Arkansas Obits

Richard Fletcher

2011-12-27T22:24:00.001-06:00

ANOTHER OLD CITIZEN GONE

Another old and respected citizen of our city and state has been called to his reward. Richard Fletcher died at his residence in this city, at one o'clock on Wednesday morning of general debility. He was born on 20th November, 1795 in Hawkins county, Tennessee. He was the third son of John G. Fletcher. He was born and raised at a time and place when educational facilities were very limited, but through his own exertions he acquired a good English education His mother died when he was quite young. From 1812 to 1818 he resided with his father on the Cumberland and Tennessee rivers, and engaged in keelboating, moving families down the Cumberland, Tennessee, Ohio and Mississippi, and bringing back salt, iron, etc. This was on a day prior to steamboats.
He was married in the year 1818 to Nancy, daughter of Caleb Lindsey(who moved to and settled in Saline county im 1825), and in the same year moved to Missouri (afterwards Arkansas) territory settling in Lawrence (now Randolph) county, about eight miles from Pocahontas, on Fourche Dumas. He lived there until 1825, when he removed to this (Pulaski) County. The town then consisted of about a half dozen houses. When he crossed the Arkansas his worldly possessions consisted of a half dollar in silver--which he paid out for a bushel of cornmeal and a few household goods. He selected a home about five miles below here, and opened up a fine farm, which he owned to the day of his death. It is now one of the finest plantations on the river.
Some time between the years 1830 and 1836 he represented Pulaski county in the lower house of the general assembly, and afterwards in the state senate. For the latter place he beat Lemuel, R. Lincoln, the democratic candidate, by a handsome majority, although the district was largely democratic. As a legislator he was popular, ever being found advocating measures of right. his life was devoted to farming and stock raising by which he amassed a fortune of more than a quarter million dollars up to the commencement of the late war. He was a very large loser by the war. During that struggle "Uncle Dick" as everybody knew him, lost his faithful partner of half a century. Throughout the war he remained at home, and did everything possible to relieve the distressed during that troublesome period. Since then he has rented his farm and lived principally in the city.
A good man and true in all relations of life, he leaves behind him numerous kindred and thousands of friends throughout the state to mourn his loss. Services by the Rev. J.L.T. Holland. The remains will be taken to the family burial ground on the plantation of deceased, below the city.

Arkansas Gazette
01-12-1873

The picture is of what remains of the family burial ground of this pioneer Little Rock family, overgrown with river cane, surrounded by a housing development. In 1955 there were eleven headstones, but neglect and vandalism have reduced the number to maybe two according to a neighbor. How sad is this???According to
source this piece of land was designated a park when the development
was built. If so, who is responsible for it's care should be determined.

Mrs. Eliza Bayner

2011-06-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

In Little Rock, August 26, 1885, Mrs. Eliza Bayner, a beloved member of the First Baptist Church. Only a few weeks have passed since her only daughter, Lida, expired. Now both are among "the spirits of the just made perfect." They were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their deaths they were not divided.
S.C.
Arkansas Evangel
Little Rock, AR
September 17, 1885, page 3

Maynard Protho

2011-06-22T23:19:00.000-05:00

Maynard Protho, son of W.W. and Emily R. Protho, was born in Pulaski county, Ark., October 14, 1872; died October 1, 1896, at the home of his father. Maynard was converted and professed his faith in Christ in the winter of 1895, while traveling in Texas for his health. When he realized that death was near, he expressed himself as hopeful that comes only through Christ. One by one he called each of his family and friends present and bid them goodbye, saying, "Meet me in heaven." He leaves a father, mother, two sisters and five brothers, and many friends to mourn his absence. Oh, how precious it is to have the presence of a loving Savior to hear us across death's rugged stream. L.L. Boone

Mrs. Myra Meek

2011-06-22T23:08:00.000-05:00

Mrs. Myra Meek, wife of Capt. S.T.W. Meek, died in Hamburg, Ark., January 29, 1883. Mrs. Meek was one of the purest, best women I have ever known. She was not a member of any church, but otherwise a consistent, exemplary and intelligent Christian. She leaves a large circle of friends, three sons, a daughter and husband, whose irreparable loss in her eternal gain. May God grant to them all the comforts and consolation of the Gospel is the sincere prayer of a friend.
A.J. Fawcett, Pine Bluff, Ark, Feb. 3

Arkansas Evangel
February 8, 1883

Ida Pearl Threlkell

2011-04-11T21:10:00.000-05:00

Mrs. Ida Pearl Threlkell, consort of Mr. DeWitt Threlkell, and only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. K. Bollinger, died of congestion, at her residence in Russellville, Friday evening at 3 o'clock, July 24, 1885.
Mrs. Threlkell was born in Calhoun county, Ala., Sept. 22, 1859; moved to Okalona, Miss., in 1865, thence to Verona, Miss., soon thereafter. She joined the Baptist church and was baptized by Rev. J.T. Christion in 1877. She graduated in music in 1875, at the age of 15, and in the English course the year following, from Verona College, which institution awarded her a diploma of Mistress of English Literature. She was united in marriage to Mr. Threlkell Dec. 15, 1880, and the family settled in Russellville, Ark., in 1883.
She was taken violently ill Wednesday evening and succumbed to the King of Terrors Friday at 3.
As a child she was obedient, respectful and tenderly affectionate; as a student at school, she was dutiful, industrious, and ambitious; as a wife and mother she was all that a wife and mother could be; Happy hearted, ardent and tender in affection, devoted, industrious, energetic, persevering, and ambitious, she was a helpmeet to her husband in the truest and highest sense of that word. She was the light and life of the family. She delighted in useful employment and monuments of her industry and skill are numerous.
Thus in the midst of life passses away a happy mother, young wife, a useful Chrsitian woman.
Mrs. Threlkell leaves a fond father and mother, a devoted husband, two brothers, a little girl and a large circle of friends, here and in Mississippi, to mourn her loss. But in death she triumphed. She had often expressed herself as having no fear of death.
" Is that a death-bed, where the Christian lies?
Yes, but not his; 'tis Death itself, there dies."...

Arkansas Evangel, August 6, 1885, page 2

S. J. Rhodes

2011-04-11T20:18:00.001-05:00

Mrs. S. J. Hazen, mother of Frances, wife of Rev. C.B. Rhodes, and our adopted mother departed from this world to join her beloved children in eternal peace, April 2, 1896. Her departure is a loss to husband, relatives and friends that can be repaired by none but Christ himself, for she has lived a Christian life of great usefulness.
While living she did teach us how
To live and love and pray just now.
And when the call of Death came by
She calmly taught us how to die.
Thank God she has been with us
And left with her great overplus
Of love, some sparks, which used aright
Will lead us into eternal light.

A. Hayes
M. Singer
Clarksville, Ark.

Arkansas Baptist, April 22, 1896, page 6

Frances Rhodes

2011-04-11T20:09:00.001-05:00

Only child of Bro. C. B. Rhodes and wife, died on Sunday evening, March 29, after a two weeks sickness. She was the only one left of their six children and was the object of love and pride of parents, friends, and neighbors.
Some do grow old but leave no mark.
Such leave the world still in the dark;
This litttle one passed young away,
But what a light was her short stay;
The one who met with that sweet child
Although he might be reviled,
Would feel longing quite immense
For purity and innocence.
A. Hayes
M. Singer
Clarksville, Arkansas

Arkansas Baptist, April 22, 1896, page 6

A.L. Gowin

2011-04-11T19:38:00.001-05:00

It is with sadness that I write the obituary of Sister A.L. Gowin, wife of Eld. C.A. Gowin, who was taken sick January 18 and died the 19th. She was the daughter of Rev. J. H. Hubbard. Was born in Calhoun county, Ala. in 1852; moved to Arkansas with her parents when but a girl; was married to George Biddle in January 1871, who died and left her a widow. She was married to Bro. C.A. Gowin on September 17, 1874. Sister Gowin was the mother of eleven children, ten of whom are living. Six of her children are professors of religion. Her remains were laid to rest in old Salem cemetery in the presence of a host of mourning friends and relatives. As to her life it was exemplary. She was a model Christian. She was buried into the fellowship of Shamrock Baptist church in 1875, and has lived a devoted Christian. In her death we lose one of our most devoted sisters, a family a devoted mother, the husband a loving, self sacrificing wife. Sister Gowin was a friend to the gospel. In the absence of her husband who was away most of the time preaching the gospel to sinners, she was home taking care and laboring for the comfort and support of the family. Her life was one of consecration to her family and disconsolate husband. We all mourn her death, but our loss is her gain. God help us all to bow in humble supplication to his will.
( next line illegible)
Since Christ was thy ransom, thy guardian and thy guide.
He gave thee, he took thee, and death has no sting.
Since Jesus hath died.

The funeral services were conducted by the writer.
D.A. Squires

Arkansas Baptist, February 19, 1896, page 12

Mrs. Sallie King

2011-02-04T13:58:00.002-06:00

Died at her home in Pine Bluff, Ark., January 7th, 1896; aged 40 years. Sister King had been a member of the Baptist church for over 20 years. a member of the Ladies' Aid Society, always faithful and true amid all the vicissitudes of life. In many respects her life was a sad one. Just one year ago she was called upon to give up a loving Mother. But she remained her cheerfulness and trust under all circumstances. faithful in attendance at services, her friends were many and enemies none, her life is truly worthy of imitation. to her three children, two sisters, and other relatives we extend loving sympathy. While we, her sisters in Christ, will miss her cheerful face and pleasant greetings, we can but rejoice that she has entered into her rest and henceforth will be forever free from care in that home where " there is more death, neither sorrow nor crying, not shall shall there be any more pain."
Mrs. Langston, Mrs. Will Beard, Mrs. W.H. Parker, Committee Ladies' Aid Society, Baptist Church, Pine Bluff, Ark.

Arkansas Baptist, March 4, 1896, page 13

Miss Mina Tuggle

2011-02-04T13:36:00.000-06:00

Since it has pleased God to call from us our beloved sister, Miss Mina Tuggle, on August 5, 1896; and, whereas , she was a devoted member of our church and Sunday school.
Resolved, that we meekly bow in submission to the will of him who gave and who hath taken away.
Resolved, that we will cherish her name and revere her memory, and that we deeply sympathize with the bereaved family and trust that she is bathing in the refulgent light of the Son of God and dwelling with the sanctified host that make their way from earth to heaven.
Resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be furnished to the family; that they be spread upon our Sunday school record and be sent to the baptist for publication.
B.B. Owen, Misses Lizzie Carolan, Minnie McCaslin, Ella Guinn, Committee

Arkansas Baptist, September 2, 1896, page 9

Eld. W. S. Dozier

2011-02-04T13:25:00.002-06:00

Death has claimed this brother after almost six months of failing health. He was strong in the faith, and made many sacrifices for the cause. His last service was at Piney Grove and Blackaby Springs where he filled pastor Hubbard's appointments about six weeks before his death. He had calls from two churches, but had not accepted. I have lost a loving husband, The Baptist has lost an earnest advocate and the denomination one who was devoted to its principals. But he is "resting, sweetly resting." Eld.T.C. Swofford conducted the burial sevice. The last text used by my husband was John 14:2. Pray for me in my grief. Callie E. Dozier
Hope, Ark.

Arkansas Baptist
September 2, 1896, page 15

Callie Moseley

2011-02-04T13:21:00.002-06:00

Sister Callie, wife of Pro. Preston C. Moseley was born August 18, 1859; died May 14, 1896. Sister Callie was confined to her bed for several months with consumption, but always showed smiles of cheerfulness and never murmured or complained, but waited her time with patience until the last few hours when she became anxious to go. Then she called her friends around her bed and admonished them to be faithful and meet her in heaven; then bowed in humble submission to him that doeth all things well. Truly, the Lord was her shepherd, and she felt in death that his rod and his staff were her comfort and shield. Sister Callie was baptized into the fellowship of Altus Baptist church in September 1891, and lived a consistent member until her death. We deeply feel our loss, but we weep not as those who have no hope; and while we bow in humble submission, we pray God's comforting grace on Brother Moseley...some hours while they are left to tread life's pathway alone. M.P. Henry

Arkansas Baptist
September 2, 1896, page 9

J.B. Cone

2011-01-10T20:52:00.000-06:00

Born Oct. 12, 1808. Died Oct. 20, 1896. Aged 87 years, 8 days.
Bro. Cone was born in Washington county, GA. Moved to Alabama with his parents when very young; he united in marriage to Miss Malinda Dean in Alabama; he professed religion at the age of thirty, at a camp meeting in Conecuh county, Alabama; joined the M.E. church, south, at the time of his conversion and lived a consistent member all of this time, fifty-eight years. he moved to Arkansas in the year 1852 and reared a large family. Bro. Cone was an honorary member of Bearhouse Lodge, No 209, F. and A.M.; was a true mason in every respect. As he grew older he would look foward to the time that did come with joy. In our Father's house are many mansions, and he said in his last moments that he would soon be home with his loved ones who had preceded him. He was happy in life and joyful in death.
Resolved:
1. That in his death the lodge has lost a true brother and a kind-hearted Christian. Let us ever imitate his life and follow his example.
2. That in humble submission to do the will of God we bow.
3. That a copy of the resolutions be spread on the mnutes of Bearhouse Lodge, and one copy furnished the Arkansas Baptist and Arkansas Methodist.
W.H. Rogers. E.V. Roney, R.B. Scott. C. Austin, Committee

Arkansas Baptist, January 13, 1896, page 15

Dr. W.A.C. Sayle

2011-01-10T19:50:00.000-06:00

Born September, 1835 in Robertson county, Tenn; was a student at William Jewel college, took the degree of M.D. from the Kentucky School of Medicine, where he graduated with honor in 1859; came to Lewisburg (the parent of Morrilton) in the same year and soon took a place in the front rank of his profession which he has held till forced to retire a few years ago; joined the Baptist church in 1860. For thirty-five years he was a leader in every laudable enterprise. He carried his church in his heart and put his very soul into the Sunday school of which he was the model superintendent. He served on the State Board as treasurer a number of years. After four years' suffering and struggling with the fell destroyer our brother succumbed , and departed to be with Christ Dec. 30, 1896, leaving his consort and a son, Mr. Claude Sayle of Little Rock, all who know him to mourn his decease. Our brother's life was a most eloquent sermon; his death, a most glorious triumph.
The battle's fought the victory's won.
The soldier's laid down his armor down;
The toiler well his task hath done,
And gone to wear a fadeless crown.
Giles C. Taylor

Arkansas Baptist, January 13, 1896, page 15

Mrs. Elizabeth Means

2011-01-10T19:32:00.000-06:00

Died at the home of her daughter Mrs. Thompson, December 6 1896, aged 79 years, 9 months and 4 days. Born in Greenville District South Carolina, March 2, 1817, daughter if Henry and Nannie Bradford; moved with her parents to St. Clair county Ala. in infancy; married to Andrew N. Means November 23 1838; professed religion in 1836; joined Mt. Zion church 1839, was baptized by Eld. Joseph Byars; moved with her family to Calhoun county Ark., 1853. She lived to a good old age full of good works that speak her praise more than pen can write or tongue can tell. She died in peace, loved by all, having lived to see her children all gathered into the fold. Her pastor feels that one of his best friends and helpers he has ever had is gone. We miss her in the home and in her church (Woodberry). She often expressed herself "just waiting to go and be with Jesus and the loved ones gone before." we thank our Father for her life and feel that nothing more could we ask. By the grace of God we will meet her on the other shore. Her pastor, L.O. Miers
Alabama Baptist please copy
Arkansas Baptist, January 13, 1897, page 15

H.H. Atkinson

2011-01-10T19:14:00.000-06:00

Born in Noxubee county, Miss., Sept. 26, 1854. Died at Star City Ark. Dec. 11 1896. Aged 42 years 2 months and 15 days.
Bro. Atkinson came with his parents to Arkansas when but a child. In 1864 he joined the Baptist church and remained faithful until death. He, with his family, moved to Star City two years ago and united with this church. He was always ready to give a reason for his hope. An affectionate husband loving father and faithful friend. Always encouraging his pastor and aiding his church by his prayers, counsel and means. He recently entered the profession of law and was growing rapidly in favor and had a bright future before him. He leaves a loving wife, three children, two brothers and two sisters sorely bereaved. May God sanctify this providence to the good of relatives and friends. D.E. Gambrell

Arkansas Baptist, January 13, 1897 page 15

Harriett Cantrell

2011-01-10T16:17:00.000-06:00

Died December 11, 1896. Aged 66 years. Born in Meigs county, Tenn. in 1830. In her infancy, her parents moved to Hamilton county and in 1860 she moved to southern Arkansas and married. Moved to Fulton county in 1891 and resided with her son-in-law B.H. Webb, until death claimed her. Such is the brief record of one who always answered duty's call. When only 16 she professed religion while in secret prayer. She joined the Presbyterians, but becoming satisfied that she had not followed Christ in Baptism, she after coming to Arkansas, joined the Baptists at Zion Hempstead county. In her last years she was a member of Liberty church in Fulton county. Her last words were, "Lord, take me now." She had fought a good fight and was ready for the victor's crown.
James C. Bryan
Arkansas Baptist January 13 1897, page 15

Jennie E. Dry

2011-01-10T16:06:00.000-06:00

Born November 13, 1871; married to Jacob M. Dry September 13 1888; united with Walnut Valley church in July 1890 and baptized by Eld. John H. Soden. died December 23, 1896, in Jackson county, Arkansas and buried in Pleasant Valley cemetery December 24. The funeral service was conducted by Eld. S.W. Abernathy.
G.B. Borah
Smithville Ark
Arkansas Baptist, January 13 1897 page 15

Mrs. Eliza Jane Buckner

2010-07-01T21:37:00.000-05:00

In Prairie Co., Ark., after an illness of over five weeks, Mrs. Eliza Jane Buckner, on Dec. 30th, 1881. She was a native of Missouri, but raised principally near Walnut Grove, Ark. Aged about 33 years. She joined Des Arc Baptist church in 1872, leaving the Methodists. " I am satisfied to go" were among her last words. God bless her husband and three babes.
P.A. Haman
DeValls Bluff, Ark

Arkansas Evangel, January 18, 1882, page 3

Mary Angeline Hanson

2010-07-01T21:32:00.002-05:00

Died: January 3rd, at the residence of her father, Mr. Jno. S. McDearmon, Judsonia, White county, Ark., Mary Angeline Hanson, wife of Benj. F. Hanson. Mrs Hanson was born in King county, Tenn., Sept. 1850; united with the Sulphur Springs Baptist church (now Platean) in 1874 and married in 1877. At the early age of twenty-three she is called away leaving a child too young to realize his loss, and one has gone before. Mrs. H. belonged to a family whose tie of kindred nothing but death could sever, not even a devoted husband could more sincerely mourn or deeply feel this affliction than do her loving parents.
"Some feelings are to mortals given
With loss of earth in them than heaven"
Arkansas Evangel, January 18, 1882, page 3

T. M. Files

2010-06-09T01:36:00.000-05:00

At Fordyce, Dallas county, Ark. Feb. 8th, 1884. T.M. Files, son of R. and M.E. Files. He was born Aug. 23, 1859 in the state of Ala., his parents moved to Ark. in 1860. He was 24 years, 5 months and 15 days at the time of his death, he was highly respected by all who knew him. In his death the community has sustained a great loss, as he was a young man that bid fair for future usefulness. His remains were taken to the Baptist church at Chamberville and there interred surrounded by a crowd of weeping friends.
G. B. Talbott
Arkansas Evangel, April 3, 1884, page 3

John M. Files

2010-06-09T01:30:00.000-05:00

At the residence of his brother, Calhoun county, Ark., John M. Files, son of rev. A. and Sarah Files. He was born in Tuscalusa, Ala., May 8th, 1851, his father moved to Arkansas with the family in 1869. He departed this life Feb. 2nd, 1883 after an illness of thirty days, aged 26 years, 8 months and 26days. We greatly sympathize with relatives and especially with our aged sister the mother of the deceased. May the Lord comfort her in this sad affliction.
G. B. Talbott
Arkansas Evangel, April 3, 1884, page 3

Sallie McCann

2010-06-09T01:24:00.002-05:00

March 2nd, 1884, at 8 o'clock p.m., Mrs. Sallie McCann, wife of James McCann. This good sister has been a member of the Baptist church for the last five years. She left a husband and five little children to mourn her loss.
S.N. McCann
Arkansas Evangel, April 3, 1884, page 3

Richard Wright

2010-06-09T01:20:00.000-05:00

Died at the residence of his son near Three Creeks, Union Co., Ark., on the evening of Nov. 1st, 1883, Richard Wright in the 78th year of his age.
He was born near Cape Girardeau, MO., Jan. 28th, 1805, and remained in that state until he was about 12 years old, when he moved with his family to Hempstead Co., Ark. He remained in that county several years, and then migrated to Louisiana, where he was married to Miss Mary Henderson, of Claiborne Parish, in 1824. Afterward he returned to Arkansas, and settled in Union Co., where the last forty-four years of his life passed. Brother Wright was a good citizen, and served his county as Justice of the Peace 16 years. He united with New Hope Baptist church in 1860, and was baptized by the lamented Rev. Mr. Gray. From that time until his death he lived an humble and consecrated
Christian life. He was particularly noted for his attachment to his church and especially to its pastors. Therefore the cause of Christianity has sustained a great loss in his death.
Brother Wright suffered many bereavements during his life,; his wife and eight of his children preceeded him to the land of everlasting rest. But two of his children remain to mourn his death. May God comfort them and the many sorrowing friends. His last illness was long and painful, but he was resigned to the will of the Lord, only that he desired to depart and be with Christ.
Arkansas Evangel, November 22, 1883

Wife of Rev, James P. Kellem

2010-06-04T23:46:00.000-05:00

The wife if James P. Kellem of Searcy, died last Sabbath morning at 5 o'clock. She was sixty-four years old., and had been in bad health for about two years. She was buried on Monday at 2 o'clock pm from the Methodist house of worship.
Western Baptist, April 24, 1875, page 3