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William A. Hicks
Aug 20, 1874 - May 9. 1923
HUGHES-MCKIE WELL STILL BURNING�FOURTEEN KNOWN DEAD
THOUSANDS VISITED LOCATION OF GURNING WELL�CROWDS THRONGED THROUGH
MORGUE VIEWING BODIES
Like an active volcano in eruption, belching forth terrific flames
of burning fire constantly fed by the constant flow of oil and gas,
the Hughes-McKie well in holocaust which has cost at least 14 men
their lives, continues to gush forth its awful blaze at 3 o'clock
today.
For twenty-four solid hours flames ranging from 30 feet to 150 feet
have leaped high in the air in its spectacular capers. Red streaks
of flame ascend as from a mighty nozzle, and disappear in the form
of huge black clouds of smoke, which drift with the wind in a
surging blast.
The wind switched from the southward during the night and the mighty
smokestack releases its flow in the direction of Powell, leaving
darkened elements in its wake.
Thousands hurried frantically to the fields during last night to
witness the spectacular fire-works.
The well being situated on the east bank of the creek is surrounded
by tall timber. A rough one-way traffic road forming a winding snake
trail for two miles is the only means of vehicle access to the
scene. The roads were choked with vehicle traffic within a short
time after the fire started. This kept up all night.
The well has been fenced off and traffic barred on the narrow road
to give the men full right of way in getting boilers to the
location.
Every company owning equipment in the Powell fields has tendered the
use of all available boilers and other equipment to extinguish the
flame.
Men are working like Trojans to get the equipment in place. It will
be necessary to use fire foam and steam from a dozen boilers.
The burned bodies of at least six men remain in the fire zone
according to DeWitt Watkins, who is working at the well today. He
stated to a reporter of the Sun this morning that five bodies could
be seen near the well, and there was another one missing. He also
stated he believed that one or two spectators perished.
Jim Ball foreman in charge of the work believes the final death toll
will reach 18.
Mr. Hughes accompanied by J. S. Banks, his attorney, are at the well
this afternoon checking up on the number of dead and missing.
Hundreds of spectators thronged in and out and lingered about the
Sutherland Undertaking establishment all day Thursday eager to catch
a glimpse of the charred bodies of a number of the working crew
which perished in the big blaze Wednesday afternoon when the Hughes-McKie
No. 1 well ignited.
Five of the bodies, charred and disfigured by the flames almost
beyond recognition, were brought to the morgue early last night.
They have been identified as follows:
W.A. PHILLIPS, Kerens.
W. A. HICKS, Wortham.
JACK COOPER, Corsicana.
FRED CRAIG, Roane.
L. P. SHEEK, Dallas.
The bodies of Travis Owen and Emmett Bird, both of Kerens, were
brought from the Physicians and Surgeons hospital later in the
night, Owen died at 7 o'clock and Bird died at 11:05 o'clock. These
two men were dragged from the fire zone and hurried to Corsicana.
Each lived only a few hours.
C. B. Keever, J. E. Keever, J. R. Ferris and Jesse Blair from the
Keever Undertaking company at Ennis arrived early last night to
assist in preparing the bodies for burial.
The bodies of S. P. Allen, field foreman; E. C. Cooper, driller;
James Phillips, L. C. Coop, M. O. Turner, have not been recovered.
Max Meisner and Charlie Walker are believed to have perished. The
charred remains of four can be seen near the well. They cannot be
recovered on account of the intensity of the heat.
Funerals This Afternoon.
Funerals for four of the victims of yesterday�s terrible oil field
holocaust took place this afternoon. The bodies of W. A. (Ban)
Phillips and Travis Owen were taken to Rural Shade were both were
raised; Emmett Byrd was interred in Eureka, his former home, and
Fred Craig was laid to rest at Chatfield, which was his childhood
home.
The ladies of Corsicana and the Chamber of Commerce covered each of
the caskets with magnificent flowers.
The remains of L. C. Sheek were sent to Dallas this afternoon and
the body of W. A. Hicks will be sent to Wortham tomorrow.
The roustabout crew of 20 men working in the vicinity of the well
escaped. Several teamsters and tank men were passing in and about
the premises and rushed to the aid of the burning men, but the blaze
had swept the bottom before they could be reached.
A negro teamster succeeded in loosening his team from the material
wagon and escaped with them. The wagon and its contents were
consumed.
Tragic Spectacle.
The scene about the well presented a sad and tragic spectacle when
the monstrous explosion came. Both the day and the night crew
consisting of twelve men had just started work a short while before.
Several bystanders near the well escaped with their lives by
running. It is believed that more dead bodies are in the burned area
in addition to the known dead.
Men ran in every direction in a frenzy and fell when overcome.
Jimmy Meeks, oil field scout for the Humble Oil & Refining Company;
E. W. Quinlin, scout for the Simms Oil Company; Ellis Hammel,
drilling contractor; and DeWitt Watkins, members of the roustabout
crew, did heroic work in attempting to save the men from their awful
death.
Heroic Rescue Work.
Bravely defying all danger at the risk of their own lives rushed
headlong to the burning prostrate forms of the groaning men in death
agonies in answer to their piteous cries for help and succeeded in
bringing them out. The men breathed their last as they were being
carried out of the gas, smoke and fire.
Jim Ball escaped with B. B. Simmonds, N. M. Dunman and Dick Pyle. As
they made their exit from the timber, Ball turned back to assist
Owen. He succeeded in getting him into the open but too late to save
his life. Charlie Lewis of Corsicana ran to the assistance of Bird.
Piteous cries for water went up from the two dying men as the
ambulance brought them to the hospital.
Meeks, Quinlan, Hammel and Watkins returned towards the well for the
other perishing men, but were unable to reach them. Their bodies had
been practically reduced to ashes in the blaze which had gained
headway. Waste oil in the bottom covering almost an acre upon which
large trees saturated with oil had become enveloped in the frenzied
inferno.
Quinlan is a world war hero. A native of New York State, he served
in the French Army during the early days of the war. Later he served
with the Canadian forces.
Quinlan is the possessor of several war medals. He was awarded the
Medalto Militaire; the Croix Guerre, and while in the British he
service he was the first American to be awarded the Victoria Cross.
He received several hard jolts in the war, in the rescue work
Wednesday the fumes and smoke temporarily almost overcame him.
Phone Girls Busy.
Shortly after three o'clock a man called the Johnson Drug Store from
the Commercial Hotel and communicated the first news that reached
Corsicana of the terrible disaster. The caller at the same time told
Miss Valsey Hubbard, the operator, that he wanted every doctor
available to go to the scene of the McKie well. The call was
immediately referred to the chief operator. She rang the Corsicana
Surgical and Medical clinic and asked that the doctors be sent. The
hospital and every drug store in town were called to assist in every
possible way. The undertaking parlors soon dispatched ambulances
toward the fire. Emergency telephone calls from Powell, Kerens and
Corsicana came pouring into the central office running as high as
2,400 calls per hour.
Frantic calls from various individuals were made in effort to locate
the families of the dead and injured men.
Public memorial services will be held at the gospel tent at 7:45
o'clock Friday evening under the auspices of the Chamber of
Commerce. Rev. Alonzo Monk, Jr., will withhold his regular revival
services until after the memorial ceremonies.
The Chamber of Commerce today sent floral offerings to the families
of the deceased. A suitable medal will be provided for the family of
each man by the commercial organization in commemoration of their
brave efforts towards the development of the oil resources of the
county.
Among the members of the roustabout crew escaping are L. W. Wilkitz,
E. W. Arnett, Whyne Short, J. W. Crosby, Jas. A. McDaniels, J. A.
Story, Jim Ball, Ned Dumas, and Johnnie Kennon. The names of the
other men have not been learned.
These men had been gathered up from various leases in the Mexia
district and brought to assist in taking care of the well. The
working record and the names of the men were in Mr. Allen�s pocket,
and none of the surviving members are able to give the names of all
the men.
Superintendent Walker of the city schools of Henrietta, and wife,
father and mother of Mrs. S. P. Allen, and father of Charlie Walker,
arrived in Corsicana early today.
Station Agent Wyatt and daughters of Plano, friends of the Walker
family are also here.
Mr. Allen�s mother, and Miss Walker of Denton are also here. Miss
Walker is a teacher in the Denton College of Industrial Arts. She is
a sister of Mrs. Allen.
Notes:
-----
MEMORIAL SERVICES FOR MEN WHO LOST LIVES IN OIL FIRE
Memorial services in honor of the oil field workers who lost their
lived in the big blaze at the Hughes-McKie well Wednesday will be
held at the gospel tent, Eleventh street and Seventh avenue at 7:45
o'clock Friday evening.
The ceremonies will be conducted under the auspices of the Chamber
of Commerce. Mayor J. S. Eubank and members of the city
administration, presidents of the Rotary, Lions, Civic, Advertising
clubs, the Retail Merchants� Association will occupy a place on the
rostrum.
Every minister in town will take part in the program.
The ministers will conduct a prayer service. Hugh L. Hiett will
sing.
Hon. Luther A. Johnson will make the address of condolence. Other
speakers will take part.
Notes:
--
FUNERAL SUNDAY FOR REMAINING OIL FIRE VICTIMS
MEN WHO LOST LIVES IN BIG OIL FIELD FIRE WILL BE BURIED HERE
Funeral services for S. P. Allen, Charles Walker, Jim Phillips, C.
M. Cooper, E. C. Cooper and L. C. Cook, fire victims of the burning
Hughes-McKie oil well, will be held at the First Methodist Church at
2:30 o'clock Sunday afternoon, according to announcement made today
by W. S. Banks, attorney for the J. K. Hughes Development Company.
Rev. Alonzo Monk, Jr., pastor of the church assisted by Rev. C. G.
Vineer, pastor of the Church of Christ, will conduct the services.
The remains of the six bodies will be interred in one casket in a
specially provided lot in
Oakwood cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Hon. Luther A. Johnson, Mayor J. S.
Eubank, R. J. Jackson, Sam J. Jackson, John C. Calhoun, R. J.
Graves, J. L. Halbert and W. H. Hastings.
The smouldering remains of the six men were recovered from the fire
area of the ill-fated Hughes-McKie well several days after it caught
fire May 9. They have been held at the Sutherland Undertaking
Parlors pending the possible recovery of another body believed to
have been undiscovered in the debris.
Seven of the perish crew were recovered from the fire shortly after
the blaze started. Each were positively identified, and have been
buried.
Mr. Banks stated today that the six remaining bodies had been
sufficiently identified as to justify giving out the name of each.
He stated the official casualty list of the J. K. Hughes Development
company places the number of known dead and accounted for at 13. The
list is as follows:
S. P. Allen, L. C. Cook, M. O. Turner, Charles Walker, Travis Owens,
W. M. (Ban) Phillips, Jim Phillips, L. P. Sheek, W. A. Hicks, C. M.
(Jack) Cooper, E. C. Cooper, Emmett G. Byrd, and Fred E. Craig.
One report carried the name of Max Meisner as among the dead and
missing. Mr. Banks stated today that communication had been
established with Mr. Meisner, and the Hughes company is certain he
escaped injury. The company had the fire area thoroughly scorched by
men clad in asbestos clothing, and no other body was found. Mr.
Banks stated the company feels certain that the bodies of all men
who perished in the fire has been found.
The J. K. Hughes Development Company has planned to erect a suitable
monument over the grave of the six men to be buried in Oakwood
cemetery in remembrance of the total number of its employees losing
their lives in the big fire.
A change of plans for extinguishing the fire at the burning well
late yesterday appears to have been extended the time before the
blaze is stopped. W. H. McClintock has assembled a rig of his own
making and patent, which he is confident will put out the fire when
brought into play, but so far the apparatus has not been applied.
Work was suspended at the well at 5 o'clock Friday, and nothing was
done during the night. A different apparatus containing a T-joint
and valve gear model has been completed, and efforts are being
directed towards apply it before the McClintock machine is used.
Rain last night rendered the creek bottoms and the roads leading to
the field in a very muddy condition. Transportation out from town
was slow early today, which operated to cause some delay in getting
work under way Saturday morning.
Although the roads were very slippery, teams and heavy trucks were
on the road with tons of materials for the various new locations for
drillings.
A meeting of the stockholders of the Cor-Tex Deep Well Company was
held at the well just south of town at 3 o'clock this afternoon.
Plans for resuming operations at the test were thoroughly gone over.
Several interested individuals attended the meeting and reports are
that much enthusiasm is evidenced over the proposed new operations
there.
The test south of Blooming Grove to be put down by Dr. Stubbs and
Dunbar spudded in at 4 o'clock. Several went out from Corsicana to
see the bit take its first plunge into the surface. A local
photographer was present to take a view of the rig and the crowds
assembled to see the new test stared.
Notes:
Dalton
Eugene Miller
May 3, 1933 - Dec 25, 2015
 Dalton
Eugene Miller was a beautiful soul and loving husband,
father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Dalton (Sonny,
or as he came to be known to most, Pops), 82, was wrapped in
the arms of God and transitioned to his heavenly home to be
with his sweet wife, Doris Mae Miller, on Friday, Dec., 25,
2015.
Pops was born in Shade Township, Somerset County,
Pennsylvania, on May 3, 1933. He spent his childhood around
the Windber, Pennsylvania area before joining the Air Force.
While he was stationed in Denver, Colorado, he met the love
of his life, Doris Mae Miller (Granny) at the local
roller-skating rink. She offered to help him skate, and from
there it was history. They married in 1952. During their 63
years of marriage, they created countless cherished memories
with their daughters Denice, Deana and Darcel.
While Pops served in the Air Force, he and Granny moved from
Colorado to Florida, then Mississippi and Texas. The family
settled in Texas in the early 60�s, and spent most of the
remainder of their lives raising their children and
grandchildren in Haslet, Texas. Pops was a photographer in
the Air Force for 14 years and spent the remainder working
in avionics at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in
Fort Worth, Texas. He served a total of 34 years in the Air
Force, including time spent during the
Korean War, and was
stationed at various locations overseas.
Pops could do it all, he was a jack of all trades. Pops
could do anything with his hands including; farming,
electrical, mechanical work, built an entire home, and he
was never afraid to learn on his own. He instilled
confidence and hard work in his children and grandchildren
and taught each of them that they could do anything they put
their mind to. He was the best example of unconditional
love. Pops encouraged his entire family to get an education
and that hard work really does pay off. He was a very soft
spoken, loving man.
Pops and Granny lived the last 10 years of her life at
Richland Chambers Lake in Kerens, Texas. They loved
gardening together and continued to sow the seeds of their
love.
Pops is preceded in death by his loving wife, Doris and his
parents, Foster Miller and Florence Alverta Weaver.
Brothers; Dwight Leroy Miller, Leonard Paul Miller, Herold
Mervin Miller. Sisters Dorothy Mae Miller and Betty LaRue
Miller Parish. Grandson, Thomas Hanrahan III and
Granddaughter, April Nicole Shelman.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Denice (David) Webb
from Haslet, Texas, Deana (Richard) Trawick from Hillsboro,
Texas, and Darcel (Thomas) Shelman from Kerens, Texas. Nine
grandchildren and their spouses, and 20 great-grandchildren.
Visitation with the family will be Monday, Dec. 28, 2015
from 6 to 8 p.m. at Corley Funeral Home.
Graveside services will be held Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015 at
Chapel Cemetery in Haslet, Texas at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers the family respectfully requests
donations be made to the Parkinson�s Foundation or Michael
J. Fox Foundation. |
Notes:
Hugh Sidney
Garland
Apr 4, 1949 - Dec 2015
 Hugh
Sidney Garland passed away peacefully at his home. He was
born in Corsicana on April 4, 1949. Sidney attended the
Corsicana Catholic school and later Corsicana High School.
He joined the United States Army in 1966. He served in
Vietnam with Delta
Company 2nd Battalion 501st infantry 101st airborne division.
Later he also served with the 82nd airborne division. He was
awarded the Bronze Star with Valor and one oak leaf cluster.
He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds he received in
Combat.
Sidney loved riding his motorcycle and was a proud active
member of the North Texas Patriot Guard riders. Sidney made
frequent visits to the Dallas VA hospital where he could be
seen visiting with Veterans and staff of the VA Community
Living Center. He enjoyed visits to National Cemeteries and
Veteran Memorials and volunteered and contributed to
numerous charities.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Hugh Garland and
Elizabeth Beavers Garland and wife, Shirline Garland.
His memory lives on through United States Marine Veteran
Christopher Sidney Garland, daughter Tracy Elizabeth
Garland, daughter Stacy Renee Garland, grandson Active Duty
United States Sailor Jonathan Sweeney, grandson Active Duty
United States Sailor Jacob Williams, grandson Joshua
Sweeney, grandson Joseph Williams, granddaughter Taylor
Garland, granddaughter Kylie Garland, grandson Brandon
Jolly, son-in-law Harley Miller, stepson Kin Prewitt,
stepdaughters Tonya Prewitt Doyle, Ondrea Northern and
numerous other loved family members and friends.
Graveside service will be held 10 a.m. am Saturday, Jan. 2,
2016 at the Dallas National Cemetery. Memorial service will
be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton
Funeral Home.
Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home |
Notes:
William
Loving Medaris
Dec 7, 1860 - Jun 14, 1921
PROMINENT CITIZEN DEAD.
Remains of W. L. Medaris Laid to Rest at Chatfield.
W. L. Medaris, one of Navarro county�s best known and most highly
esteemed citizens, died suddenly at his home near Roane at 3:30
yesterday afternoon after an illness of a few minutes. He had eaten
his dinner and went out on his farm to look after work being done by
some negro tenants, and was taken sick in the field, and died a few
minutes after reaching his home. The deceased was born and reared in
Freestone county, and moved to this county about thirty years ago.
He is survived by his wife and five children, Roy Medaris, of
Corsicana, Mrs. R. J. Graves of Corsicana, Mrs. D. D. Wylie and Mrs.
Allen Boiles and Eddie Medaris of the Roane community. The deceased
was a Mason and a Baptist, and Rev. Mr. McKissack, a life long
friend, of Streetman, officiated at the services in the home, and
the Masons had charge of the services at the grave at 4:30 this
afternoon, with interment in the
Chatfield cemetery.
There was an immense attendance at the grave and many beautiful
flowers.
Notes:
---
Funeral Wednesday Afternoon.
Funeral services for W. L. Medaris who died suddenly Tuesday
afternoon, were conducted yesterday afternoon, the Rev. Mr.
McKissack of Streetman and the Masons having charge of the services.
The deceased was well known in Navarro county and had many friends
who will join in extending their sympathy to the bereaved family.
The funeral was largely attended and there were many beautiful
floral offerings.
The following acted as pallbearers:
Active�K. E. McKee, J. A. Wallace, R. M. McMullen, O. E. Stone, Dr.
J. J. Hamilton, J. A. Bonner.
Honorary�A. M. Milligan, Pole Edens, W. A. Mizell, Carl McMullen, J.
T. Montfort, Dr. E. B. Lowrey, A. J. Barker, Robt. Montfort, Geo. L.
Jackson, S. A. Reagan, C. W. Reagan, A. Adams, D. H. Bell, W. H.
Jeffers, J. H. Laningham, C. R. Graves, J. B. Thorp, B. F. Guynes,
W. B. Finch, Tom Chandler, J. H. Frick, Will Jackson, Mat Montfort,
W. W. Hurlburt, J. M. Dyer, Murphy Williams, Lee Bonner, Wes Redden,
R. R. Graves, Perry McCammon, W. A. Malore.
Notes:
--
In Loving Memory of Our Friend, W. L. Medaris.
Mr. Medaris was born near Fairfield, Freestone county, December 7,
1860, and died at Montfort, Navarro county, June 14, 1921, just 61
years, 6 months and 7 days of usefulness given to the betterment of
this earth and to the glory of God. He came to this county in 1887.
At that time this place was known as Bradley School House. There
were no regular church services here then, but Mr. Medaris started
in with all the zeal of his young manhood to build up a church here.
He himself having joined the Baptist church at the age of 22. After
a long hard struggle he built up a good church and a live Sunday
School, and we as a community and church owe thanks to him for being
what it is now and what it was in the past. He was Sunday School
Superintendent for many years. He was regular in attendance until
bad health prevented. He labored long and hard to make us realize
the condition of our spiritual lives and did all a human could do to
better conditions. He gave liberally to the church, and the cry of
the needy was never turned coldly aside, but was given honest and
prayerful attention.
He worked for the social benefit of the community, always encouraged
any movement for the better. He was interested in the school. He was
also one of the first in the great war work. He gave money and time
to keep the torch burning which was handed to us by the boys �In
Flanders Field� to light the world to a better place and a better
understanding of God.
Mr. Medaris was manager of the Bradley-McQuary estate. He was a man
of his word. His words were accepted as his bond by his tenants,
some of whom have been with him for 15 or 20 years. They mourn him
as a dear friend and neighbor and as a man whose business motto was
�Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.� He had his
human weaknesses, it is true, but we loved him in spite of them and
they made him the more dear to us, for we could see how he strived
to overcome them. That set a good example for us all, and gave us
courage to renew our own battles. There is no man who will be more
missed from our midst than Mr. Medaris, for almost everyone in the
county knew him. His memory will be kept as a comforting thought in
the hearts of all who loved and cherished him, as an example of what
a firm faith in God, can accomplish for a man. It made a good
husband and father of him, which is testified to by the love and
obedience of his wife and children. He was ever thoughtful of their
welfare, and his children were his pride, for he lived to see them
grow to useful manhood and womanhood.
And to you, dear ones, he left you a wonderful heritage, his faith
in God. I know you miss him every hour, but if he knew he would want
you not to grieve so for him, but take up his work and follow on.
There is no use to say, don�t grieve, for I know by sad experience
that only the merciful hand of time can heal that desolate ache.
Here is a poem that comforts me, for it means every single one of
you, and every heart that aches in the world:
Each by Name.
Never a foolish little lamb astray in the gleaming dim,
But the tender Shepherd knoweth its name, and calleth it home to
Him.
In the flock and the fold the sheep are His, and He keepeth them
close in His care;
And each for itself in the Shepherd�s heart hath its own peculiar
share.
Never a moor so wrapped in mist, was a hill so gray and dim,
But the Shepherd counteth His lambkins there, and watcheth them one
by one.
Never a day so bleak and chill, nor a night so dark and drear,
But the tireless love of the Shepherd waits for the sheep that are
passing dear.
Never a weary, way-worn sheep in the great world flock today
But may hear the call of the Shepherd�s voice may follow Him and
obey.
The Shepherd hath ransomed the great world flock, He hath brought it
for His own,
And He loveth and guardeth it, one by one, as were each in the world
alone.
Mr. Medaris was a Democrat in politics. He was commissioner of this
district for one term. Also he was a Mason and had been for 30 or 35
years.
Mr. Medaris was married in 1882, near Fairfield to Miss Charity P.
Speed. God gave them one boy, William Roy Medaris, of Corsicana. The
mother had finished her mission, for God called her in 1885.
In 1886 Mr. Medaris was married to Miss Isabella E. Speed. They
lived one year in Freestone county, then moved to Navarro, where
they spent the rest of their lives together. Their union was blessed
with four children, Mrs. R. J. Graves of Corsicana, Mrs. D. D.
Wylie, Mrs. R. A. Doyles and Eddie Medaris of this community.
Mr. Medaris was suddenly stricken. He had been in poor health for
several years, but was able to attend to his business. He was buried
at Chatfield June 15th. The funeral services were held at the home,
Rev. Mr. Stanley of Streetman officiating. His address showed the
high esteem in which Mr. Medaris was held. The song service was held
by Mrs. George F. Miller, Mr. C. A. Middleton and Mr. and Mrs. Will
Cheney of Corsicana. The song service was beautiful and comforting.
One song, �We Shall Gather at the River,� was sung by request. The
funeral took place at the Chatfield cemetery. The funeral procession
was one of the most impressive ever beheld in this neighborhood. The
Masons took charge at the cemetery and used their usual solemn and
beautiful burial ceremony. The floral offerings were unusually
beautiful. Besides the other offerings the �Sunflower Grove� at this
place sent a wreath representing their name. the Masons sent a
beautiful wreath also. The flowers, in their still beauty were such
a beautiful symbolism of our future life, for we see the cold winds
cause them to wither away, but in the spring they are resurrected to
a more lovely form of beauty.
We have tried in our weak way to express the sorrow and sympathy of
a sorrowing community. We ask God to guide and keep us all and
especially protect and comfort the bereaved ones. �So live that when
thy summons comes to join the innumerable caravan which moves to
that mysterious stream where each shall take his chamber in the
silent halls of death, then go not like the quarry slave at night,
sentenced to his dungeon, but sustained and soothed by an
unfaltering trust, approach thy grave. Like one that wraps the
drapery of his cloak about him and lies down to pleasant dreams.�
Written by
Mr. and Mrs. J. T. BROWN.
Notes:
--
Written in Memory of William Loving Medaris.
He was born December 7, 1860, in Freestone county, Texas and died
June 14, 1921, at his home near Montfort, Texas. He was sixty years,
six months and seven days old. Mr. Medaris was born from above and
united with the Missionary Baptist church in 1882; for thirty-eight
years he has been a child of God and has stood firm for the
doctrines of Jesus Christ.
Tranquil amid alarms
It found him on the field
A worker ready with his arms,
Bearing his red-cross shield.
His sword was in his hand,
Still warm with recent fight,
Ready at a moment�s command
Thro rock and steel to smite.
One thing I wish to mention was the firmness which our brother in
Christ practiced in his life. He was not found on the fence in
religion or in politics; he took a stand and that for the right, as
we should all do, and he was not carried about with every wind of
doctrine but he contended earnestly for the Faith once delivered to
the saints and that was one reason that he accomplished so much in
his life, and he was loved and admired because he had the grace and
the courage to live for God and stand firm at all times and under
all circumstances; like Paul of old he was true and faithful.
How hard to give him up
No mortal one can see;
But the Lord has called him back
From this dark world to heaven.
Now his wife sits so lonely,
And his children�s hearts are sad,
While his sisters� hearts are breaking
And his friends feel so sad.
Sleep on dear one,
Sleep on, it won�t be long
Until we�ll go to meet you
Among the ransomed throng.
Mr. Medaris was married to Miss Charity P. Speed in 1882. To them
was born one child, Mr. William Roy Medaris. On August 9, 1885 his
wife died and in 1886 he was married to Isabella Ester Speed, a
sister of his first wife. To them was born three daughters and one
son, Mrs. D. D. Wylie, Mrs. R. J. Graves, Mrs. B. A. Boyles and
Eddie Medaris.
Every one that knew him
Is filled with grief today.
Because this precious jewel
Has passed from earth away.
Yes, now his body is sleeping
Beneath the cold, cold sod;
But then his spirit�s living,
In heaven above with God.
He was a true democrat, a good citizen, a kind husband and father, a
person ready and willing to help anyone in need, a friend to all
both rich and poor. This fact was proven on the day of the funeral.
People from all parts of this county came to look for the last time
on the face of this good man in some of the county�s best autos on
down to �old Fords,� and some in buggies, for like his Savior he was
no respecter of persons.
His wife and all his children and four small grand children, also
three sisters, Mrs. Kate Walker of Dallas, Mrs. Minnie Kennedy of
Vernon and Mrs. Mary Lowry of Tulsa, Okla., and a number of other
relatives and a host of friends are left to grieve over his
departure; but dear friends and loved ones if he could speak to us
today he would say-----
Gone are some who love you,
But they wait above you,
And to them the Savior
Waits your soul to guide.
Angel voices falling
Now to you are calling,
Waiting for the meeting
One the other side.
God help each one of us to say,
Thy will, not mine be done;
Grant we may meet our dear one
At the setting of the sun.
Funeral services were conducted at his home by Rev. J. F. Stanley
and Rev. Caraway and his body was laid to rest in the cemetery at
Chatfield beneath a mound of beautiful flowers. The Masons conducted
the services at the grave, he being a member of that lodge. There
was a large crowd attended his funeral to pay their last tribute of
respect to a man that was loved and respected by all who knew him.
Blessed are they that die in the Lord for the works do follow them.
MRS. EDGAR PIKE.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Thursday, Jul 28, 1921
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- 1st wife Charity Pamelia (Speed) Medaris married 1882
(died Aug. 9, 1885) 2nd wife Isabel Esther (Speed) Medaris
married 1886 (sister of first wife) s/o O. C. Medaris and Mary
(Goodwin) Medaris per death certificate
---
IN Memoriam of W. L. Medaris.
W. L. Medaris was born in Freestone county, Texas, Dec. 7, 1860, and departed this life June 14, 1921, at the age of 61 years, at the family home near Montfort, Navarro county, Texas.
Mr. Medaris was born at a critical period in the history of this state and spent his boyhood in the county of his birth under all the disadvantages of the era of reconstruction following the civil war. His educational opportunities were limited, but notwithstanding he became a man of true worth. His sterling character took form at an early age, and throughout his life he exerted upon all with whom he came in contact a profound influence for good.
At the age of 22 years, Mr. Medaris became a member of the Missionary Baptist church and lived in that faith consistently to his death. In 1887 he moved from Freestone county to the county of Navarro and settled in the community where he died. The country being new and undeveloped there were few churches or schools and the instrumentalities of social service were very meager. But this man was undaunted, and soon set himself to work in an endeavor to establish and build up a church, and as a result thereof the Montfort Baptist church was established and Mr. Medaris became one of the leading members from the date of its organization. For many years he served in the capacity of deacon, and was superintendent of Sunday school almost constantly. However, his greatest service was not in his official church position, but in his genuine fellowship and love for his fellow man. In his religious convictions he was firm, yet liberal, and never denied to any one the right to his own beliefs. His death is a great loss to the religious forces of this county.
Mr. Medaris was a Mason for many years and so far as is humanly possible he attained the ideal set by that order. To the by-laws and regulations of his lodge he was always obedient, and in the performances of the fraternal obligation imposed upon him he was most diligent. He loved the lodge next to his church, and its work and ritual he contributed a great deal of his time and the best of his talent. He became a Mason while the lodge was located at Chatfield, but later the lodge being removed to Rice, Texas, he followed and was th the time of his death a member of Rice Lodge No. 577.
Politically Mr. Medaris was a democrat and always supported the principles for which that party stands. He took a keen interest in the government of his country, local, state and national. He served his county as commissioner for one term and to the duties of this office he gave an honest and diligent attention and stood for what he believed to be right without fear or favor. But Mr. Medaris was a democrat in the broader sense and was an uncompromising champion of human liberty. He believed in the equality of opportunity, in the rule of law guided by reason, and was always considerate of the rights of the minority. Naturally inclined to individual independence the environment of his early life and the training and experience of his boyhood brought out those qualities to full development.
Mr. Medaris was an advocate of human progress. Knowing that the race could not stand still, he refused to go backward, and was ever found in the forefront of the combre march of civilization. To the interest of his community he was always devoted and was considered by all who knew him as the logical leader of all movements for the betterment of the people. He took a keen interest in all manner of social improvement. Was an advocate of good roads, good schools, good churches, good homes and the natural result of all, good citizenship. During the late world war we had an opportunity to observe the heart of the man really at work. He was active in his support of the war program of the government, and with the greatest patriotic fervor he did his bit. He bought bonds and war savings stamps till it hurt and in many ways made himself an aid and support to the morale of the people whose duty it was to back up the armies at the front.
In his business life Mr. Medaris was a shining example of honesty and integrity. He dealt with his fellow man as he would that his fellow man should deal with him. His word once given became to him at least, his bond, and was most scrupulously kept. His honesty and trustworthiness was one of his strongest characteristics and his reputation in that regard was none too good for the character upon which it was based.
He had a wide and varied experience as a farmer and landlord, this occupation being that to which he devoted the business activities of a life time. Of this business he made a signal success, and had he loved the dollar a little more and his fellowman much less, could have amassed a fortune. Mr. Medaris during his life time had many tenants on his farm, and the trust and confidence they imposed in him is a fitting testimonial of the bigness of his soul. He always believed that co-operation should govern the relation between him and them, and he put that principle into practice. He believed that his interests were identical with theirs, and that when his tenant prospered he would prosper, and as a result of this every man who ever lived on or cultivated his farm directly or indirectly became his staunch friend.
Mr. Medaris married while yet a young man to Miss Charity Speed of Freestone county, Texas, this union was solemnized in 1882, and to them was born one son, W. Roy Medaris of this city. The young wife and mother died in 1885. The following year, Mr. Medaris married Miss Isabella Speed, a sister of his former wife. There were born to this union four children, Mrs. D. D. Wylie, Montfort, Texas; Mrs. R. J. Graves, Corsicana; Mrs. B. A. Boyles, Montfort, Texas, and Eddie Medaris who still resides at the family home. Also surviving is the bereaved wife and three sisters, Mrs. W. F. Walker, Dallas; Mrs. D. D. Kennedy, Vernon, Texas, and Mrs. J. C. Lowery, Tulsa, Okla.
In his home life, Mr. Medaris was an ideal husband and father. He taught his children by example as much as by precept and took the lead in all family activities whether it be work or play. He asked his family to endure nothing that he was not willing to undergo, and he claimed no joys for himself that he did not share with them. In their bereavement those surviving have the sympathy of a vast host of friends, a host numbered by the extent of Mr. Medaris� acquaintance.
Mr. Medaris was laid to rest in the Chatfield cemetery and funeral was attended by a host of friends of the family. The floral offerings were many and were fitting testimonial of the esteem in which he was generally regarded. The funeral service was had at the family residence.
Notes:
Ruby Murry
Dec 3, 1911 - Jan 4, 1918
Obituary
Ruby Murray departed this life January 4th, 1918, at the age of
seven years. She leaves her mother, Mrs. Hallie Murray and a
brother, Alba, and sister, Jewel, also her devoted grandparents, Mr.
and Mrs. Wm. Avins.
Although an afflicted child since baby-hood she was always patient
and of a most lovable disposition, and will be greatly missed. While
we mourn the loss of our dear one, we are comforted by the thought
that she is safe in the arms of Jesus, and that she is forever free
from all suffering and sorrow. Her little task here is completed,
and she has been called to her reward. What a joyful meeting that
will be, when we all pass on through this vale of tears, to that
beautiful home above, where we shall meet all the dear ones gone on
before.
A FRIEND.
Notes:
William
Thomas Aven
Mar 3, 1854 - Sep 21, 1934
FUNERAL FOR AGED NAVARRO PIONEER IS HELD SATURDAY
Funeral rites for William Thomas Aven, eighty-year-old pioneer
resident of Navarro county, who died north of Powell Friday morning
at 5 o'clock were held at 2:30 Saturday afternoon at the Bazette
church, with interment in the
Bazette cemetery. The
services were conducted by Rev. W. Z. Corbin, Baptist minister.
He had been ill but a short time.
Surviving are two sons, L. E. Aven, Fort Worth, and J. C. Aven,
Emhouse; three daughters, Mrs. Hallie Murray, Powell; Mrs. W. B.
Turns, Richland and Mrs. Will Pierce, Powell; a brother, A, J. Aven,
Shellwater, Texas and other relatives.
Funeral arrangements were handled by Corley Funeral Home.
Notes:
Martha Bell �Mattie�
(Farley) Guinn
Dec 3, 1857 - May 23, 1918
Bazette News.
Mrs. A. H. Guinn, age fifty-nine years of age, and a highly esteemed
resident of the Independence community passed away at her home last
Thursday morning after a lingering illness.
The deceased was a good woman and was liked by all who knew her. She
leaves to mourn her absence, a companion, six daughters and four
sons and a host of friends. The remains were interred in the
Bazette cemetery
Thursday afternoon. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. I.
Windsor of Kerens and Rev. E. S. Carlton. We extend the bereaved our
heartfelt sympathy.
Notes:
William
Fletcher Brown
Mar 21, 1874 - Jan 28, 1919
Died Near Powell.
W. F. Brown, aged forty-five years, a well known farmer of the
DeArmond community near Powell, died Monday night, and the remains
were interred in the Bazette
cemetery yesterday, Rev. T. E. Lucas officiating. The wife of
the deceased preceded him to the grave just two weeks. The couple
left ten children, five of the being under fifteen years of age.
Notes:
Josie Lee
(Ferrell) Williams-Carpenter) Boone
Jul 28, 1925 - Sep 20, 2015
Josie L. Carpenter Boone. Born on July 28, 1925 in a little
town of Athens, Texas. Lived 90 years of her life at the fullest.
She worked all of her life real hard to take care of her family and
friends. People called her Angel and her nickname was Josie Lee. She
started working on a farm with her dad after her mom died when she
was 9 years old and raised her sister Nadine who was only 16 months
old, along with her 2 brothers. She only went to school until the
5th grade. She then outlived all her immediate family. She married
three times and outlived all of them, John Williams, Dayton
Carpenter, and John Boone. She also outlived her two children, Larry
and Barbara, and her granddaughter Yvette Ivey. As she got older,
she worked in Athens, Texas at the Dairy Queen, then worked in
Corsicana, Texas, then moved to Garland, Texas and retired from Varo
after 28 years. She then moved to Princeton, Texas for 12 years and
finally returned to Garland, Texas. Her hobbies were sewing,
crossword puzzles and traveling. She spoiled all of her
grandchildren and they loved to go to her house because there was
always food there. Josie was also a very Christian person and was
actively involved at church for many, many years and loved God. She
always had a funny sense of humor and always happy. She made people
laugh. She was an unbelievable woman, and took care of a lot of sick
family. There are not enough words to express how great she was. She
will be truly missed. We will always love our mamaw Josie. Preceded
in death by: parents, Sam and Alice Ferrell; brothers, Paul and
Clarence; sister, Nadine Caroll; son, Larry Carpenter; daughter,
Barbara Ivey; husbands, John Williams, Dayton Carpenter, John Boone;
granddaughter, Yvette Ivey. Survived by: grandchildren, Jason, Ron,
and Katie; 8 great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; and
son-in-law, Roy Ivey, Jr. The family will receive friends, Thursday,
September 24, 2015, from 6:00 until 8:00 PM, at the funeral home.
Funeral service will be held, 1:00 PM, Friday, Sparkman/Crane
Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at
Kerens Cemetery, Kerens,
Texas.
Earl Leroy
Rowe
Feb 13, 1924 - Apr 7, 2016
 Earl
Leroy Rowe was born on February 13, 1924 in Ogden, Utah to
Lodasca Williams and Jay Herman Rowe. He was the oldest of
six boys: Jay Rowe, Claude Mills, Ed Mills, David Stouffer,
Clifford Stouffer and Lewis Rowe. His family moved to Bitter
Creek, Wyoming where his step-father, Claude Mills, worked
for the railroad. Since the public school only went to the
8th grade, he moved to Evanston, Wyoming and lived with his
Aunt Mildred Cronin (Point of the Rocks, Wyoming). He
attended Evanston High School from 9th - 12th grades and
graduated on May 22, 1942. Upon graduation, he went to Utah
Agricultural University (aka Utah State University) in
Logan, Utah in 1942. Along with the standard college
curriculum, he joined the Civilian Pilot Training Program
sponsored by the US government to train civilian pilots for
military preparedness. In this program, he became an
aviation cadet. On August 3, 1942, he joined the Navy. The
Navy sent him to Corpus Christi, Texas where he became a
flight instructor on February 29, 1944. He trained pilots
for World War II, which he said was a very dangerous job.
On May 10, 1945 he married Billye Frances Fountain Hayley on
the Naval Air Base at Corpus Christi, Texas. They have five
children: Deborah, Kathleen, Leah, Ellen and Earl Leroy II.
He retired from the Navy in 1947 as a Lieutenant JG. As a
civilian, he tried his hand at the restaurant business with
his mother-in-law. That lasted about 6 months. Next he
opened a lumber business with a partner hauling lumber for
construction, which was successful. But he missed flying and
enlisted in the Naval Reserves in May 1951. He eventually
became the Commanding Officer of an A-4 fighter squadron
based in Norfolk, Virginia. On February 13, 1984, he retired
from the Naval Reserve. The family moved to Oklahoma City,
Oklahoma in 1958 when Earl took a job with the Federal
Aviation Agency. He retired from the FAA in 1978.
The family moved to Vienna, Virginia in 1962 and Earl worked
for the FAA in Washington, DC.
In 1966, the family moved back to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
and he returned to work with the FAA as the flight
inspection field office chief. He oversaw the design and
installation of the navigation aides in the instrument
landing systems when Dallas/Fort Worth airport was built.
Billye and Earl divorced in 1973. He married Oveta Jean
Trussell Ford in June 1978. They moved to Chile that year to
work for the United Nations in the International Civilian
Aviation Organization. He set up radio navigation and
instrument landing systems for flight safety in several
countries.
During the retirement years, Jean and Earl bought a fifth
wheel trailer and traveled to visit family and friends. He
loved visiting and traveling to San Antonio and Las Vegas to
see his brother, Lewis Rowe. They also bought a 1958 Bonanza
airplane to travel. Earl was a talented contractor and
handyman. In 1985 he started building a house on Cedar Creek
Lake in Malakoff, Texas where they enjoyed fishing and golf.
After moving from the Lake house in 1988, they spent the
rest of the time living in Oklahoma City on Lakepoint Dr. He
spent time buying properties in need of repair, fixing them
and renting them. After Jean passed away in July 2008, he
started thinking about moving to Dallas to be near Ellen's
family. So in December 2008 he moved in to Frisco Lakes in
Frisco, Texas. He was active in the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints. Earl served five 6-month missions at
the Bishop's storehouse in Carrollton. . He also attended
the LDS Dallas Temple weekly.On April 15, 2013, Ellen and
Earl visited Nauvoo, Illinois where his ancestors started
the long, arduous trek from Nauvoo to Utah during the winter
of 1846.
He is survived by:
Deborah Edmonds and her husband Carl of Vacaville,
California
Kathleen Gammell of St. George, Utah
Leah O'Keefe and her husband William of St. George Utah
Ellen Sigety and her husband John of Highland Village, Texas
Earl Leroy Rowe II and his wife Jill of Draper, Utah
Dan Ford of Madison, Alabama
Vivian Geeslin and her husband James of McKinney, Texas
Billye Rowe, mother of his five of children
Preceded in Death:
Ovita Jean Trussell Rowe, wife
Patty Mae Ford, step daughter
Two grandchildren, Jason Gammell and Jenna Sigety |
Notes:
- OBITUARY FOR EARL LEROY ROWE Deceased on Apr 7, 2016
Baylor Heart Hospital of Plano, Texas
- Stonebriar Funeral Home, Frisco, Texas - Submitted by
Diane Richards
- (Ed, add U. S. Navy 1945-1947 Naval reserve 1951 -1984)
- Rose Hill
Cemetery, Blooming Grove, Navarro Co., TX
Frederic E. �Fred� Craig
Jun 27, 1897 - May 9, 1923
HUGHES-MCKIE WELL STILL BURNING�FOURTEEN KNOWN DEAD
THOUSANDS VISITED LOCATION OF GURNING WELL�CROWDS THRONGED THROUGH
MORGUE VIEWING BODIES
Like an active volcano in eruption, belching forth terrific flames
of burning fire constantly fed by the constant flow of oil and gas,
the Hughes-McKie well in holocaust which has cost at least 14 men
their lives, continues to gush forth its awful blaze at 3 o'clock
today.
For twenty-four solid hours flames ranging from 30 feet to 150 feet
have leaped high in the air in its spectacular capers. Red streaks
of flame ascend as from a mighty nozzle, and disappear in the form
of huge black clouds of smoke, which drift with the wind in a
surging blast.
The wind switched from the southward during the night and the mighty
smokestack releases its flow in the direction of Powell, leaving
darkened elements in its wake.
Thousands hurried frantically to the fields during last night to
witness the spectacular fire-works.
The well being situated on the east bank of the creek is surrounded
by tall timber. A rough one-way traffic road forming a winding snake
trail for two miles is the only means of vehicle access to the
scene. The roads were choked with vehicle traffic within a short
time after the fire started. This kept up all night.
The well has been fenced off and traffic barred on the narrow road
to give the men full right of way in getting boilers to the
location.
Every company owning equipment in the Powell fields has tendered the
use of all available boilers and other equipment to extinguish the
flame.
Men are working like Trojans to get the equipment in place. It will
be necessary to use fire foam and steam from a dozen boilers.
The burned bodies of at least six men remain in the fire zone
according to DeWitt Watkins, who is working at the well today. He
stated to a reporter of the Sun this morning that five bodies could
be seen near the well, and there was another one missing. He also
stated he believed that one or two spectators perished.
Jim Ball foreman in charge of the work believes the final death toll
will reach 18.
Mr. Hughes accompanied by J. S. Banks, his attorney, are at the well
this afternoon checking up on the number of dead and missing.
Hundreds of spectators thronged in and out and lingered about the
Sutherland Undertaking establishment all day Thursday eager to catch
a glimpse of the charred bodies of a number of the working crew
which perished in the big blaze Wednesday afternoon when the Hughes-McKie
No. 1 well ignited.
Five of the bodies, charred and disfigured by the flames almost
beyond recognition, were brought to the morgue early last night.
They have been identified as follows:
W.A. PHILLIPS, Kerens.
W. A. HICKS, Wortham.
JACK COOPER, Corsicana.
FRED CRAIG, Roane.
L. P. SHEEK, Dallas.
The bodies of Travis Owen and Emmett Bird, both of Kerens, were
brought from the Physicians and Surgeons hospital later in the
night, Owen died at 7 o'clock and Bird died at 11:05 o'clock. These
two men were dragged from the fire zone and hurried to Corsicana.
Each lived only a few hours.
C. B. Keever, J. E. Keever, J. R. Ferris and Jesse Blair from the
Keever Undertaking company at Ennis arrived early last night to
assist in preparing the bodies for burial.
The bodies of S. P. Allen, field foreman; E. C. Cooper, driller;
James Phillips, L. C. Coop, M. O. Turner, have not been recovered.
Max Meisner and Charlie Walker are believed to have perished. The
charred remains of four can be seen near the well. They cannot be
recovered on account of the intensity of the heat.
Funerals This Afternoon.
Funerals for four of the victims of yesterday�s terrible oil field
holocaust took place this afternoon. The bodies of W. A. (Ban)
Phillips and Travis Owen were taken to Rural Shade were both were
raised; Emmett Byrd was interred in Eureka, his former home, and
Fred Craig was laid to rest at Chatfield, which was his childhood
home.
The ladies of Corsicana and the Chamber of Commerce covered each of
the caskets with magnificent flowers.
The remains of L. C. Sheek were sent to Dallas this afternoon and
the body of W. A. Hicks will be sent to Wortham tomorrow.
The roustabout crew of 20 men working in the vicinity of the well
escaped. Several teamsters and tank men were passing in and about
the premises and rushed to the aid of the burning men, but the blaze
had swept the bottom before they could be reached.
A negro teamster succeeded in loosening his team from the material
wagon and escaped with them. The wagon and its contents were
consumed.
Tragic Spectacle.
The scene about the well presented a sad and tragic spectacle when
the monstrous explosion came. Both the day and the night crew
consisting of twelve men had just started work a short while before.
Several bystanders near the well escaped with their lives by
running. It is believed that more dead bodies are in the burned area
in addition to the known dead.
Men ran in every direction in a frenzy and fell when overcome.
Jimmy Meeks, oil field scout for the Humble Oil & Refining Company;
E. W. Quinlin, scout for the Simms Oil Company; Ellis Hammel,
drilling contractor; and DeWitt Watkins, members of the roustabout
crew, did heroic work in attempting to save the men from their awful
death.
Heroic Rescue Work.
Bravely defying all danger at the risk of their own lives rushed
headlong to the burning prostrate forms of the groaning men in death
agonies in answer to their piteous cries for help and succeeded in
bringing them out. The men breathed their last as they were being
carried out of the gas, smoke and fire.
Jim Ball escaped with B. B. Simmonds, N. M. Dunman and Dick Pyle. As
they made their exit from the timber, Ball turned back to assist
Owen. He succeeded in getting him into the open but too late to save
his life. Charlie Lewis of Corsicana ran to the assistance of Bird.
Piteous cries for water went up from the two dying men as the
ambulance brought them to the hospital.
Meeks, Quinlan, Hammel and Watkins returned towards the well for the
other perishing men, but were unable to reach them. Their bodies had
been practically reduced to ashes in the blaze which had gained
headway. Waste oil in the bottom covering almost an acre upon which
large trees saturated with oil had become enveloped in the frenzied
inferno.
Quinlan is a world war hero. A native of New York State, he served
in the French Army during the early days of the war. Later he served
with the Canadian forces.
Quinlan is the possessor of several war medals. He was awarded the
Medalto Militaire; the Croix Guerre, and while in the British he
service he was the first American to be awarded the Victoria Cross.
He received several hard jolts in the war, in the rescue work
Wednesday the fumes and smoke temporarily almost overcame him.
Phone Girls Busy.
Shortly after three o'clock a man called the Johnson Drug Store from
the Commercial Hotel and communicated the first news that reached
Corsicana of the terrible disaster. The caller at the same time told
Miss Valsey Hubbard, the operator, that he wanted every doctor
available to go to the scene of the McKie well. The call was
immediately referred to the chief operator. She rang the Corsicana
Surgical and Medical clinic and asked that the doctors be sent. The
hospital and every drug store in town were called to assist in every
possible way. The undertaking parlors soon dispatched ambulances
toward the fire. Emergency telephone calls from Powell, Kerens and
Corsicana came pouring into the central office running as high as
2,400 calls per hour.
Frantic calls from various individuals were made in effort to locate
the families of the dead and injured men.
Public memorial services will be held at the gospel tent at 7:45
o'clock Friday evening under the auspices of the Chamber of
Commerce. Rev. Alonzo Monk, Jr., will withhold his regular revival
services until after the memorial ceremonies.
The Chamber of Commerce today sent floral offerings to the families
of the deceased. A suitable medal will be provided for the family of
each man by the commercial organization in commemoration of their
brave efforts towards the development of the oil resources of the
county.
Among the members of the roustabout crew escaping are L. W. Wilkitz,
E. W. Arnett, Whyne Short, J. W. Crosby, Jas. A. McDaniels, J. A.
Story, Jim Ball, Ned Dumas, and Johnnie Kennon. The names of the
other men have not been learned.
These men had been gathered up from various leases in the Mexia
district and brought to assist in taking care of the well. The
working record and the names of the men were in Mr. Allen�s pocket,
and none of the surviving members are able to give the names of all
the men.
Superintendent Walker of the city schools of Henrietta, and wife,
father and mother of Mrs. S. P. Allen, and father of Charlie Walker,
arrived in Corsicana early today.
Station Agent Wyatt and daughters of Plano, friends of the Walker
family are also here.
Mr. Allen�s mother, and Miss Walker of Denton are also here. Miss
Walker is a teacher in the Denton College of Industrial Arts. She is
a sister of Mrs. Allen.
Notes:
---
MEMORIAL SERVICES FOR MEN WHO LOST LIVES IN OIL FIRE
Memorial services in honor of the oil field workers who lost
their lived in the big blaze at the Hughes-McKie well Wednesday
will be held at the gospel tent, Eleventh street and Seventh
avenue at 7:45 o'clock Friday evening.
The ceremonies will be conducted under the auspices of the
Chamber of Commerce. Mayor J. S. Eubank and members of the city
administration, presidents of the Rotary, Lions, Civic,
Advertising clubs, the Retail Merchants� Association will occupy
a place on the rostrum.
Every minister in town will take part in the program.
The ministers will conduct a prayer service. Hugh L. Hiett will
sing.
Hon. Luther A. Johnson will make the address of condolence.
Other speakers will take part.
Notes:
---
FUNERAL SUNDAY FOR REMAINING OIL FIRE VICTIMS
MEN WHO LOST LIVES IN BIG OIL FIELD FIRE WILL BE BURIED HERE
Funeral services for S. P. Allen, Charles Walker, Jim
Phillips, C. M. Cooper, E. C. Cooper and L. C. Cook, fire
victims of the burning Hughes-McKie oil well, will be held
at the First Methodist Church at 2:30 o'clock Sunday
afternoon, according to announcement made today by W. S.
Banks, attorney for the J. K. Hughes Development Company.
Rev. Alonzo Monk, Jr., pastor of the church assisted by Rev.
C. G. Vineer, pastor of the Church of Christ, will conduct
the services.
The remains of the six bodies will be interred in one casket
in a specially provided lot in Oakwood cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Hon. Luther A. Johnson, Mayor J.
S. Eubank, R. J. Jackson, Sam J. Jackson, John C. Calhoun,
R. J. Graves, J. L. Halbert and W. H. Hastings.
The smouldering remains of the six men were recovered from
the fire area of the ill-fated Hughes-McKie well several
days after it caught fire May 9. They have been held at the
Sutherland Undertaking Parlors pending the possible recovery
of another body believed to have been undiscovered in the
debris.
Seven of the perish crew were recovered from the fire
shortly after the blaze started. Each were positively
identified, and have been buried.
Mr. Banks stated today that the six remaining bodies had
been sufficiently identified as to justify giving out the
name of each. He stated the official casualty list of the J.
K. Hughes Development company places the number of known
dead and accounted for at 13. The list is as follows:
S. P. Allen, L. C. Cook, M. O. Turner, Charles Walker,
Travis Owens, W. M. (Ban) Phillips, Jim Phillips, L. P.
Sheek, W. A. Hicks, C. M. (Jack) Cooper, E. C. Cooper,
Emmett G. Byrd, and Fred E. Craig.
One report carried the name of Max Meisner as among the dead
and missing. Mr. Banks stated today that communication had
been established with Mr. Meisner, and the Hughes company is
certain he escaped injury. The company had the fire area
thoroughly scorched by men clad in asbestos clothing, and no
other body was found. Mr. Banks stated the company feels
certain that the bodies of all men who perished in the fire
has been found.
The J. K. Hughes Development Company has planned to erect a
suitable monument over the grave of the six men to be buried
in Oakwood cemetery in remembrance of the total number of
its employees losing their lives in the big fire.
A change of plans for extinguishing the fire at the burning
well late yesterday appears to have been extended the time
before the blaze is stopped. W. H. McClintock has assembled
a rig of his own making and patent, which he is confident
will put out the fire when brought into play, but so far the
apparatus has not been applied. Work was suspended at the
well at 5 o'clock Friday, and nothing was done during the
night. A different apparatus containing a T-joint and valve
gear model has been completed, and efforts are being
directed towards apply it before the McClintock machine is
used.
Rain last night rendered the creek bottoms and the roads
leading to the field in a very muddy condition.
Transportation out from town was slow early today, which
operated to cause some delay in getting work under way
Saturday morning.
Although the roads were very slippery, teams and heavy
trucks were on the road with tons of materials for the
various new locations for drillings.
A meeting of the stockholders of the Cor-Tex Deep Well
Company was held at the well just south of town at 3 o'clock
this afternoon. Plans for resuming operations at the test
were thoroughly gone over. Several interested individuals
attended the meeting and reports are that much enthusiasm is
evidenced over the proposed new operations there.
The test south of Blooming Grove to be put down by Dr.
Stubbs and Dunbar spudded in at 4 o'clock. Several went out
from Corsicana to see the bit take its first plunge into the
surface. A local photographer was present to take a view of
the rig and the crowds assembled to see the new test stared.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Saturday, May 19, 1923
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- He is listed on the monument in
Oakwood but
death certificate says buried in Chatfield cemetery (has
a headstone at
New Chatfield Cemetery)
- h/o Willie Mae (Fluker) Craig married May 7, 1921
s/o Archie Gather Craig and Mattie Rebecca (Goggins)
Craig buried in Restland Memorial Park, Dallas, Tx.
Mary Jane
(Tucker) Covington
Jul 6, 1877 - Mar 5, 1917
Died Near Jester.
Mrs. Mary J. Covington, wife of Lige Covington of
Jester, and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Tucker of
Cook�s School House, aged 42 years, died near Jester
Monday and the remains were interred at the Angus
cemetery yesterday. Besides her husband and parents the
deceased is survived by four children and several
brothers and sisters.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Wednesday, Mar 7, 1917
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- w/o Elias Hershel Covington; d/o John Fletcher
Tucker buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery and Sarah (Hassler)
Tucker buried in Campbell Elrod Cemetery
- Buried at the
Younger Cemetery, Silver City, Navarro Co., TX
Hal Flowers Parker
Aug 24, 1891 - Jan 14, 1918
PURDON MAN KILLED IN WRECK.
Remains Will Be Brought Home for Interment Tomorrow.
Of Those killed and injured in the terrible accident
on the Houston and Texas Central railroad early
Monday morning at Hammond, three were known here,
two of the number living near Purdon.
Al Parker, who was killed, lived at Purdon and had
recently gone to Orange to work in the government
ship yards. His wife, who is the daughter of G. W.
Tickle of Purdon, received a letter from him last
Friday telling her to get ready to join him at
Orange and he would send for her in a few days. It
is presumed that he had changed his mind and was
coming for her when he met his death. The deceased
was about twenty-five years of age and was highly
esteemed as an industrious and worthy young man. His
parents are both dead and his young wife is the only
relative the deceased had about Purdon. The remains
are expected here tonight and will be interred at
Purdon tomorrow.
John Ballentine, a well known farmer of Purdon
community, is among the seriously injured. A
telegram to his family at Purdon this morning from
the railroad hospital said that he was seriously
injured. Mr. Ballentine lived for many years near
Blooming Grove and removed to the Purdon community a
year ago. He had been to Georgia to see his
venerable mother whom he had not seen in twenty
years and was en route home from that trip when the
accident occurred.
Lee Blocker, who was killed, and who traveled for a
Houston firm, was well known here. He made his
headquarters at one time at the Hotel Main and later
he and his wife roomed with Mrs. Bright at the
corner of Collin and Twelfth streets. The wife left
here some months ago and had been in Houston. Mr.
Blocker was here Friday night and went to Mrs.
Bright�s and finding that Mrs. Bright had closed her
house to spend some time with her daughter, Mrs.
Fox, he telephoned her, saying he would go to the
hotel for the night, but that he and his wife might
want to rent rooms from her soon in which to do
light housekeeping. The deceased was about forty
years of age and leaves his wife and two children, a
little girl of twelve years and a baby two weeks
old. It is probable that Mr. Blocker is the man who
Contracter Martinsen of the State Home saw get on
the train here Friday night and again at Bryan the
night of the fatal accident. Mr. Martinsen says he
had frequently seen the man on the streets here, but
did not know his name and says that he saw him go
into the chair car at Bryan.
Dilligent inquiries among the colored people failed
to throw any light on the negro Jim Wilson, reported
injured. Some knew of a colored man by that name who
was a laborer about town, but no one knew where he
is, or whether he had gone anywhere on a train, or
at least that his people did not know where he is.
Another colored man, or rather a young fellow near
grown, names Jackson, is said to have come home
yesterday with a sprained ankle, and that he
reported that he was on the wrecked train. None of
the colored people with whom the reporter talked
however, knew where he lived.
Notes:
---
REMAINS ARRIVED TODAY
Man Badly Injured in Wreck Also Arrives From
Houston
The remains of the late Hal Parker, who was
killed in the wreck on the Houston and Texas
Central railway Sunday night, reached here from
Houston this morning and were taken to Purdon,
where interment took place this afternoon.
The young man was killed instantly in the wreck,
his skull being crushed either by something
falling on him or his head striking against the
engine with which the coach collided, and
against which he was thrown. The body was also
badly scalded by steam and hot water.
The deceased was reared near Kerens, and his
father died at Trinidad only a few months ago.
John Ballantine of Purdon, who was badly burned
about the face and on one of his hands, came in
on the train with the body of young Parker this
morning. Mr. Ballantine was accompanied home by
his son, R. L. Ballantine, of Purdon, who went
to his father as soon as news of the accident
reached him. Mr. Ballentine told a Sun
representative this morning that nothing but his
strength saved him from death. He was seated,
within two seats of the rear end of the chair
car when the accident occurred, and it was the
front end of the chair car that plunged against
the engine of the freight train that was on the
siding waiting for the passenger train to go by.
Mr. Ballantine was pinned between two seats and
as the steam began pouring in on him, with
almost superhuman strength he pulled the two
seats from their fastenings, seized a broken
piece of iron near him, broke out a window and
stuck his head through it to get fresh air. At
this juncture two men seized him and drew him
through the window. His exertions and the steam
then overcame him, and the first thing he knew
afterward was that he was lying on the ground in
a pool of water. The last thing he remembered
was a lady throwing a cover of some sort over
him. He was taken soon afterwards along with the
other injured to the railroad hospital in
Houston, where he says the railroad people did
all that was in human power for him and all the
other injured.
Mr. Ballentine is badly blistered across the
upper part of his face, his nose being one solid
blister, and his eyes are badly blood-shot. He
is very sore about the chest and does not know
whether that is due to the jar received or his
hard efforts to extricate himself.
Young Parker got on the train at Orange, and as
he knew Mr. Ballantine at Purdon, took a seat
with him in the rear end of the chair car and
remained with him till only a short time before
the accident, when he got up and went near the
front end of the coach, where most of the
fatalities occurred.
Mr. Ballentine reports that Mrs. Edgar Martin of
Mexia, who was injured in the accident, died
just as he was leaving the hospital yesterday
afternoon. Mrs. Martin�s baby was killed and her
husband badly hurt, but he was able to be up
yesterday afternoon at the time of his wife�s
death.
Notes:
Elias Hershel �Bud� Covington
Dec 17, 1859 - Sep 7, 1921
Died At Jester.
Bud Coving, age 70 years, died at Jester
Wednesday night, and the remains were
interred in the Younger cemetery yesterday.
Deceased is survived by his wife and several
children.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Friday, Sep 9, 1921
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
-
Younger Cemetery, Silver City,
Navarro Co., TX
- 1st wife Mary (Martin) Covington
2nd wife Mary Jane (Tucker) Covington
3rd wife Alice Elizabeth (Brock)
Hanks-Covington buried in Oakwood
cemetery s/o Elias Covington and Mary A.
(Love) Covington
Earl
Cleveland Stone
Mar 15, 1917 - Jun 10, 1918
Died in Waco Monday.
The 18-months old son of Mr. and Mrs. E.
C. Stone of Waco, but formerly of this
county, died in Waco Monday and the
remains were brought here and buried in
the
Providence cemetery near Navarro.
Notes:
Robert
H. Jeffers
Dec 8, 1883 - Oct 14, 1918
Remains Came Today
The remains of the late Robert Jeffers, son of Mr. and Mrs. I.
T. Jeffers who died in El Paso some days ago, reached here today
and the funeral will take place tomorrow afternoon at 1 o'clock
at the family home with interment in
Provident Cemetery,
seven miles southeast of town, Rev. C. H. Booth officiating. The
deceased was thirty-five years old and is survived by a little
son five years old, his parents and these brothers and sisters;
Mrs. Chas. Faulk, Lawton, Okla.; W. I. Jeffers, Duncan, Okla.;
Allen Jeffers, San Antonio; Mrs. Harry Clowe, Rural Shade; Will
Jeffers, Clowe Jeffers, Chas. Jeffers and Mrs. Lena Crouch of
Corsicana.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Friday, Oct 18, 1918
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- s/o Isaac Thomas Jeffers & Mary Katherine �Mollie�
(Sheets) Jeffers buried in Oakwood cemetery, Corsicana, Tx.
Mack
M. A. Berry
Jul 22, 1863 - Aug 2, 1919
M. A. BERRY DEAD.
Remains Interred at Providence Cemetery Yesterday.
The remains of the late M. S. Berry, who died at R. D.
Caton�s residence in Northeast Corsicana at 11 o'clock
Saturday, were interred in the
cemetery at
Providence at 4 o'clock yesterday.
The deceased was 56 years and 10 days old. His wife and
children are all dead. He is survived by a brother and a
brother-in-law, T. L. Hill, who resides near Eureka.
The Rev. McCuiston officiated at the funeral services.
Notes:
Georgia D.
(Mothershed) Ellington
May 14, 1869 - Jan 9, 1919
Died Here This Morning.
Mrs. Georgia D. Ellington, aged 50 years, wife of C. H.
Ellington, died at 6 o'clock this morning at the family
home, 1509 West Sixth Avenue, after a long illness from
an internal cancer. The deceased is survived by her
husband and three grown children. The remains will be
interred in the
Provident
cemetery near Eureka tomorrow afternoon at 1
o'clock.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Thursday, Jan 9, 1919
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- w/o Charles H. �Charlie� Ellington; d/o T. B. Mothershed
& Josephine (Simpson) Mothershed per
death certificate
B. F. Blankenship
abt. 1853 - Dec. 14, 1919
Died Near Mildred.
B. F. Blankenship, aged 66 years died near Mildred
last night and the remains will be interred in the
Providence cemetery tomorrow. The deceased is
survived by his wife and several children.
Notes:
Seaborn Harold
Powell
Jan 13, 1917 - Aug 7, 1919
LITTLE BOY DIED.
Funeral Services for Seburn Harold Powell This
Afternoon.
Seburn Harold Powell, the little son of Mr. and
Mrs. Harold Powell, died at 12:20 last night at
the family residence, 416 East 2nd Avenue. The
deceased was two years and 23 days old.
The funeral services will be held at 5:30 this
afternoon from the family residence, with
interment in
Oakwood
cemetery. Rev. Cullom H. Booth, pastor of
the First Methodist Church will officiate.
Notes:
J. Lee Lonsford
Jan 1, 1860 - Jul 6, 1919
GOOD CITIZEN DIED SUDDENLY.
Funeral Was Largely Attended This Afternoon.
J. L. Lonsford, for many years a well known
citizen of Corsicana, died suddenly at his
home, 1004 South Seventeenth street,
yesterday morning at 5 o'clock. He was on
the streets Saturday in apparently good
health, and retired that night feeling well.
A few moments before his death he woke up
suffering with his heart and a physician was
summoned by he died in a few minutes.
The deceased was 59 years, 6 months and 5
days old at the time of his death, and is
survived by his wife and one son. The
deceased was a man of strong convictions and
manly impulses, and stood for all that was
good to his community. He had long been
active and zealous member of the Methodist
church and he will be missed as a good
citizen and faithful husband and father and
a true friend. The funeral took place this
afternoon at 5 o'clock from the home with
interment in
Oakwood. Rev. Pat Leach, pastor of the
Methodist church at Kerens, and Rev. R. A.
Crosby of the Eleventh avenue Methodist
church, performed the last sad rites, and J.
H. Pugh, Lawrence Treadwell, W. M. Huggins,
Wiley Smith, Chas. Borg and R. Mitchell
acted as pallbearers. Many friends were
present and there were many beautiful floral
offerings.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Monday, Jul 7, 1919
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- h/o Susan Virginia Ella (Thomas)
Lonsford married Mar 15, 1895; s/o W. L. Lonsford
& Ruth (Nicholson) Lonsford
per death certificate
Susan Virginia Ella (Thomas) Lonsford
Jan 14, 1862 - Mar 10, 1924
Mrs. Lonsford Died Monday Afternoon.
Mrs. Susan V. E. Lonsford, widow of the
late Lee Lonsford, died at her home,
1004 South Seventeenth street, at 5
o'clock yesterday afternoon, after a
long illness, and the remains were
interred in
Oakwood this afternoon at 3 o'clock,
with Rev. Ilion T. Jones officiating,
and Geo. Kuykendall, W. C. Ralston, J.
H. Bryant, John Cardwell, Morgan
Holloway and Judge H. B. Daviss acting
as pallbearers . There was a good
attendance, and many pretty floral
offerings. The deceased was 62 years of
age and had lived in Corsicana many
years.
Notes:
Mary Dee (Anderson) McAfee
Aug 6, 1893 - Jan 8, 1919
Mary Dee Mcafee with
children, Milton Anderson McAfee &
Marie McAfee. c. 1918 Photo not part
of obituary Funeral Took
Place This Afternoon.
The funeral of the late Mrs. Mary D.
McAfee, wife of Terry McAfee, took
place from the Sutherland
Undertaking Parlors at 3 o'clock
this afternoon, and was largely
attended and there were many
beautiful floral offerings. Rev. C.
H. Booth officiated and Grover
Jennings, Cecil Foster, Sterling
Hornbeck, Pierce Horger, Robt.
Garrett and Preston McKinney acted
as pallbearers.
Notes:
INFANT DAUGHTER Metcalf
B&D Jan 29, 1919
Infant Died Here
The infant of A. S. Metcalf died
at the family home, 216 North
Eleventh Street last night, and
the remains were interred in
Oakwood this afternoon.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Wednesday, Jan 29, 1919
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- d/o Albert Sidney
Metcalf and Mattie D.
(Roberts) Metcalf; Alberts's
first wife is Augusta
(Smith) Metcalf, she died
Dec 29, 1915
James �Jim� Henry Lawson
Feb 20, 1907 - Jan 11, 1919
Died at P. and S. Hospital
James Lawson, the
11-year-old son of M.
Lawson, died at the P. and
S. Hospital late Saturday
afternoon and the remains
were interred in
Oakwood today.
Notes:
Mary Virginia (Cheney)
Welch
Feb 23, 1867 - Jan 10,
1948
FUNERAL SERVICES FOR
MRS. J. W. WELCH SUNDAY
AFTERNOON
Mrs. J. W. Welch,
pioneer Corsicana
resident, died at the
home of her son, J.
Preston Welch, city
secretary, 1516
Maplewood, early
Saturday morning,
following an illness of
several years.
Funeral services will be
held from the McCammon
chapel Sunday afternoon
at 3 o'clock with
interment in
Oakwood cemetery.
The rites will be
conducted by Dr. Jared
I. Cartlidge, pastor of
the First Baptist
church, of which Mrs.
Welch was a long-time
member.
Native of Newborn, Ga.,
the daughter of the late
Mr. and Mrs. J. N.
Cheney, Mrs. Welch came
to Corsicana when 18
years of age.
Surviving are her son, a
brother, J. Owen Cheney,
Navarro; a niece, Mrs.
Dorothy Sweatman,
Corsicana teache, who
was reared by Mrs.
Welch, a number of other
nieces and nephews and
other relatives.
Pallbearers will be
Byron Harwell, L. C.
Cook, Will Taylor, C. C.
McClung, R. R. Cocke,
Van Cheney and Dick
Cheney.
Notes:
--
RITES HELD SUNDAY
FOR MRS. J. W.
WELCH; BURIAL IN
OAKWOOD
Funeral services for
Mrs. J. W. Welch,
pioneer Corsicana
resident, who died
at the home of her
son, J. Preston
Welch, city
secretary, 1516
Maplewood, early
Saturday morning,
were held Sunday
afternoon at 3
o'clock from the
McCammon chapel. The
rites were conducted
by Dr. Jared I.
Cartlidge, pastor of
the First Baptist
church of which she
has been a long-time
member. Burial was
in
Oakwood cemetery.
Native of Georgia,
Mrs. Welch came to
Corsicana when 18
years of age with
her parents, the
late Dr. and Mrs. J.
N. Cheney.
Surviving are her
son, a brother, J.
Owen Cheney,
Navarro; a niece,
Miss Dorothy
Sweatmon, Corsicana
teacher, who was
reared by Mrs.
Welch, and a number
of other relatives.
Pallbearers were
Byron Harwell, L. C.
Cook, Will Taylor,
C. C. McClung, R. R.
Cocke, Van Cheney
and Dick Cheney.
Notes:
Lucile Orange
Feb 9, 1911 -
Aug 27, 1919
Death of Little
Girl.
Lucile Orange,
the 7 year-old
daughter of A.
L. Orange, who
lives in the
Thorp addition,
died last night
and the remains
were interred in
the
Oakwood cemetery
this afternoon.
Rev. R. A.
Crosby
officiated and
the members of
the little
girl�s Sunday
School class of
the Eleventh
Avenue Methodist
Church acted as
pallbearers. The
little girl fell
from a tree some
two or three
weeks ago and
hurt her back
and it is
thought that the
injury then
received
developed a
fever that
finally ended
her life.
Notes:
Ellen �Ella�
(Hays)
Patton-Harle
Jan 23, 1851
- Feb 7,
1919
Remains
Interred
Today.
The remains
of the late
Mrs. R. B.
Harle were
laid to rest
in
Oakwood
at 3 o'clock
this
afternoon,
the funeral
taking place
from the
home of P.
P. Headrick,
South
Eighteenth
Street and
Twelfth
Avenue. The
pall bearers
were B. H.
Woods, Sam
M. Kerr, T.
P. Kerr, A.
J. Wareing,
N. L. Benson
and Tom
Redden, and
a large
number
attended the
last sad
rites. In
addition to
the
relatives
mentioned in
the Sun
Yesterday,
the deceased
is survived
by one
brother,
Cade Hayes,
a former
resident
here, but
now of
Dallas.
Notes:
------
Venerable Lady Dead
Mrs. R. B. Harle, for many years a resident of
Corsicana, aged 63 years, died at the P. and S.
hospital last night, and the funeral will take
place tomorrow afternoon, with interment in
Oakwood. The deceased is survived by three grown
children, Mrs. Mortie Headrick of Corsicana;
Earl Harle of Cleburne; and Clyde Harle who is a
traveling salesman. The deceased was a half
sister of the late Mrs. Joel A. Kerr, and an
aunt of Messrs. Mortie, A. H. and Ray Kerr. The
deceased had many friends among the elder
residents of Corsicana, and was highly esteemed
by all who knew her. The funeral will be held
tomorrow at 2 p.m.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun - Friday, Feb 7, 1919
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- 1st husband William G. Patton married Feb. 12, 1868
& 2nd husband Robert Baldwin Harle married Mar. 4, 1878;
d/o Thomas Hays
Emilie/Amelia
(Bunert)
Frey
Oct 27,
1858 -
Nov 17,
1945
Mrs. E.
Frey
Died
Saturday
Night;
Funeral
Sunday
Mrs. E.
Frey,
aged 81
years,
died at
the
family
home,
1305
East
Seventh
avenue
Saturday
night at
9
o'clock.
Funeral
services
were
held
Sunday
afternoon
at 4
o'clock
from the
McCammon
Funeral
Chapel.
Burial
was in
Oakwood
cemetery.
The
rites
were
conducted
by Rev.
Robert
Kennaugh,
rector
of St.
John�s
Episcopal
church.
Mrs.
Frey had
resided
in
Corsicana
most of
her
life.
Surviving
are a
son,
Albert
W. Frey,
Corsicana;
a
sister,
Mrs.
Bertha
Bunert,
Corsicana,
and six
grandchildren.
Pallbearers
were W.
V.
Mowlam,
Everett
Hall,
Sam
Crain,
W. P.
McCammon,
H. D.
Johnson,
Pitt
Franklin,
H. T.
Jackson,
and F.
W.
Smith.
Mrs.
Frey was
a native
of
Toledo,
Ohio,
and came
to
Corsicana
in 1878.
She was
married
to the
late
Emil
Frey in
1883.
Notes:
Emil
Frey
Jan
24,
1856
-
Mar
22,
1935
EMIL
FREY
DIED
HOME
ON
FRIDAY;
FUNERAL
SUNDAY
VETERAN
PHOTOGRAPHER
HAS
BEEN
RESIDENT
CITY
HALF
CENTURY
Emil
Frey,
aged
79
years,
resident
of
Corsicana
for
53
years,
retired
photographer
and
well-known
violinist,
died
at
his
home,
1304
East
Seventh
avenue
Friday
morning
at 3
o'clock.
The
rites
will
be
held
from
the
family
home
Sunday
afternoon
at 3
o'clock
with
burial
in
Oakwood
cemetery.
The
services
will
be
conducted
by
Rev.
H.
J.
Ellis,
rector
of
St.
John�s
Episcopal
church.
Mr.
Frey
had
been
in
the
photography
business
for
47
years
prior
to
his
retirement
and
for
many
years
conducted
the
leading
business
of
his
profession
in
this
section
of
the
country.
Surviving
are
his
wife,
a
son,
Albert
Frey,
Corsicana,
and
five
grandchildren.
The
rites
will
be
directed
by
the
Sutherland-McCammon
Funeral
Home.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Friday, Mar 22, 1935
- Submitted by Diane Richards
- Born in Germany h/o Emilie/Amelia (Bunert) Frey married Mar. 30, 1883 s/o Emil Frey per death certificate
- (Ed, I have seen this guy�s name on so many of the old photos of Corsicana and I bet you have some�the 3rd article tells more about his photos�he was a photographer, violinist and also a artist)
--
EMIL FREY TO BE BURIED SUNDAY IN OAKWOOD CEMETERY
PROMINENT RETIRED PHOTOGRAPHER AND MUSICIAN DIED EARLY FRIDAY
Funeral rites for Emil Frey, aged 79 years, resident of Corsicana for 35 years, retired photographer and well known musician, who died at his home 1304 East Seventh avenue, Friday morning at 3 o'clock, will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock from the family home with burial in Oakwood cemetery. The rites will be conducted by Rev. H. J. Ellis, rector of St. John�s Episcopal church. Mr. Frey formerly was one of the best known photographers in this section and was a photographer 47 years prior to his retirement several years ago.
Surviving are his wife, a son, Albert Frey, Corsicana, and five grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be S. M. Kerr, A. B. Douglas, J. Y. Stewart, A. W. Levermann, Sam Crane, W. P. McCammon, Wm. V. Mowlam and Bert Nichol.
The funeral will be directed by the Sutherland-McCammon Funeral Home.
Notes:
--
Passing of E. Frey Brings Interesting History to Light
It will, no doubt, be of interest to the friends and acquaintances of Mr. Emil Frey, who passed away early Friday morning and was laid to rest Sunday afternoon in Oakwood cemetery, to know something of his 59 years spent in Corsicana.
Mr. Frey was born in Mainz, Germany, January 23, 1856, coming to America when only 15 years old, and to Corsicana five years later, in 1876.
He took out his final naturalization papers in 1887, sworn to before Judge Rufus Hardy and H. P. West, Sam A. Frost being the judge of the Thirteenth district at that time.
He, like his father before him, was a finished musician. He organized the first string band and brass band in Corsicana, and taught a large class of pupils.
At this time, being an artist with pencil and brush as well as in music, he took up the creation of pictures as a hobby, which led to photography, his life work from which he retired in 1924.
Pioneer in Photography.
During these 48 years, he saw photography advance from the time that he made his own materials for tintypes and Daguerteotypes, to the production of the motion pictures.
On March 28, 1854, he married Miss Amelia Bunert, who survives him. He is also survived by a son, Albert Frey of this city, three grandsons, Edward Kuesel and Herbert Albert Frey of Corsicana, and Emil Frey of Livengood, Alaska; two granddaughters, Imogene Frey, Corsicana and Marjorie Frey, Chicago, and a niece, Mrs. H. Bauer of Kansas City.
It was Mr. Frey�s request that a violin solo be played at his funeral, so Mrs. Finis Farr was asked to play. She chose Kreisler�s �Old Refrain,� as Mr. Frey, in writing her a letter after hearing her play over the radio several years ago, mentioned that number in particular as having been enjoyed.
Out of town friends here for the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. D. H. Hanley and Mr. and Mrs. Roy Layton of Simsboro; H. Gross and family of Athens, and Mrs. Clayton Browns and Mr. and Mrs. A. M. Fitch of Dallas.
Notes:
--
Jan 24, 1856 - Mar 22, 1935
PIONEER CORSICANA BUSINESS
MAN WAS BURIED ON SUNDAY
Funeral rites for Emil Frey,
aged 79 years, retired
photographer and pioneer
resident of Corsicana, who
died Friday morning at 3
o'clock, were held from the
family home, 1304 East
Seventh avenue, Sunday
afternoon at 3 o'clock with
burial in Oakwood cemetery.
The services were conducted
by Rev. H. J. Ellis rector
of St. John�s Episcopal
church. Mr. Frey had resided
in Corsicana for 53 years.
He was a well-known
violinist.
Surviving are his wife, a
son, Albert Frey, Corsicana;
and five grandchildren.
Pallbearers were S. M. Kerr,
A. B. Douglas, J. Y Stewart,
A. W. Levermann, Sam Crane,
W. P. McCammon, Wm. V.
Mowlam and Bert Nicol.
The funeral was directed by
Sutherland-McCammon Funeral
Home.
Notes:
Marion (Bunert) Casey
Jul 2, 1857 - Oct 22, 1940
MRS. MARION CASEY DIED MONDAY NIGHT; FUNERAL ON TUESDAY
Mrs. Marion Bunert Casey died at her home at 1305 East Seventh avenue Monday night. Funeral services will be held from the family home at 5 o'clock this (Tuesday) afternoon. Rev. H. J. Ellis, rector emeritus of the St. John�s Episcopal church, will conduct the rites. Burial will be in Oakwood cemetery.
Mrs. Casey was a native of Ohio but came to Corsicana when only a child and had resided here since that time.
Surviving are two sisters, Miss Bertha Bunert and Mrs. E. Frey, both of Corsicana, and other relatives.
Sutherland-McCammon will direct the arrangements.
Notes:
---
FUNERAL SERVICES FOR MRS. CASEY WERE HELD LATE TUESDAY
Funeral services for Mrs. Marion Bunert Casey, who died Monday night, were held Tuesday afternoon at 5 o'clock from the family residence, 1305 East Seventh avenue.
Rev. H. J. Ellis, rector emeritus of the St. John�s Episcopal church, conducted the rites. Burial was in the Oakwood cemetery.
Mrs. Casey was a native of Ohio but came to Corsicana when only a child and had resided here since that time.
Surviving are two sisters, Miss Bertha Bunert and Mrs. E. Frey, both of Corsicana, and other relatives.
Sutherland-McCammon directed the arrangements.
Notes:
---
Relatives, Friends Attended Last Rites For Mrs. Mary Casey
Among the many sorrowing friends attending the impressive funeral services Tuesday afternoon at 5 o'clock for the late Mrs. Mary Casey, that were held at the family home on East Seventh Avenue by the Rev. H. J. Ellis, rector emeritus of St. John�s Episcopal Church, were Athens relatives of the family, and Mrs. E. A. Johnson of Dallas, a very close friend of the deceased and her family and her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Browne. Heartfelt sympathy is extended the bereaved loved ones by their large circle of friends.
Notes:
Harriett Jane �Hattie� (Greenwood) Caldwell
Dec 5, 1851 - Jul 6, 1920
Funeral Was Held This Afternoon
The remains of the late Mrs. Hattie Caldwell reached here last night from Fort Worth, accompanied by her son, Rufus Caldwell and wife, A. G. Caldwell and her son-in-law and daughter Mrs. Blount Hodge and the funeral took place this afternoon at 4 o'clock from the home of A. G. Caldwell, 1555 West Third Avenue with interment Oakwood. Rev. B. W. Vining officiated and the following were pallbearers: Active, Geo. E. Jester, R. N. Elliott, W. B. Sweatmon, C. L. Matthews, J. S. Millerman and Byron Cheney. Honorary, W. P. McCammon, C. L. Jester, E. S. McGee, W. M. Peck, B. K. Duncan, Geo. F. Miller, C. E. Lee, J. L. Halbert, C. H. DeLafosse and J. H. Millerman.
The last sad rites were largely attended and there were many beautiful floral offerings.
Notes:
Thomas Harvey Robinson
May 23, 1860 - Nov 6, 1920
GOOD CITIZEN PASSED AWAY.
Remains Were Interred in Oakwood Yesterday.
Thomas H. Robinson, aged sixty years and five months, and for most of his life a resident of Navarro county, died at his home, 526 North Nineteenth Street, late Saturday afternoon after a long illness, and the funeral took place from the home at 4:30 yesterday afternoon and was largely attended and there were many floral offerings. The services at the home were conducted by Revs. J. Walter Simpson of Corsicana and W. L. Patterson of Eureka, and the official members of the United Presbyterian church as pall bearers, and the services at the grave were concluded by the Odd Fellows. The deceased who was in all respects an honored citizen, is survived by his wife and several grown children.
Notes:
-
The Corsicana Daily Sun
- Monday, Nov 8, 1920
- Submitted by
Diane Richards
- 1st wife Mary Caroline (Bonner) Robinson married Jan. 8, 1882 2nd wife Ettie (Foster) Robinson married June 16, 1898 s/o James Bonner Robinson and Elizabeth Ann �Eliza� (Bonner) Robinson
- Oakwood cemetery
Lela Charlotte (Wallace) Marr
Apr 12, 1888 - Oct 14, 1953
October 17, 1953
CORSICANA, Texas. - Mrs. Marr's Funeral Is Held at Corsicana Funeral services for Mrs. W. C. (Judge) Marr, 65, were held at the Corley Chapel Thursday.
Surviving are her husband, two sons, C. E. Marr and Clyde Marr, both of Corsicana; three daughters, Mrs. Betty Jo Benefield of Dallas and Mrs. Zelma Hampton and Mrs. Zella Conner of Corsicana; two brothers, A. B. Wallace of Portales, N.M., and Henry W. Wallace of Phoenix, Ariz.; three sisters, Mrs. Ella Wilbanks of Portalkes, N.M.; Mrs. Lizzie Fluker of Troup and Mrs. Mamie Furrah of Amarillo; fifteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Notes:
---
Mrs. Judge Marr Rites Thursday
Mrs. W. C. (Judge) Marr, 65, 215 South Twentieth street, died in
Memorial Hospital Wednesday afternoon.
Funeral services were held from Corley Chapel Thursday at 4 p.m.
with burial in Oakwood cemetery.
The rites were conducted by Rev. Jack Goff, pastor of the West Side
Baptist church, and Rev. Bob Cheek, pastor of the North Side Baptist
church.
A native of Bryan, Texas, Mrs. Marr had resided in Corsicana for
many years.
Surviving are her husband, a retired Corsicana fireman; two sons, C.
E. and Clyde Marr, both of Corsicana; three daughters, Mrs. Betty Jo
Benefield, Dallas; Mrs. Zelma Hampton and Mrs. Zella Conner, both of
Corsicana; two brothers, A. B. Wallace, Portales, N. M., and Henry
W. Wallace, Phoenix, Ariz.; three sisters, Mrs. Ella Wilbanks,
Portales, N. M.; Mrs. Lizzie Fluker, Troup, and Mrs. Mamie Furrah,
Amarillo; 15 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and other
relatives.
One grandson, Pvt. James A. Marr, U. S. Army, is stationed in Korea.
Grandsons were pallbearers.
Notes:
Robert Lee
Marr
September 9, 1935 - July 21, 2014
Mesquite, Texas
Robert Lee Marr was born September 9, 1935 in Corsicana, Texas
and passed away July 21, 2014 in Mesquite, Texas.
Preceded in death by his parents, Chester Elmer and Allie Bell
Marr; sisters, Helen Adams, Deloris Farmer and grand daughter,
Theresa Adams. He is survived by his [....] Annie Mae Marr.
A graveside service will be held July 29, 2014 at Chapel Garden
Mausoleum, Restland Memorial Park.
Rhonda Cherie (Cacy)
Hayes-Blythe
Oct 30, 1954 - Feb 4, 2014
 CACY,
RHONDA Rhonda Cherie Cacy of Lubbock, formerly of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away on Tuesday, February 4,
2014 at the age of 59. She was born October 30, 1954 in Albuquerque to Lee and Ruby (McAfee) Cacy. She was a
business owner and loved making jewelry and pinatas which she sold. She was a gifted artist who enjoyed hunting,
fishing, and riding motorcycles. Rhonda was a member of Netherwood Park Church of Christ in Albuquerque. Those left
to cherish her memory are her husband, Mark Blythe; daughter, Michelle Hayes of Blue Springs, Missouri; son,
David Hayes of Grain Valley, Missouri; mother, Ruby Cacy of Lubbock; two sisters, Diana Beeson of Lubbock and Yvonne
Cacy of Farmington, New Mexico; and three grandchildren, Jennifer, Jordan and Cole Hayes. Rhonda was preceded in
death by her father, Lee, and grandparents, S. E. and Zora McAfee. Memorial services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on
Saturday, February 8, 2014 at Combest Family Memorial Chapel. Please celebrate the life of Rhonda by visiting
www.combestfamily funeralhomes.com |
-----
 Rhonda
Cacy was born in 1954. Rhonda currently lives in Lubbock. Before
that, she lived in Albuquerque , NM from 2002 to 2012. After
high school, she went to The University of New Mexico
(1980-1980) in , . she attended college from 80 to 80. sandia
high school albuquerque new mexico (1971-1972) in, . she
attended college from 71 to 72. |
Bamma Louise (Fuller) Kennedy
Mar 25, 1925 - Apr 9, 2015
 Louise grew up on a farm between Frost and Blooming Grove. She was born to Olen Marvin and Lillie Beaird Fuller and she shared
that home with younger brother Olen Marvin "Buddy" Fuller Jr. She graduated Frost High School in 1943 and moved to
Dallas to attend Business School. She met and married Leslie John Kennedy in 1945 while he was on leave from WWII. When
he returned they settled in Grand Prairie, Tx, where they had four children. Louise worked in her early years for LTV
Corporation as an executive assistant and then in 1965 became a successful director in Mary Kay Cosmetics.
Louise was a wonderful daughter to her parents and always saw to their needs till they passed. She enjoyed family
events and all the family loved her cooking. She was a wonderful seamstress sewing many of her children's clothes
and later making beautiful square dance outfits as well as gowns. Late in life she started square dancing and ball room
dancing loving music, exercise and all the friends she made. She adored her 4 children, nine grandchildren, sixteen great
and twin great great grandchildren.
She survived members of her family:
Son, Larry Boyd Kennedy, 1948 - 1969
Husband, Leslie John Kennedy, 1925- 1977
Daughter, Sherry Kennedy Johnson 1947 - 2008
Sandra Kennedy Neese 1953 and Debbie Kennedy Jenkins 1956
live in San Marcos and New Braunfels area.
Louise most wanted people to know that she loved God. She
would share her knowledge with most anyone she came into
contact with. She knew her scripture and wanted everyone to
know the loving grace of knowing God as your Lord and
Savior. She now resides with him and she is greatly missed.
|
Notes:
Robert Doyle "Bob" Carroll
Sept 10, 1965 - Apr 19, 2016
 Mr.
Bob Carroll, 50, of Corsicana passed away on Tuesday, April
19, 2016 at Navarro Regional Hospital in Corsicana.
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you
trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the
power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13
On Sept. 10, 1965, Bob was born to Rudy F. Carroll and
Billie Joyce Morris Carroll in Crockett, Texas.
Bob graduated from
Corsicana High School in 1984 and began his college
career at Navarro College before transferring to Texas A&M
University.
He graduated from Texas A&M in 1988. He was a proud "Fightin'
Texas Aggie." After graduation he moved to Houston and was
employed by Ralston Purina. In 1991 Bob took a job in
Dallas working for Western Union. He later moved back to
Corsicana and was hired as a Loan Officer/Vice President at
Community National Bank in October of 2010. He served his
customers proudly.
Bob's pride and joy was his children. He enjoyed teaching
them, encouraging them and loving them. He and his son Cody
traveled all over the state of Texas showing llamas, goats
and sheep. These were very special times for Cody and Bob.
When Rylie Catherine was born in 2006, she quickly became a
daddy's girl. He supported her in all she did, from dance to
soccer to showing animals.
Bob's stepchildren, Anna and Owen Abbe, joined his family in
October
2014 when he married their mother Susan. Owen always
challenged Bob with his inquisitive nature and curious mind.
Anna and Bob enjoyed playing jokes on each other and making
each other laugh.
Bob was an encourager, a supporter and a servant. He was a
member of First United Methodist Church in Blooming Grove.
He served as treasurer of the South Central Llama
Association where he sought to revive the youth involvement
in llama showing. He also served on various committees and
boards in Navarro County that supported youth and
agriculture in the area.
Bob was a mentor to those around him. He loved to teach and
encourage others to do their best. He was never too busy to
help someone. Bob was passionate about his family and he
will be missed by many. Especially Susan, Cody, Rylie, Anna,
Owen, Rudy and Billie.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents and uncles, W.
E. Carroll and Dr. J D Carroll. He is survived by his
wife, Susan Carroll of Corsicana; son, Cody Carroll of Bryan
College Station; daughter, Rylie Catherine Carroll of
Corsicana; step daughter, Anna Abbe of Corsicana; step son,
Owen Abbe of Corsicana; parents, Rudy and Billie Carroll of
Corsicana; father and mother-in-law, Robert and Becky
Thurston of Corsicana; sister-in-law, Gayla Carroll and
husband Ray of Corsicana; aunts, Frances Holdeman of
Mansfield and Donna Penney and husband Gary of Lorena;
uncle, Dr. Ray Dean Carroll of Corsicana, and numerous
cousins.
Visitation with the family will be held from 6 to 8 p.m.
Friday, April 22, 2016 at Corley Funeral Home. Funeral
services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 23, 2016 at
First Baptist Church with the Rev. Kevin Diggs and Dr.
Steven Bell officiating.
Interment will follow in the
Rose Hill Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Michael Hickerson, Matt Wallen, Dean
Pritchett, Andy Penney, Matt Penney, and Ray Carroll.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
the South Central Llama Association, PO Box 163654, Austin,
TX 78716 or to Blooming Grove United Methodist Church, PO
Box 37, Blooming Grove, Texas 76626. |
Notes:
Harold
Corley Warren
Jul. 4, 1908 - May 17, 1976
H. C. Warren
Services will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the Griffin Funeral Home
Chapel for Harold Corley Warren , 67, resident of Route 6,
Corsicana, who died yesterday in the Veterans Administration
Hospital in San Antonio.
The Rev. Garry Neal and Rev. Gene Gardner will officiate, with
burial following at
Providence Cemetery.
Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Margaret Warren of Rt. 6; a son
David D. Warren of Rt. 6; a daughter, Mrs. Judith Nan Gammill of Rt.
6; his step-mother, Mrs. Runa Warren of Cisco; a grandson, Chon
Gammill of Rt. 6; four brothers, Biully C. Collins, Harry Warren,
and Jimmy D. Warren all Fort Worth and Jay Warren of Plano; four
sisters, Mrs. Mrs. Otis Skiles of Cisco, Mrs. Davis Fields of
Abilene, Mrs. John McGee of Fort Worth and Mrs. Tommy Pee of
Jackson, Miss., and a number of nieces, nephews and other relatives.
He was a member of the Providence Missionary Baptist Church, Eureka
Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite and a retired army officer.
Pallbearers include Chilton Mathes, B. D. Rash, Claude Hervy, Willie
Hodge, Wilson Warner, Clayton Kent.
Notes:
|
Navarro County TXGenWeb