. Garred Preston of Georges Creek and 1 brother, Hiram Bascom Milum of Pikeville, KY. Big Sandy News, Oct 26, 1945

 

HAMMOND, Peggy Joyce

Peggy Joyce Hammond of Webb, WV, route 1, Rockcastle section of Lawrence County, passed away at the home Oct 8 at 8 a.m. following an illness of 4 weeks. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Grady Hammond. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at the home with Rev. Rush Frazier officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery. She is survived by the parents, 3 sisters, Garnet, Royetta and Wanda Jane, all at home; 4 brothers, Charles, Jarred, Earl Lee and Lonnie, at home. Big Sandy News, Oct 12, 1945

 

JOBE, Myrla Sue (Ranson)

Mrs. Myrla Sue Ranson Jobe, 33, passed away at her home at Busseyville, Wednesday, Oct 10, at 6:15 a.m. A daughter of the late Thad Ranson and Mrs. Martha Elizabeth Pigg Ranson, she was born near Louisa and had lived there all her life until moving to Busseyville 1 year ago. She had been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church for 13 years. Funeral services were held today at 11 a.m. in the Myrtle Chapel on Five Forks with the Rev. J. C. Hager officiating. Interment was made in the Myrtle Chapel Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, Goble Jobe, 2 sisters, Mrs. D. D. Cooksey of Ashland and Mrs. David E. Rice of Louisa, 3 brothers, Paul Ranson of Charleston, WV, Herb Ranson of Ashland and Robert Ranson of the U. S. Navy. Big Sandy News, Oct 12, 1945

 

MOORE, Syrilda Juanita

Syrilda Juanita Moore, aged 2 months and 6 days, passed away in a local hospital Wednesday afternoon, Oct 10. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elbert Moore of Louisa, route 1, the Lick Creek section. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. from the home with burial in Collins Cemetery. She is survived by her parents, 1 sister, 1 brother and her grandmother, Mrs. Sarah Ellen Moore of Catlettsburg. Big Sandy News, Oct 12, 1945

 

PERRY, Arnold

Arnold Perry, 64 years old of Mill Creek, Wayne county, died at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at his home. The body was taken to the residence from the Booton Funeral Home at Wayne at 11 a.m. Thursday. Funeral arrangements are incomplete. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Minnie Perry, 3 sons, Albert J. Perry of Kenova and Herbart A. and Walter A. Perry. both with the Army, 5 daughters, Mrs. Okey Hinkle and Mrs. Fred Ross of Raysal, WV, Mrs. Carl Frazier of Fort gay, Mrs. Zena Tolliver of Jewell City, VA and Miss Myrtle Perry at home; 4 brothers, Gus and Aley Perry of Genoa, WV, Ballard Perry of Missouri Branch and Fred Perry of Fort Gay and 2 sisters, Mrs. Nettie Harvey of Fort Gay and Mrs. Mary Stiltner of Huntington. Big Sandy News, Oct 5, 1945

 

REYNOLDS, Bessie

Mrs. Bessie Reynolds, 53, of Fort Gay, WV, passed away in a local hospital Thursday, Oct 4, at 5 p.m. following an illness of 5 weeks. She was the wife of Allen C. Reynolds. They had lived in Fort Gay for the past 25 years moving there from Nolan, WV. Funeral services were held Sunday at 2 p.m. in the Methodist Church with Rev. Enos Scraggs and Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Burial was made in the Fort Gay Cemetery. Surviving besides her husband are 1 daughter, Mrs. John Null of Detroit, MI and 1 granddaughter, Fay Livingston of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Oct 12, 1945

 

RICE, Walter E.

Walter E. Rice, 37, former Clayton-Lambert Mfg. Co employee, died Wednesday Oct 17 at 3:15 p.m. at his home in Ashland after an illness of 7 months. Mr. Rice was born in Lawrence County, KY, a son of the late Edmond and Viola Browning Rice. He had resided in Ashland for the past 12 years. Funeral services were conducted Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. from the Nazarene Church, 22nd Street and Bath Ave, with the Rev. G. A. Gough, pastor, officiating, assisted by Rev. Jesse Oakley. Burial was made in the Ashland Cemetery. Surviving is the widow, Mrs. Catherine Clark Rice. Big Sandy News, Oct 26, 1945

 

SHORT, Henry

Henry Short, 56, died in a Columbus, OH hospital, Friday, Oct 5 at 10 p.m. following a brief illness. He was the son of Strother Short and the late Mrs. Armilda Bishop Short. He was a member of the American Legions. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 2 p.m. from the home at Cordell. Burial was made in the Short Cemetery. He is survived by his father, 3 sisters, Miss Della Short, Mrs. Garfield Cordle and Mrs. H. M. O'Bryan, all of Cordell; 2 brothers, Jay Short of Cordell and Jesse Short of Columbus, OH. Big Sandy News, Oct 12, 1945

 

WOODS, Jesse K.

Jesse K. Woods, 83 years old, a life time resident of Lawrence County passed away at his home on Little Catt Creek Saturday, Oct 6. Mr. Woods was a retired cattle dealer and before his retirement was active in church and community life. He was buried near his home on Oct 9 with the Kilgore and Collier Funeral Home, Catlettsburg, officiating. His funeral was preached by Judge Andrew Kiser, Grayson, KY, in the Baker Methodist Church. About 500 relatives and friends gathered to show him their last respects. The pallbearers were Lawrence Woods, Bob Woods, John Woods, Watt Woods, Milt Bradley, Ike Fannin and Hobart Smith. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Iona Bradley Woods, 2 daughters, Mrs. R. M. Horton, Ashland, KY, Mrs. Frank Moore, Louisa, route 1, 7 sons, S. D. Woods, Grundy, VA, C. H. Woods, Cannonsburg, KY, Jesse K. Woods, Jr., at home, Z. B. Woods, Webbville, KY, J. W. Woods, Berkley, WV, Ephram Woods, Ashland, KY, Andrew J. Woods, U. S. South Pacific, and a foster son, Ray Woods, at home. He also leaves 15 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Oct 14, 1945

 

 

NOVEMBER 1945

 

 

BOSTICK, Carrie

Mrs. Carrie Bostick, 59, daughter of Capt, O.M. and Eda Frasher, died Aug 29,1945 in a Grayson hospital following a week's illness. She was united in marriage to G. M. Bostick in 1904. To this union were born 11 children, 2 of whom preceded her in death. Mrs. Bostick was converted 40 years ago and lived a true Christian life. Funeral services were conducted Friday, Aug 31 in the Grand Lick Church with Rev. J. C. Cremeans, Ashland, officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery at Frost, KY. She is survived by her husband, 9 children, William Bostick of Dayton, OH, Delbert Bostick of Toronto, OH, Robert Bostick of Ashland, KY, Winston Bostick of Portsmouth, OH, S. Sgt. Tolbert Bostick, now in Germany, John and Howard Bostick, U. s. Navy, Mrs. Eda Hanners of Dayton, OH, Mrs. Mary Barker of Baltimore, MD, 1 brother, M. C. Frasher of Zelda, KY and 19 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Nov 16, 1945

 

BRADLEY, Eva

Mrs. Eva Bradley, 84, widow of Ira J. Bradley of Fort Gay, WV, passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Willard Meade, Sunday evening, Nov 25. She was a daughter of the late G. W. and Sarah Clevenger Steel and had lived in Fort Gay for the past 47 years, moving there from Blaine. Mrs. Bradley had been a member of the Methodist Church for more than 50 years. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Methodist church in Fort Gay and burial was made in the Beaire Cemetery. Surviving are 1 daughter, Mrs. Willard Meade, 1 son, Thomas Strother of Logan, WV and a brother, Joshua Steel of Middletown, OH. Big Sandy News, Nov 30, 1945

 

BURCHETT, James Wyle

James Wyle Burchett, 56, miner and farmer, passed away in a veterans hospital in Lexington, KY Oct 26 at 1:40 a.m. He had been a patient in the hospital for 1 month His home was at Louisa, route 3, in the Twin Branch section. He was a son of the late John and Emily Berry Burchett. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Burchett Cemetery on Deephole Branch Road. W. O. Johnson Post American Legion, of which Mr. Burchett was a member, performed their ritual at the grave. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Dixie Burton Burchett; 2 daughters, Mrs. Herbert Diamond of Louisa, route 3, and Miss Opal Burchett at home; 3 sons, Dave, Ray and Ben, at home, 3 sisters, Mrs. Mont Wheeler, Louisa, Mrs. Estill Salyers, Ashville, OH, and Mrs. Mont Nelson, Columbus, OH, 4 brothers, Fred, Ben and Bill Burchett, all of Louisa, route 3, and Dave Burchett of Ashville, OH. Big Sandy News, Nov 2, 1945

 

CHURCH, Green

Green Church, 48, of Rush, KY, died suddenly Sunday afternoon suffering a heart attach at the home of Rev. Roma Knipp in Wheelersburg, OH. Mr. Church was a native of Lawrence County, KY, a son of James and Rebecca Bryant Church who now reside in Houckville, KY. He had been a resident of Boyd County for the past 25 years. Surviving are his parents, his wife, Mrs. Mary L. Presser Church, 3 sons, James Wiley Church of the U. S. Army stationed in the Pacific, Isaac Junior Church and Herbert Green Church, both at home, a daughter, Mrs. Martha Dowdy of Rush, 2 brothers, Harry of Rush and Lawrence of Houckville, KY, and 3 sisters, Mrs. Mary Weaver of Ashland, Mrs. Nora Kiser of Catlettsburg, and Mrs. Cynthia Smith of Rush, 2 grandchildren. The body was removed from the Kilgore Funeral Home to the residence in Rush Monday. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday afternoon in the East Fork Chapel with Rev. Roma Knipp of Wheelersburg officiating. Burial was made in the Bluebaum cemetery on Durbin, Boyd County. Big Sandy News, Nov 23, 1945

 

CRANK, Catherine (Dye)

Mrs. Catherine Crank, 94, of Louisa route 4, the Fallsburg section, passed away at the home Nov 23 at 11:15 p.m. following a stroke suffered 8 days before. She was the widow of the late C. C. Crank who died 28 years ago. She was born in Russell County, VA, a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Dye and has lived at Fallsburg for the past 82 years. Funeral services were held Monday at 2 p.m. from the Fallsburg Methodist Church of which she had been a member for the past 52 years. Interment was made in the Woods Cemetery conducted by the Rev. G. R. Bishop. She is survived by 4 daughters, Mrs. Laura Blankenship of Fallsburg, Mrs. Charles Carter of route 4, Louisa, Mrs. John Compton of Dennis and Mrs. Della Collinsworth of Charleston, WV; 2 sons, Jerry Crank of Fallsburg and Chris Crank of route 1, Ashland. Big Sandy News, Nov 30, 1945

 

CREECH, Samantha Ellen (Debord)

Mrs. Samantha Ellen Creech, 68, wife of John S. Creech, died last Friday at 11:45 at the home, 410 Berry Avenue, Westwood, Ashland, following an illness of 3 years. Mrs. Creech, a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church was born in Lawrence county, KY, a daughter of Steve and Augusta Hatfield Debord, both natives of Kentucky. Funeral services were conducted Monday at 2:30 p.m. at the Enterprise Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Cremeans officiating assisted by the Rev. Palmer Young and the Rev. Kelly McGraw. Surviving are the husband, 3 sons, Foster Pennington, Ashland, Roscoe Pennington, route 2, Ashland, and Claude Pennington, Texas, 1 daughter, Mrs. Maude McKnight, South Webster, OH, 1 brother, John Debord, Lawrence County, KY, 1 sister, Mrs. Martha Unrue, Westwood, 13 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Nov 23, 1945

 

EVANS, George W.

George W. Evans, 55 passed away Nov 6, at &:30 p.m. at his home at Webbville, route 1. He was born and reared at Webbville, a son of the late Green and Margaret Crabtree Evans. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the home with the Rev. Fred Vanhorn officiating. Surviving are his widow, Lilly Sprouse Evans, 2 sisters, Mrs. Liddiie Heylton and Mrs. Noah Sprouse, of route 1, Webbville, 3 brothers, Cecil and Monroe Evans of Columbus, OH and John Lewis Evans of route 1, Webbville, Big Sandy news, Nov 9, 1945

 

FUGATE, Banner J.

Banner J. Fugate, 41, died in a Huntington hospital at noon Sunday Nov 4, following an illness of 1 week. He was a son of the late J. E. and Arminta Taylor Fugate of Fallsburg, KY. The body was returned to Fallsburg to the home of his sister, Mrs. Allen Clay. The funeral was held in the Savage Memorial Church Tuesday afternoon and burial was made in the family cemetery. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Ora Mullins Fugate, 1 sister, Mrs. Allen Clay, route 4, Louisa, 1 brother, R. L. Fugate, Logan, WV. Big Sandy News, Nov 9, 1945

 

GRAHAM, Ida

Miss Ida Graham, 75, of Adams, KY, passed away in Louisa, Sunday evening at 6:30. She was a daughter of the late Lark and Elizabeth Carter Graham, lifelong residents of the Rich Creek section. She had been a member of the Methodist Church since girlhood. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. in the Curtright Funeral Home with the Rev. S. B. Ball officiating. Burial was made in the Carter family cemetery near Ellen, KY. She is survived by 3 sisters, Mrs. Ella Adams, Pickerington, OH, Mrs. Bim Smith and Mrs. Nellie Watson, Los Angeles, CA, 2 brothers, Oscar Graham of Ohio and Dr. Charles Graham, Maysville, KY, Mrs. H.I. Layne of Louisa is a niece. Big Sandy News, Nov 23, 1945

 

HAMMOND, William

William Hammond, 71, passed away at his home at Webbville, route 1, Monday, Nov 26 at 10:26 p.m. Mr. Hammond was a lifelong resident of Webbville and a well known and prosperous farmer of that section. He was a son of the late F. M. and Martha Lyons Hammond, and had been a member of the Church of God for 25 years. Funeral services were held Thursday morning at 10 a.m. at the home and burial was made in the family cemetery. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Jane Thompson Hammond, 3 daughters, Mrs. Robert Hillman, Webbville, Mrs. Mose Haney, Carter, KY, Mrs. Claude Ratcliff, Chillicothe, OH, 3 sons, Eskel Hammond, Webbville, Lowell Hammond, London, OH, and Lovell Hammond, Irwin, OH; 1 sister, Mrs. Green Thompson, Hillsboro, OH; 2 brothers, Oscar Hammond, Ashland, Boston Hammond, route 1, Webbville, Big Sandy News, Nov 30, 1945

 

LAUDERMAN, Cecil E.

Cecil E. Lauderman, 23, of Martinsville, IN, truck driver on the construction job on highway 23, was killed instantly at 3:30 Friday afternoon when his truck overturned with a load of gravel. He is a son of William and Mary Buntin Lauderman of Martinsville. The body was returned Saturday from the Curtright Funeral Home here to the home of his parents. He is survived by his parents and his widow, Mrs. Imogene Pink Lauderman of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Nov 30, 1945

 

LAYNE, George W.

George W. Layne, 62, passed away in a Lexington hospital, Saturday morning at 10 a.m. A son of the late William and Mary Booten Layne, he was a resident of Louisa before moving to Lexington 23 years ago. Funeral services were held Monday at 2:30 in the home of his sister, Miss Bertha Layne. Burial was made in the Layne family cemetery. He is survived by 2 sisters, Miss Bertha Layne and Mrs. Sophia Muncy of Louisa and 1 brother, H. L. Layne of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Nov 2, 1945

 

McCOMIS, Jacob

1866-1945

Jacob McComis, born Dec 15, 1866 in Lawrence County, KY and for 35 years a resident of the vicinity, died Oct 20, 1945 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elva Calto in Columbus, OH. He is survived also by the following daughters, Mrs. Ginerva Anthony, Mrs. Flora Fun, Mrs. Jannie Ryan of Columbus and Miss Katherine McComis of Marion, OH, 2 brothers, 3 sisters, 10 grandchildren. One daughter, Mrs. Stella Merritt, preceded him in death. Mr. McComis was a charter member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles of London, OH where he lived for a number of years. Funeral services were held Oct 22, 1945 at Pletcher Funeral Home and interment was made in Union Cemetery. Big Sandy News, Nov 2, 1945

 

MOORE, Columbus

Funeral services for Columbus Moore, 73, retired Armco policeman, who died Saturday in a Lexington hospital after a brief illness were held Monday at 2 p.m. at the South Ashland Methodist Church with the Rev. L. H. Tipton, pastor of the Unity Baptist Church, officiating. Burial was made in the Rose Hill Burial Park. The body arrived at the John Steen Funeral Home at Ashland Sunday and was taken to the home of a daughter, Mrs. Ralph Childers, 2506 29th Street, where he resided. Mr. Moore was born at Mattie, KY and had lived in Ashland for 25 years. He was a member of the South Ashland Methodist Church. Surviving are 3 sons, Dr. E. L. Moore, Lexington, KY, Norman Moore, Cleveland, OH, and Lieutenant James Moore, U. S. Army, Germany, 2 daughters, Mrs. William Fampie, Detroit, MI and Mrs. Childers, 1 brother, Joe Moore, Mattie, KY and 1 sister, Mrs. Emma Comer, Louisa, KY. Big Sandy News, Nov 30, 1945

 

MOORE, William Henry

William Henry Moore, 72, colored, passed away Oct 27 in the home of his sister, Mrs. Virginia Griffith in Williamson, WV, following an illness of 11 months. Mr. Moore, familiarly known as "Will" was a lifelong resident of Fort Gay. A brief funeral service was conducted at the grave by Rev. J. C. Hager, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Louisa. Surviving are 3 sisters, Mrs. Virginia Griffith of Williamson, WV, Mrs. John Wallace of Louisa and Mrs. Alberta Scott of Watoga, WV, 2 brothers, Fred Moore of Williamson, WV and John Moore of Fort Gay, WV. Big Sandy News, Nov 16, 1945

 

NELSON, Ulysses Eugene

Ulysses Eugene Nelson, 15 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Nelson, of Louisa, the High Bottom section. passed away at the home Nov 17 at 8:20 p.m. following a week's illness of heart trouble. The Nelson had lived in High Bottom for the past 5 years, moving there from Georges Creek. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 in the Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Interment was made in Pine Hill Cemetery. Surviving are the parents, 2 sisters, Mrs. Bob Kise of Louisa, route 1, Mrs. Ed Bradley of Louisa, 4 brothers, Delbert Nelson of Ashland, Clyde Nelson of Huntington, John and Marvin Nelson, both of Louisa, a grandmother, Mrs. L. T. Griffith of Charley. Big Sandy News, Nov 23, 1945

 

NORTHUP, Hermia Louise

On Saturday afternoon, Nov 24 Mrs. Hermia Louise Northup, one of Louisa's outstanding and beloved citizens, passed away in a Lexington hospital where she had been a patient for a short time. Mrs. Northup was born and reared in Louisa, a daughter of the late Col. Jay H. Northup and Emma Wood Northup; a member of the Episcopal Church and a Daughter of the American Revolution. She leaves 2 sisters, Mrs. Charles Russell of Ashland and Mrs. J. McLeod Turner of Louisa and 6 nieces, Mrs. John L. Smith and Mrs. Edward Seaton of Ashland, Mrs. Lansing Brisbin of Huntington, WV, Mrs. Charles Gould and Mrs. Robert Willett of Buffalo, NY and Mrs. Thomas Fieger of Schenectady, NY and 2 nephews, Charles Russell of Ashland and John M. Turner of Louisa. Services were held for her in her home Monday afternoon and concluded on Pine Hill Cemetery, conducted by Archdeacon Francis Cooper of  Ashland and Rev. J. C. Hager of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Nov 30, 1945

 

O'BRYAN, Anderson

Anderson O'Bryan, 85, former resident of this county, died suddenly of a heart attack last Friday at the home of a sister, Mrs. Vina Sparks in Columbus, OH. Funeral services were held in the Christian Union Church, Columbus and burial followed in Lafayette Cemetery near London, OH. The octogenarian was born in Lawrence County, a son of the late Owen and Lucy O'Bryan. He is survived by the following children: Garfield and Alva of Columbus, Mrs. Florence Kirkpatrick of Delbarton, WV, Mrs. Lyles; 16 grandchildren, 3 of whom are in the service overseas; 24 great grandchildren, 2 sisters, including Mrs. Saprks and Mrs. Melissa Pack of Columbus, and a brother, Lewis of Columbus, who is seriously ill at the present time. His wife, 4 sons, and 3 daughters, preceded him in death. Big Sandy News, Nov 2, 1945

 

OSBORN, Louise (Riley)

Mrs. Louise Osborn, 74 years of age, died at the home of a son Charles Osborn in Louisa, Thursday, Nov 1.  She was the  widow of Andy Osborn who passed away in 1941. She was a  former resident of Johnson County and was born in Magoffin County near Buffalo KY; a daughter to the late John and Nancy Ellen Hammonds Riley. She was a member of the Methodist Church for the past 26 years. Funeral services were held on Sunday morning at 11 o'clock at the Nippa Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Millard VanHoose officiating. Burial was made in the Rush Fork Cemetery. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Charles Rice, Wittensville KY, and Mrs. Ferrel Stambaugh, Stambaugh KY. Three sons Charles Osborn, Louisa; Flem Osborn Dehite W.VA Two sisters, Mrs. Solia Selty and Mrs. Della Reffett both of Ashland, two brothers James Riley, Salyersville KY, and Clay Riley, Extel TX, 25 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Nov 9, 1945

 

SAVAGE, Diana Kay

Diana Kay Savage, 2 months old daughter of Arthur and Mary Frances Yates Savage, Jr., of Louisa, route 3, the Five Forks section, died in a local hospital Tuesday afternoon following an illness of 3 days. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. at the home of her grandmother, Mrs. L. M. Yates of Louisa, route 4 and burial will be made in the Bernard Cemetery. Surviving are the parents, 3 brothers, and grandparents, Mrs. L. M. Yates and Mr. Arthur Savage of Louisa route 4. Big Sandy News, Nov 23, 1945

 

SPARKS, Della (Salyers)

Mrs. Della Salyers Sparks, 56, died at her home Saturday afternoon at 4:30. She had been ill for the past 6 months. A daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Salyers, she had been a lifelong resident of Louisa. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. in the Curtright Funeral Home with the Rev. William W. Moore, pastor of the Freewill Baptist Church officiating. Burial was made in the Salyers family cemetery near Flat Gap, KY. She is survived by 3 daughters, Mrs. Lexie Stevens, Louisa, Mrs. Pearl Mann, Columbus, OH, and Mrs. J. A. Fortner, Huntington, WV, 3 sons, Walter and William E. Sparks, Louisa, and Pfc. Homer Sparks, China; 2 sisters, Mrs. Rosa Estep, Paintsville, KY, and Mrs. Ed Johnson, Yatesville, KY and 1 brother, Patton Salyers, Johnson County. Big Sandy News, Nov 2, 1945

 

STEWART, Margaret Elizabeth (McGranham)

Mrs. Margaret Elizabeth McGranaham  Stewart, 74, passed away at 4 a.m. Wednesday morning, Oct 31, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Frank Gose, Louisa, route 1. She had been a resident of the county nearly all of her life and was the widow of the late James Stewart who died Jul 23, 1939. She was a daughter of the late U. G. and Nancy Miller McGranaham. Funeral services were held Saturday Nov 3, in Spencer Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. William W. Moore officiating. Interment was made in Judd Cemetery on Little Blaine. Mrs. Stewart had been a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. She is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Frank Gose of Louisa route 1, and Mrs. W. H. Stepp of Kermit, WV, 3 sons, Fred Stewart of Columbus, OH, Bob Stewart of Williamson, WV and John Stewart of Louisa, route 1, 1 brother, Ned McGranaham of Warfield, KY. Big Sandy News, Nov 9,1945

 

VANHORN, Donald

Donald Ray VanHorn, 11 year old son of Lute and Ann Humphrey VanHorn of Fallsburg, passed away in a Huntington hospital, Tuesday morning at 7. He had been ill for the past 6 weeks. Funeral services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. in the Savage Memorial Church in Fallsburg with Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating. Surviving are the parents, 1 sister, 3 brothers, and a grandfather, Dee VanHorn of Buchanan, KY. Big Sandy News, Nov 9, 1945

 

 

DECEMBER 1945

 

 

BELLOMY, Mary Belle (Frazier)

Mrs. Mary Belle Bellomy, 76, wife of J. W. Bellomy of route 1, Fort Gay, WV, passed away at the home Sunday morning at 7:30. She was a daughter of the late Cornelius and Sarah Wellman Frazier. Mrs. Bellomy had been a lifelong resident of Fort Gay and a member of the Fort Gay Baptist Church since girl hood. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. from the home with the Rev. D. a. Hewlett of Fallsburg officiating. Burial was made in the Billups Gap Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, 2 daughters, Mrs. Harry Baker and Mrs. Claude Ramsey of Huntington, WV; 3 sons, Neal Bellomy of Rittman, OH, Alonzo Bellomy of South Point, OH, and Zat Bellomy of Huntington, WV, 2 brothers, Boyd Frazier and Harry Frazier of Fort Gay. Big Sandy News, Dec 28,1 945

 

BROWN, Julia May (Justice)

1890-1945

Mrs. Julia May Brown, 55 years old matron of Puritan Mines, died last week in the Matewan hospital following an illness of 2 years. She was the wife of George S. Brown, employed with the Puritan Coal Corporation. Mrs. Brown was born Apr 3, 1890 at Louisa, KY, and was a daughter of Sam Berry Justice and Catherine Justice. Survivors include the husband, the son, George S. Brown, Jr., serving in the U. S. Navy; 3 daughters, Mrs. Ruth Maynard of Puritan Mines, Mrs. Wade Bowens, of Lobato, and Clara May, at home; 2 sisters, Mrs. Mary Flagg, Paintsville, KY and Mrs. Dove Wright of Whitman, WV, and 1 brother, Joe Justice of Louisa. Big Sandy News, Dec 28,1 945

 

BURNETTE, Virgil

Virgil Burnette, Sr., 62, employee on the N & W section force, passed away at his home in Fort Gay Wednesday Nov 28 at 9:30 p.m. A son of the late Sam and Sarah Young Burnette, he had been a lifelong resident of Fort Gay and had been a member of Methodist Church for a number of years. His wife, Mrs. Louetta Frasher Burnette passed away in 1942. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the M. E. Church South in Fort Gay and burial was made in the Frasher Cemetery. Surviving are 1 daughter, Mrs. Robert Walker, Gallup, KY, 2 sons, Frank Burnette, Barberton, OH and Virgil Burnette, Jr., Portsmouth, VA, 3 sisters, Mrs. James Cockran, Fort Gay, WV, Mrs. Dave Copley, Ethel, WV and Mrs. Sam Austin, Rush, KY; 2 brothers, John Burnette, Chattaroy, WV and George Burnette, Ethel, WV. Big Sandy News, Dec 7, 1945

 

CONLEY, Catherine May

Catherine May Conley 6 years old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Conley, Rush, KY, was burned to death Sunday morning at the home. The mother said she found the child lying on the floor, her clothing and body burned when she returned from milking. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the 21st Street Tabernacle, Ashland, with the Rev. E. A. Curry, pastor, officiating. Burial was made in the Conley Cemetery at Hopewell, KY. the child who was a first grade student at the Norton Branch School was born in Ashland, Her father is with the U. S. Navy in the South Pacific. Surviving are the parents, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Felix Conley, Rush and Mr. and Mrs. Alonzo Thompson, Eubank, KY. Big Sandy News, Dec 21, 1945

 

CORDLE, Nancy (Potter)

Nancy Cordle, 89, widow of the late Rafe Cordle of Cordell, passed away at the home Dec 7 at 1 a.m. She was a daughter of the late Johnnie and Nannie Potter of Cordell and had been a lifelong member of the Freewill Baptist Church. Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the home with the Rev. W. T. Fraley officiating. Burial was made in the Cordle Cemetery. Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. Simon Arrington and 1 son, Jennings Cordle, both of Cordell. Big Sandy News, Dec 14, 1945

 

CRUM, Thelma Jean

Thelma Jean Crum, 19 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ance Crum of Huntington, WV, passed away at the home of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Luther Meade, route 1, Fort Gay, Monday evening at 6:30 following an illness of the past year. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. from the home of the grandparents and interment was made in the Wellman Cemetery near Fort Gay. She is survived by her parents, grandparents, 2 sisters, Cora Belle and Dorothy Mae, both at home; 4 brothers, James Edward of Huntington, Ance Sherwood, Ike and Luther John, at home. Big Sandy News, Dec 14, 1945

 

CUNNINGHAM, Edith (McDavid)

Pneumonia proved fatal this week to a Webbville mother and her 4 months old baby, while 3 other children of the family are reported ill in the King's Daughters' hospital, Ashland, with the same malady. Mrs. Edith McDavid Cunningham, age 29, died Sunday evening and her small child passed away Monday night. The 3 other children were removed to the Ashland hospital, seriously ill with the disease. Efforts are being made by relatives of the family to have the husband of the deceased woman returned home from Okinawa where he is serving with the Untied States Army. Mrs. Cunningham was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McDavid of Webbville. She is survived by the parents, her husband, and 3 children, and 3 brothers, Russell, Junior and Roy McDavid, who are in the Army. The bodies of the mother and child were removed to the Cox Funeral Home. Services will be conducted Saturday. Big Sandy News, Dec 21, 1945

 

CUNNINGHAM, Edward E.

Funeral services for Edward E. Cunningham, 68, 319 Tenth Ave., Huntington, president of the Rockcastle Gas Co., at Louisa, KY, who died Tuesday at the breakfast table of a heart attack were held Thursday at 2 p.m. at the Central Christian Church, with the Rev. Joseph A. Garshaw, pastor, officiating. Burial was in Woodmere Cemetery. Mr. Cunningham was born near Shinnston, WV, and attended schools there and at the former Fairmont Normal. After teaching in Harrison County schools he became engaged in the lumber business and later he went to Youngstown, OH, where he entered the real estate and coal business. In 1914 he married Miss Mera McDowell of Hartford, OH, who preceded him in death 8 years ago. He entered the gas and oil fields in eastern Kentucky in 1926 and opened an office in Louisa which he maintained until his death. For 14 years, he had been making daily trips between Huntington and Louisa and the gas fields in that area. He was a member of the Central Christian Church and for 8 years had been chairman of the church board. Mr. Cunningham also belonged to the Rotary Club and was a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the City Executive Club. Active pallbearers were elders of the Christian Church and honorary pallbearers included deacons, members of the Vinson Bible Class and Jack Richmond, David Fox, V. G. Bryan, Dr. Rolla S. Kenaston, G. V. Ray and Cheley Lykins. He is survived by 1 daughter, Mary Ellen, at home and 1 son, Morris in the U. S. Navy, a grandson, Michael Cunningham, Huntington, 1 sister, Miss Cunningham of Wyatt, WV and 1 brother, Chester Cunningham also of Wyatt. Big Sandy News, Dec 14, 1945

 

DALE, Andrew J.

Funeral services were held Sunday at the home of Mrs. Mike Laney at Richardson for her grandfather, Andrew J. Dale, who was drowned Dec 7 in Gnats, Creek, about 5 miles above Richardson. Burial was made in the Meade Cemetery. Mr. Dale, just 23 days before his 93rd birthday, had gone to a grocery store near the home and is though to have fallen into the swollen waters of the creek while trying to cross on a water gap. In falling his body had struck across a willow limb leaving his head submerges. The body was not found until the following day. He is survived by 1 son, 1 daughter and a granddaughter, Mrs. Laney. Big Sandy News. Dec 14, 1945

 

DAWSON, Everett

Grim silence is being maintained by Donald Buchanan, 29, held in jail for the slaying of Everett Dawson, 37, in an isolated mountainside cemetery between Wharncliffe and War Eagle last Friday morning. A cell mate of Donald Buchanan, quotes him as revealing that the fatal shooting took place after a quarrel over a dog. "It was either his life or mine," Buchanan's cell mate quoted him as saying. Except for this alleged statement Buchanan has refused to talk about the tragedy. Fellow prisioner alleged to have been Buchanan's confidante was John Akers arrested by military police for being AWOL. Investigators say they have been unable to discover any motive for the slaying described by them as one of the most wanton in the history of Mingo County. They claimed to have learned that Buchanan had been on a prolonged spree and that he consumed a pint of whiskey in the home of his grandmother, Mrs. Chloe Buchanan, just before he seized his .22 calibre rifle and started in the direction of Dawson, who had reached the cemetery while rabbit hunting with his father in law, John Ferrell.

 

Making Buchanan's crime all the more inexplicable is the belief of investigators that he fired the fatal shot when still 30 to 40 feet distant from his victim. Buchanan then went to the cemetery and took Dawson's repeating shotgun after hiding his rife. He refused to permit Ferrell and other to come to Dawson's aid, standing them off at gun point for more than 3 hours. Officers say they learned that Buchanan fired at his father when the latter approached the cemetery. After telling his grandmother he had killed a man Buchanan, after declaring his intention to kill his wife and children, went to his home on the Virginia side of the river. At gun point, he forced an unidentified man to ferry him across and back in a boat. Deputy Sheriff Joe Wayne Hatfield, armed with a rifle, fired five shots at Buchanan after encountering him on the railroad tracks. Buchanan commanded to surrender Buchanan undertook to fire on the officer with his victim's shotgun. Magistrate Homer Bragg, with Deputy Hatfield, is said to have fired at Buchanan with a pistol.

 

After spending the night in the woods Buchanan crept into the home of his father and was taken into custody by a posse of officers, Deputy Sheriff James L. Dent, State Police Corporal Walter Hampton, Constable, Alonzo Preece, Probation Officer Ray Gibson and Taylor Hatfield, Pike County deputy sheriff. Bullet from Buchanan's rifle struck Dawson in the left temple and he died in a Welch hospital at 10 p.m. Friday night. Dawson was discharged from the Navy last October with the rank of fireman, first class. Prior to entering the Navy he was employed by Glenalum. He was  highly regarded in his home section. Dawson's body was brought Tuesday to the home of his brother, Fletcher Dawson near Fort Gay and funeral services were held Wednesday morning at 10:30 in the Methodist Church in Fort Gay. Burial was made in the Billups Gap cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Henry and Lillie Frasher Dawson of Fort Gay; his widow, Mrs. Nina Ferrell Dawson, 1 son, Gene Raymond, 4 daughters, Mildred Irene, Donna Faye, Johnita Christine and Nancy Delores, all at home; 6 sisters, Mrs. Lee Toler, Wharncliffe, Mrs. Levi Sanders, Huntington, WV, Mrs. Jesse Parsley, Kenova, WV, Mrs. Ralph Brown and Mrs. G. W. Gill, both of Columbus; 2 brothers, Fletcher Dawson of Fort Gay and Gordon Dawson of Cleveland, OH. Investigator say they learned from Mrs. Chloe Buchanan that Dawson fell mortally wounded on the grave of the slayer's mother, who died many years ago. Buchanan, it was stated, has been charged with a number of crime in Mingo, Pike and Buchanan counties. He was recently released from the Pike County jail after being arrested on an arson charge. Big Sandy News, Dec 14, 1945

 

DUNCAN, Lucy

Mrs. Lucy Duncan, 79 years old, widow of the late Captain John M. Duncan, died very suddenly at the home of Mrs. Malta Williams of West Van Lear, on Friday morning at 2 a.m. Mrs. Duncan, who resided at Richardson, KY was on one of her annual visits to the Williams home, it being her former home during the lifetime of her husband. Surviving are 1 son, Scott P. Duncan, Osborne, OH, and 1 daughter, Mrs. Alma Coulson, West Van Lear. She is also survived by 1 sister, Mrs. Mary Hibbard of Richardson and several grandchildren. Funeral services were held at the home of Mrs. Malta Williams on Sunday afternoon and burial was made in the family cemetery nearby, under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home. Big Sandy News, Dec 7,1 945

 

FRALEY, Della (Perry)

1876-1945

Mrs. Della Fraley, 60, died at 4:30 last Wednesday at her home in Ashland after an illness of the last 2 months. Mrs. Fraley was born May 18, 1876 at Skaggs, KY, a daughter of the late Samuel B. and Lady Brown Perry. A resident of Ashland for 20 years, she was a member of the Christian Church. Funeral services were conducted Friday with the Rev. J. S. Faulsoner, assisted by Rev. E. A. Curry, officiating. Following services at the funeral home, the body was taken to Willard, KY where another brief service was conducted at 1 p.m. in the Christian Church there with the Rev. E. A. Curry officiating. Burial was made in the family cemetery there. Surviving are the husband, Dr. H. B.  Fraley, 1 son, W. T. Fraley, Willard, 3 daughters, Mrs. George Dobbins and Mrs. Goldie Fleming, Ashland and Miss Grace Fraley at home, 3 brothers, William Perry, Kansas City, MO, John Perry, Detroit, MI and Samuel Perry, Tulsa, OK and 3 sisters, Mrs. Martin Coffee, Ashland, Mrs. John Skaggs, Portsmouth, OH and Mrs. Amanda Logan of Tulsa. Big Sandy News, Dec 7, 1945

 

GRIFFITH, J. T.

T. Griffith, 73 years of age, died at his home at Cherokee, KY, Dec 21 at 3 p.m. following an illness of 4 weeks. He was a son of the late Harrison and Elizabeth Sparks Griffith. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home with the Rev. Arthur Morris officiating. Interment was made in the Griffith Cemetery. Mr. Griffith's first wife, Mrs. Mary Belle Smith, Griffith, died many years ago. He was married 18 years ago to Mrs. Lina Spillman Griffith who survived. Others surviving are 2 daughters, Mrs. H. L. Vick and Mrs. A. S. Fraley of Worthington, KY, 2 sons, Ray H. Griffith and Charles Griffith of Cherokee, a sister, Mrs. Sine Rickey of Long Beach, CA and 4 grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Dec 28, 1945

 

HAWS, Ben

Funeral services will be held Sunday at Deering, OH, near Ironton, for Ben Haws, former Lawrence Countian, who passed away Tuesday evening in Dayton, OH. Mr. Haws was a brother of Henry Haws of Louisa, Dr. H. Haws of Warfield, KY and Mrs. Mattie Yost of Dayton, OH. Big Sandy News, Dec 28, 1945

 

HAYES, Genoa (Berry)

Mrs. Genoa Hayes, 77, widow of the late John Hayes passed away at the home of a son, Allen Hayes of Adams, Saturday afternoon at 5:30. She was born at Adams, a daughter of the late George Allen and Nancy Ball Berry. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Evergreen Church with the Rev. S. B. Ball and REv. William W. Moore, officiating. Interment was made in the Berry cemetery. She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Millard Wellman of Rt. L Louisa, Mrs. Dewey Hayes and Mrs. Canada Blackburn, both of Columbus, OH; two sons, Allen Hayes of Adams and Lindsey Hayes of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Dec 21,1 945

 

HUGHES, Fay

Fay Hughes, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Home Hughes of Cadmus, passed away at the home Dec 1 at 5 a.m. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home with the Rev. Fred VanHorn officiating. Burial was made in the Hughes Cemetery on Morgan Creek. She is survived by her mother and father, 4 brothers and 3 sisters. Big Sandy News. Dec 7, 1945

 

MARCUM, C. W. "Happy"

Funeral services for C. W. "Happy" Marcum who died Saturday in a Huntington hospital following a prolonged illness were held Monday at 2 p.m. at the Reger Funeral Home with the Rev. O. P. Smith, pastor of the Methodist Church in Catlettsburg, officiating. Interment followed in Woodmere Cemetery. A brother of the late James O. Marcum, he is survived by his wife, a son, Fred Marcum of Huntington, a daughter, Mrs. W. K. Simms of Huntington, 4 sisters, Mrs. W. D. O'Neal, Mrs. C. C. Hill and Mrs. L. G. Bryner of Huntington, Miss Edith Marcum of Catlettsburg and 1 brother, H. B. Marcum of Chicago. Big Sandy News, Dec 21, 1945

 

MCKENZIE, John

John McKenzie, 57, died Thursday Nov 29 at 5:15 p.m. in a Huntington Hospital. A former resident of Torchlight, KY, he had resided in Louisa for the past two years. He was a mine foreman for the Stone Branch Coal Company, Logan, WV for a number of years. At the time of his death hew as a maintenance right of way foreman for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway Company. He was a son of Hiram and Sarah Neeley McKenzie. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday at 2:30 p.m. from the home with the Rev. W. M. Moore officiating. The Masonic Lodge will conduct the graveside ritual. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Rebecca Rittenbury McKenzie, six daughters, Mrs. Heber Riffe, Cadmus, KY, Mrs. Arnold Holt, Ashland, Mrs. Lawrence Young, Charleston, WV, Misses Ethel and Aileen McKenzie, Akron, OH, and Miss Betty Jane McKenzie at home; four sons, Charles and Howard McKenzie, at home, Norman McKenzie, Columbus, OH and Earl McKenzie, U. S. Navy; two sisters, Mrs. Telia Hammond, Fort Gay, Mrs. George Frey, Asheville, OH and two brothers, Floyd McKenzie, Torchlight and Huley McKenzie, Route 2, Louisa. Big Sandy News, Dec 7, 1945

 

MOORE, Victoria (Tomblin)

Mrs. Victoria Tomblin Moore, wife of J. F. Moore of near Fallsburg, passed away in a Louisa hospital Dec 24 at 10:30 p.m. Mrs. Moore had been a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. Funeral services were held Thursday morning at the home with the Rev. Dave Hewlett officiating. Interment was made in the Moore Cemetery at the Mouth of Long Branch. Surviving are the husband, 3 sons, Isaac Moore of Catlettsburg, Lon Moore of Louisa and Tom Moore of Fallsburg; 1 sister, Mrs. John McDoren of Bowling Green, OH. Big Sandy news, Dec 28,1 945

 

RATCLIFFE, Garrett

Garrett Ratcliffe, 39, was killed in an automobile accident near his home at Ashland, OH Dec 19. He had been employed as a brakeman on the N & W railway for a number of years and was a member of the Brotherhood of Trainmen. The body was returned to Louisa, Dec 20 and was taken on Thursday from the Curtright Funeral Home here to the home of his father at Clifford. Final rites were held Friday at 1 p.m. at the United Baptist Church on Yellow Creek with the Rev. Nelson Hughes officiating. Interment was made in the Ratcliffe Cemetery near Clifford. He is survived by his parents, William and Elta Frazier Ratcliffe; 2 daughters, Bobby Lee and Billy Jean of Columbus, OH, 3 sisters, Mrs. W. a. Hall and Mrs. Gray Maynard of Louisa and Miss Hazel Ratcliffe at home, 2 brothers, Dan Ratcliffe of Glenhayes, WV and James Ratcliffe of Clifford. Big Sandy news, Dec 28, 1945

 

ROBERTS, John

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. for John Roberts, 79, who passed away Dec 1 at his home at Fort Gay, route 1, the Mill Creek section, and burial made in the Thompson Cemetery with Rev. James Harvey conducting the services. He was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Sam Roberts and had been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church for the past 40 years. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Virginia Thompson Roberts, 2 daughters, Miss Della Roberts, at home, and Mrs. W. L. Harless of route 1, Fort Gay; 2 brothers, D.M. Roberts and Tildman Roberts of Oklahoma City, OK. Big Sandy News, Dec 7, 1945

 

SKEENS, Emma (VanHoose)

Mrs. Emma VanHoose Skeens, 64, wife of Add Skeens of Louisa route 4, died in an Ashland hospital Tuesday evening following an illness of 1 week. She was born at Charley, KY a daughter of the late Buddy and Parmelia Jordan VanHoose. Mrs. Skeens was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held today at 2 p.m. in the Buchanan Chapel at Zelda with the Rev. D. A. Hewlett officiating. Burial will follow in the Buchanan Chapel Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, 4 daughters, Mrs. Apps VanHorn, of Fallsburg, Mrs. Herbert VanHorn of Zelda, Mrs. Willie J. Chadwick of Nashville, TN, and Mrs. Marion McGuire of Ashland, 2 sons, Jack Skeens of Hookstown, PA and Scott B. Skeens, CMI, U. S. Navy, Boston, Mass; 1 half sister, Mrs. Lyss Hickman of Columbus, OH, 1 brother, Johnny VanHoose of Urbana, OH, 3 half brothers, Roy VanHoose of Mechanicsburg, OH, Millard VanHoose of route 1, Louisa and Hansel VanHoose of Ashland. Big Sandy News, Dec 28,1945

 

SPENCE, V. W.

1893-1945

W. Spence, 52, of Ashland, Chesapeake and Ohio Railway conductor died at 7:15 a.m. Sunday in the King's Daughters' hospital as a result of injuries sustained Saturday night when he fell from a train at Hitchins, KY. Dr. J. C. Hall, Boyd County coroner, said death was due to a skull fracture. Ashland police officers said Mr. Spence fell from the top of a boxcar when the train on which he was working was switching cars at Hitchins. He was brought to Ashland on passenger train No. 24 at 1 a.m.  Sunday and rushed to the hospital. Mr. Spence, a member of the Order of Railway Conductors was born Sep 25, 1893, in Lawrence county, KY, a son of the late David and Martha Vaughan Spence. He had resided in Ashland for 25 years and had been an employee of the C & O for 28 years. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. G. A. Gough, pastor, officiating. Burial was in Rose Hill Burial Park. Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Carrie Spence, 4 sons, David D., Clarence Roland, George Thomas and Donald Raymond Spence all at home, 2 daughters, Mrs. Charles E. Jones, Ashland and Miss Mary Katherine Spence at home; and 1 brother, Vernon R. Spence, Ashland. Big Sandy News, Dec 21, 1945

 

THOMPSON, Madelyn (Estep)

1921-1945

Mrs. Madelyn Estep Thompson, wife of Ray Thomson, Lancaster, OH, route 6, died at her home Monday morning Nov 26. Mrs. Thompson was born at Louisa, Jul 23, 1921. She is the daughter of B. O. Estep of Millersport, OH formerly of Louisa. Besides her husband and father, Mrs. Thompson is survived by 2 daughters, Mary Lou age 4 and Joyce Ann age 7 months; 2 brothers, Ronald and Willis at home, a stepmother, Lora Bryant Estep, her maternal grandmother, Julia Pack, Mechanicsburg, OH, and paternal grandfather, Albert Estep, West Rushville, OH. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at Mills Memorial U. S. Church, Lancaster, OH with Rev. T. R. McGinnis officiating. Interment was made in Fairfield memorial cemetery by C. M. Tomen, funeral director, Pleasantville, OH. Big Sandy News, Dec 7, 1945

 

WELLMAN, Walter

Walter Wellman, 18, Fort Gay, route 1, the Mill Creek section, passed away in a Huntington hospital Wednesday morning at 8:20 following an illness of 6 days. He was a son of Theron and Rhoda Dillon Wellman. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Lynchburg Church at Salt Petre. Burial followed in the Wellman Cemetery. He is survived by his parents, his widow, Mrs. Maude Holt Wellman, 1 son, Glen Edward, 7 sisters, Mrs. Bill Sparks of route 1, Fort Gay, Mrs. James Porter of Hamlin, OH, Mrs. Emmitt Castle of Mansfield, OH, Misses Fern, Betty Jean, Hattie and Pauline Wellman, all at home; 2 brothers, Bill Wellman and Alvas Wellman at home. Big Sandy News, Dec 28, 1945

 

WINCHELL, Virgil Bascom

Virgil Bascom Winchell, 24 year old veteran of WWII, was found asphyxiated in his car on Five Forks hill about 5 miles North of Louisa on the Mayo Trail Tuesday morning, Winchell, in company with a group of young friends, was returning home from an evening spent at Nig's Place, a roadside restaurant near Hester's Gap, when the tragedy occurred. the car had backed into the hillside plunging the exhaust pipe into the clay bank. Efforts to pull the car free from the bank failed and the other young people, leaving Winchell with the car came on to town for held. He had evidently gone to sleep waiting their return and had left the engine running. Investigation by a coroner's jury returned a verdict of death by asphyxiation. Evidences pointed to this conclusion were the still running motor, the fumes of the exhaust coming into the car through a hole in the floor board and the almost empty gas tank. Winchell was born at Denham, KY, a son of Arthur and Bertha Gibson Winchell of Fort Gay. He entered service with the U. S. Army in June 1944 and received an honorable discharge on Oct 16 of this year. Funeral services will be held in the Spruce Lick Church near Fort Gay, but the time of the services has not yet been set. He will be given a military funeral. Surviving are the parents, 5 sisters, Alpha Mae, Lucille, Mary Elizabeth, Virgie Faye and Shirley, at home, 4 brothers, Pfc. Clyde Wallace Winchell with the U. S. Marines in China, Vernon, Ray and Chester, at home; a grandmother, Mrs. Roxie Winchell of Denham, KY. Big Sandy News, Dec 14, 1945

 

YOUNG, Ulysses Grant

Funeral services for Ulysses Grant Young of Ashland, a retired grocer, who died Wednesday morning in King's Daughters hospital after an illness of two weeks was held at 2:30 p.m. Friday in the Unity Baptist church with the Rev. L. H. Tipton, pastor, assisted by Rev. Homer Barber, officiating. Interment was in Ashland Cemetery. Surviving are two sons, John S. Young of Portsmouth, VA, Charles L. Young of Huntington, WV, four daughters, Mrs. Ollie Spears and Mrs. Gertrude Hamer, Los Angeles, CA, Mrs. Gladys Murray, Ashland, and Mrs. Thelma Quales, Richland, WA, two brothers, Garfield Young, Blaine, KY and Frank Young, Lowmansville, KY; three sisters, Mrs. James Chaffins, Ashland, Mrs. William Daniels, Harold, KY, and Mrs. Julia Crave, Catlettsburg, 18 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Big Sandy News, Dec 28, 1945