Oconee Enterprise Obituaries
1926

Oconee Enterprise
Friday, January 15, 1926
Page One


A.H. Davison Dies At Athens Home Athens, Ga., January 10. - A.H. Davison, 67, president of the Davison-Nicholson Company department store, and prominent Athens citizen for 40 years, died suddenly tonight at 7 o'clock at his home here. While the passing of Mr. Davison was sudden and unexpected, he had been in ill health for some time, although he was up and about.
Mr. Davison was born at Woodville in 1859 and come to Athens 48 years ago and had been in business here for 40 years. The firm of which he was president, Davison Nicholson Company, has for a number of years been one of the leading department stores here, catering to this section of Georgia and to the large number of students in the college here.
He took an active interest in all civic affair (sic) affecting the city welfare and was a pioneer in the development of the apple industry in northeast Georgia. He was a member of the First Methodist church of Athens. For a number of years he was a trustee of the State Normal college here.
He is survived by his widow, who before her marriage was Miss Ida Dorsey; one daughter, Mrs. E.L. Ackiss, of Washington, D.C.; two sons, A.E. and A.H. Davison, Jr. of Athens; two brothers, R.E. Davison of Woodville, chairman of the prison commission, and T.C. Davison of Comer.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, January 15, 1926
Page One

Mr. Lewis W. Saxon Died Last Saturay (sic)
Mr. Lewis W. Saxon, aged 79, one of Oconee's best known citizens, died Saturday night at 10 o'clock, following a week's illness of pneumonia. While feeble because of age, Mr. Saxon until a week before death was up and around the house attending to his usual duties. Always active, Attending (sic) strictly to his own affairs, quiet, unassuming in his nature, he numbered his friends by his acquaintances and his community and county will sadly miss his presence.
Rev. F.L. Adams, his pastor, conducted the funeral exercises last Sunday, interment being in the Elder cemetery.
Mr. Saxon is survived by seven children, forty grandchildren, and thirty two great-grandchildren. His children are: Mrs. J.S. Hale, Farmington; L.H. Saron (sic), of Monroe; Mrs. J.W. Greaves, of Salem; L.E. Saxon, Farmington; Mrs. J.L. Thrasher, Union Point; Misses Essie and Estelle Saxon; a brother, Mr. H.M. Saron (sic), of Oconee, and Mrs. Harriet Reynolds of Newnan.
The Enterprise extends deepest sympathy to the bereaved loved ones.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, January 22, 1926
Page One

Mr. W.C. Sims, of Oconee, Is Dead
Mr. WilliamG. (sic) Sims, ages 75, died at the home of Mr. W.A. McDonald, in Monroe, Ga., at 12:05 o'clock last Thursday after an illness of two weeks duration.
Funeral services were conducted from the Hebron church in Oconee county Friday at 2 o'clock by Rev. W.B. McDonald. Interment was in the Sims cemetery. Mr. Sims was a member of the Christian church.
Mr. Sims is survived by his widow, Mrs. Susie Sims; three daughters, Mrs. W.A. McDonald, Monroe; Mrs. J.C. Paine, Athens; Mrs. N.C. Woods, Athens; a son, Mr. T.C. Sims, Macon; and several grandchildren. Mr. Sims was a citizen of Oconee until recently. - Walton News



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, January 22, 1926
Page One

Rites for Mrs. Sam Jones Held at Cartersville
Cartersville, Ga., Jan 20 - Cartersville paused today and paid tribute to one of its best loved citizens, Mrs. Sam P. Jones, widow of the famous evangelist, whose funeral was held here this morning at 11 o'clock.
Hhe (sic) services were conducted by Rev. W.H. Clark, pastor of the Sam P. Jones Memorial church, at the church and the board of trustees, the board of stewards, the Woman's Missionary society and the Adult Wesley Bible class formed the honorary escort.
The local pastor was assisted by Rev. L.M. Twiggs, pastor of the St. John's Methodist church, Atlanta, and former pastor of the church here and Rev. S.A. Harris, of Dalton



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, January 22, 1926
Page One

Bishop Citizen Laid To Rest
Mr. W.J. Saville, aged 63 years died at the family home at Bishop at noon Friday from a lengthy illness. The funeral was held at the residence Saturday morning at 10:30 o'clock by Rev. T.E. Kelley, the interment was in the Bishop cemetery with Dorsey's Funeral directors in charge. The Watkinsville Mason assisted by the High Shoals lodge giving him full Masonic honors.
Surviving are his wife, six sons; George, James, Thomas, Curtis, Otis, and Howard Saville, one daughter, Miss Evelyn Saville, one brother, Mr. George Saville, one sister,, (sic) Mrs. Grace Henderson. Mr. Saville had lived at Bishop for two years, moving there from Maysville, where he was prominently connected. He was a member of the Baptist Church.
The Enterprise extends their heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved ones.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, February 5, 1926
Page One

Mr. James O'Dillon Dies Sunday after Short Illness
Mr. James O'Dillon, aged 81 years, prominent and beloved Oconee county citizen, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. F.J. Marshall, with whom had had been making his home for the past few years, since retiring from active farming, which he had been one of the most successful at an early hour Sunday morning, from an illness lasting only one week.
The funeral was held at Salem Methodist church, of which he had been a consistent member for many years, at 2:30 o'clock Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W.A. Bagerley, of Bishop, Ga., with Dorsey's funeral directors in charge, acting as pallbearers were the following grandsons: Mr. U.R. O'Dillon, Mr. J.M. O'Dillon, Mr. A.L. Hale, Mr. H.J. O'Dillon, Mr. J.W. Marshall, and Mr. Wayman Marshall.
Surviving Mr. O'Dillon are three sons, Messrs. W.B., T.L. and J.E. O'Dillon, all prominent citizens of Oconee county; two daughters, Mrs. B.F. Marshall and Mrs. H.T. Hansley; one step-son, Mr. J.S. Hale each of Oconee county; thirty-three grandchildren and thirty-four great-grandchildren, together with a large family connection.
Mr. O'Dillon was born and lived his entire life in Oconee county. He was a member of the Methodist church, a Confederate soldier, and was for fiften (sic) years justice of peace of Salem district of Oconee county.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, Feburary 5, 1926
Page One

Mr. Wines Martin Dies After Long Illness Sunday
Mr. Vines Martin, well known Athenian, died at a local hospital Sunday night at 7:45 o'clock. Mr. Martin has been ill for threemonths (sic). He was fifty-three years of age at the time of his death. Mr. Martin was born at Buford, Ga., but came to Athensnineteen (sic) years ago where he has been in business since, a member of the well known firm of Martin Brothers, known throughout northeast Georgia.
The funeral services for Mr. Martin were held from the First Baptist church at 3:30 o'clock Tuesday afternoon conducted by Dr. J.C. Wilkinson, Mr. Martin's pastor and assisted by Dr. S.W. Wasson and Rev. J.V.M. Morris, Methodist Ministers. The interment was in the Oconee cemetery, Bernstein Bros., funeral home in charge.
The pallbearers were Messrs. E.L. Moore, Fayette Diel, Ed Hale,, (sic) L.O. Price, E.R. Harris, and R.O. Breazeals, George Joner and Frank Lipscomb.
The honorary pallbearers were Mrssrs. Jake Joel, Gasper Palmisano, M.M. Arnold, F.B. Hinton, B.R. Bloodworth, George Stone, Cobb Lampkin, A.G. Dudley, S.B. Wingfield and Frank Thornton.
Mr. Martin is survived by his widow, Mrs. Azalee Martin, one daughter, Miss Mary Martin, two sons,, Messrs. Jack, Richard Martin, a brother, Mr. Dink Martin, one sister, Mrs. W.W. Martin, of Columbia, S. Carolina.
Mr. Martin, although forced to use a wheel chair on account of an illness, was one of the most cheerful men in Athens. He was manager of the upper Clayton street store of Martin Brothers and his ready smile and cheery salution to passerby made him the friend of hundreds of people who didn't know his name. However, he was well known throughout this section, and leaves a wide circle of friends and acquaintances who will not forget his kindly manner and courage through years of illness that might have caused another man of less determination to give up.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, February 12, 1926

Another Good Man Crosses Great Divide
In the death of Mr. J.J. Gunter, at his home near Pine Grove last Friday morning, at 2 o'clock, Oconee sustains the loss of another good man, an ideal citizen in every sense of the term, and his genial presence in our midst will be sorely missed and hard to fill. He was 86 years old and a son of the late J.J. and Ann Adams Gunter, of Walton county. He leaves a brother, Mr. T.H. Gunter, of Walton; two sisters, Mrs. Robt. Wier, of Athens; Mrs. J.B. cook, of our county; a number of nieces and nephews among who is Mrs. Ferd Johnson, of our town.
The funeral was conducted by Rev. Mr. Kelley from Bethabara church last Saturday afternoon, the interment with full Masonic honors following in the nearby cemetery beside his faithful consort who proceded (sic) him to the grave some six years ago.
Our heart's tender sympathy is extended his loved ones.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, February 12, 1926

Gus Langford Dies In Atlanta
The following news item, carried in last Sunday's Atlanta Journal, brought sorrow to many in Watkinsville, where Gus Langford was born and spent his youg (sic) manhood.
Mr. Augustine M. Langford, of 190 Crew Street, for 35 years connected with the Chamberlin-Johnson-Dubose company, died at his residence Saturday night after a brief illness.
Mr. Langford who was 53 years old was assistant manager of the silk and dry goods department of Chamberlin-Johnson-Dubose, and was one of the most faithful and valued employees of that company, according to members of the firm.
Mr. Langford was unmarried. He is survived by two sisters, Mrs. R.W. Tuck, of Coal City, Ala., and Mrs. W.B. Jackson, of Athens, Ga., and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Henry Winn, of our town, is an uncle by marriage of Mr. Langford.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, February 19, 1926
Page 6

Mrs. J.H. Langford, Sr., Goes to Her Reward
Mrs. Ella H. Langford, widow of the late J. Hillary Langford, Sr., died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Carl Parsons, last Friday night at 11 o'clock at the age of 75 years. She had been sick only a very short time and her demise was a shock to her large circle of friends and relatives.
Surviving Mrs. Langford are: four sons, Clerk J.H. Langford, of Watkinsville; J.C. Langford, Winder; O.M. Langford, Bethlehem; C.M. Langford, Mars Hill; four daughters, Mrs. J.W. Brooks, Porterdale; Mrs. Bettie Thornton and Mrs. Lester Wood, Winder; Mrs. C.C. Parsons, Union; one brother, J.W. Daniel, of Clark; one sister, Mrs. W.C. Morris of Oconee, and a number of grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Funeral services were conducted from Mars Hill Baptist church Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock by her pastor Rev. E.D. Kelly, interment immediately followin (sic) in the church cemetery.
Thus another noble woman joins the throng innumerable on the other side, leaving behind many sorrowing loved ones, to whom the sympathy of all is extended in this hour of gloom.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, February 19, 1926
Page 6

Another Aged Oconee Woman Passes Away
After a long illness, Mrs. Eliza E. Ballew, aged 78, passed away Friday at the home at Barnett Shoals and the funeral was conducted at the Methodist church at Barnett Shoals Saturday. We extend sympathy to these bereft.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, February 26, 1926
Page One

Death of J.L. Downs Removes Good Citizen
When death stilled the heart of John Lindsay Downs last Saturday afternoon, shortly after 3 o'clock, Watkinsville and Oconee county lost one of its most useful citizens.
Confined to his home barely more than a week, the news of his death was a distinct shock to thousands of his friends who were unaware of the seriousness of his last illness and brought sadness to the hearts of all. Mr. Downs is survived by a large family connection, the immediate members being his faithful wife and aged mother; two daughters, Miss Eula Downs of Watkinsville and Miss Katie Downs of the Normal School; five sons, Alva C., L. Warren, Harvey O., R. Hussey and Edward, all of Watkinsville; five sisters, Mrs. W.L. Hall and Mrs. R.C. Elder of Oconee; Mrs. J.T. Osborn, Americus; Mrs. E.A. Hall, Atlanta; Mrs. T.L. O'Dillon, Watkinsville; four brothers, W.W., J.R. and J.A. Downs of Oconee and W.L. Downs, of Vidalia; two grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
The pallbearers were C.A. Duggan, C.C. Parsons, Mell McRee, O.D. Chandelr (sic), W.H. Ashford and E.P. Johnston.
Funeral services were conducted from the Methodist church here Monday morning at 11 o'clock, by his pastor, Rev. B.H. Trammell, assisted by Rev. F.D. Cantrell, of Union Point, and Rev. J.W. McWhorter, of Winder, and Rev. E.D. Kelley, of Bishop, the interment following in the cemetery at Johnson church near his old homestead.
Thus passes from life's stage of action one of nature's noblemen, for there's not a heart in all this community but what he has in darkest hours comforted by his acts and presence. Big in his stature, his heart was equally large and, like a guardian angel, encompassed all about him and painted many faultering souls to the rift in the clouds of gloom and caused by sickness and death. Service to his fellowmen was his guiding star and the monuments he erected in the hearts of his loved ones and fellow travelers will survive and flourish long after granite and stone has returned to dust. He will not pass this way again but his example of unselfish serviec (sic) will never fade and his heritage is far more precious than rubies and gold to those who left behind.
To his loved ones and friends our heart's tenderest sympathy is extended for we, too, know and realize that in the passing of Lindsay Downs we, in common with the entire community have lost a friend indeed.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, March 5, 1926
Page One

Elberton Woman and Four Children die at Grade Crossing
Elberton, Ga. - A grade crossing accident near here Sunday night claimed a fearful toll when a mother, her four children ranging in age from 2 to 12 years were killed, and the father and son were seriously injured when Seaboard Air Line passenger train number 48 struck an automobile seven miles west of Elberton.
The dead are, Mrs. W.E. Fortson, and four children, Hattie, 11; Lena, 6; Beatrice, 4; and Earl, 2. The injured are W.E. Fortson, and a son, William, who were seriously hurt, but will recover, physicians say. The accident occurred about 7 o'clock at Oglesby's crossing of the Seaboard railroad on the Elberton-Athens highway.
According to information reaching here, Mr. Fortson, who was returning to Elberton in his car, stop a local train from the east and not hearing any sound, proceeded to cross the track when his automobile was struck by the S.A.L. fast train running from Atlanta to Washington. The car was knocked some distance and it was a horrible sight that greeted the eyes of the trainmen who stopped and rushed to the scene of the accident.
The dead and injured were hastily placed aboard the train which came to Elberton. The injured persons were rushed to the Elberton hospital were two of the children, Beatrice and Earl, died a short time afterward.
Mr. Fortson, who is 45 years old, is a member of the firm of the Elberton Machine works and the family is one of the most prominent here.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, March 5, 1926

Mrs. J. Cleghorn Died Tuesday at High Shoals
Mrs. Jessie Cleghorn, aged 49, died at the home in High Shoals Tuesday morning at 10:30 o'clock.
Funeral services were conducted from High Shoals Baptist church at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon by Rev. R.J. Cook, pastor interment followed in the High Shoals cemetery.
The nephews of Mrs. Cleghorn acting as pallbearers.
Mrs. Cleghorn is survived by her husband, Mr. W.A. Cleghorn, two daughters, Mrs. Allen J. Cook, of High Shoals and Mrs. Willie Allen, High Shoals; two sisters and two brothers, and her father, Mr. Edd Peeler, Mrs. Cleghorn was a member of the Baptist church.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, March 12, 1926
Page 3

In Memory of Brother Jimmie Gunter
On Friday morning February 5th 1926, the gentle spirit of Brother Gunter took its departure to that house not made with hands eternal in the Heavens. Jas. J. Gunter was 86 years old when God called him, he was a native of Walton county, Ga., was born in 1840. Joined the Methodist church in his boyhood days, inlisted (sic) in the army April, 1861, served four years, returning home in the spring of 1865, he served under Captain Enoch McCullum, was married to Missouria Cook of Oconee county in 1867 joined the Mars Hill Baptist Church with his wife some 12 years ago.
Brother Gunters record as a Master Mason was something to be proud of, he was made a Mason at Mountain Lodge in Walton county at the age of 22 years, he was worked with the Craft at Bogart almost since the Lodge was instituted, having moved his membership from Walton county he was faithful in all his undertakings, he was loyal to friends, his community, Lodge and church. Brother Gunter lived a life before the world that was an inspiration to all who knew him.
Whereas, God in his wise providence has seen fit to remove from our midst one of our most loved brothers and coworkers, we do most humbly resolve to submit to the will of Him who doeth all things well.
Be it resolved. That we as Masons try the hardest to imitate the beautiful life of our deceased brother, thereby better fitting our spiritual lives as living stones for that building not made with hands eternal in the Heavens.
Be it resolved further. That our deepest sympathy and love be extended to the family and relatives of our deceased brother, and that our prayers be lifted for Gods richest blessings ever rest on them. Be it further resolved. That a copy of these resolutions be spread upon the records of our Lodge, and a copy be sent to the family and also a copy be sent to the local papers for publication.
Respectfully Submitted,
O.H. Bradbury
Dr. L.H. Elder,
Committee
Bogart Lodge 507
F.& A.M.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, September 24, 1926

Another Old Veteran Responds to Final Bugle Blast of Invisible Army Becoming over-heated because of over-exertion laboring in his garden, upsetting his already enfeebled system from which he never rallied despite all that human agency could do, Mr. Henry F. Winn, one of our oldest and most respected citizens , heeded the call of the Great Commander-in-Chief at 7 o'clock last Monday morning and, soldier that he was, again obediently took his place in the ranks of the gray-clad hosts "under the shade of the trees" with the immortal Jackson and his old invincibles of the "days that tried men's souls."
"Marse Henry," as this fine old character was affectionately known to the old and young alike, and every one was his friend because he was a friend himself to everybody, had reached the honored age of eighty-five years on the 13th day of last March and during all the long eventful years he spent among us aught derogatory concerning him was ever uttered by anybody. As a barefoot boy the writer spent many happy hours in his little shoe shop, watching him expertly ply his trade, while interestingly he related his war experiences, advising our youthful mind in right-living, while pointing out the pitfalls in the pathway of youth. He loved children, always took them into his confidence, and right up to the end he delighted to have them around him equally as well as they were eager to be with him. He was youth's friend and youth in return worshipped at his shrine.
Mr. Winn's immediate relatives surviving are Miss Annie Winn, a daughter residing with him in the home here; another daughter, Mrs. Jim Butler of Atlanta, and a son, Rev. L.A. Winn of Statham. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. John H. Wood of Winder, his old=time pastor, interment following in Watkinsville cemetery with the following gentlemen acting as pallbearers: C.C. Parsons, J.H. Langford, T.B. Fullilove, A.Y. Crowley, C.A. Duggan and R.M. Nicholson.
"Uncle Henry" was one of only two of three now surviving original members of the famous Troupe artillery, in which intrepid company, captained by the late gallant Henry H. Carlton, he became an expert gunner, famed throughout the length and breadth of Lee's army for the accuracy of his three-pounder, with which it is said he could invariably hit a port=hole in the yankee fortifications with his second shot if he happened to fail in his first trial. He loved his old cannon so much and so well that he could not bear the thought of surrendering it to the enemy, so when the coder came to lay down arms, fully loaded and ready for any eventuality of peace negotiations, "Uncle Henry" affectionately buried forever from sight this engine of death on the bloody battlefields of old Virginia, where it will remain until that day when the Great I Am proclaims universal and eternal peace to the torn and bleeding hearts of restless humankind.
Farewell, old pal of mine, until that gladsome hour when we will again strike hands in friendly greeting in that world never-ending.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, September 3, 1926

Mrs. F.A. Gillen Answers Master's Call
Friday morning, about 3 o'clock, at her home in Bradenton, Florida, Mrs. Lillian Moore Gillen, beloved and faithful life companion of former Representative and County Solicitor Fred A. Gillen, passed away. She had been in precarious health for several months but her last illness was brief, and notwithstanding that everything that skilled physicians and trained hands could do for her was anxiously done, she answered the call of the inevitable and went to dwell with God and loved ones on the other shore.
Besides her sorely bereft husband she leaves an infant daughter, three brothers, Edgar and Hubert Moore, Bishop; Lester Moore, Bradenton; three sisters, Miss Odessa Moore and Mrs. Durden, Atlanta, and a sister living at Dublin, and a number of other relatives and just thousands of friends in Oconee and Barrow counties, her old home.
Mrs. Gillens remains werebrought (sic)to Watkinsville, arriving here Saturday night over the Central, at nine o'clock, where it rested in the home of Mr. And Mrs. Frank Gillen until the hour of the funeral at 3 o'clock Sunday afternoon in the local Baptist church, of which the deceased was a loyal member, Rev. E.D. Kelly conducting the last sad services, interment following in Watkinsville cemetery attended by a great crowd of grief-stricken friends and former associates in the old home town.
With Mrs. Gillen's passing a noble, Christina woman has gone to abide with hose gone before and earth is poorer because of her absence, but if her example is emulated, one of these days loved ones will meet her again in Beulah-land and present-time grief and gloom will vanish before the silver rays of the land of hope and beauty and joy will reign supreme throughout that world that knows no ending time.
Our heart's tenderest sympathy is with all those bereft by the going away of this good woman.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 1, 1926
Page 5

Miss Annie Winn Succumbs
After intense agony, due to frightful burns sustained on Wednesday morning, Sept. 22nd, Miss Annie Winn was relieved of her suffering on last Friday morning, at seven o'clock, and closely followed her beloved father into the unknown.
She leaves a sister, Mrs. James J. Butler, of Atlanta; one brother, Rev. L.A. Winn, of Statham, and numbers of other less close relatives to lament her demise.
Funeral services were conducted last Friday afternoon, at 4:30 by Rev. W.F. Lunsford of the local Methodist church, interment following in Watkinsville cemetery.
The peculiarly tragic incidents relative to the passing of "Miss Annie" shocked and saddened the entire community and the heart of all is wrung in sorrow and anguish because of her passing.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 1, 1926
Page 5

Mrs. Roberta Weatherford
After a series of dangerous operations, apparently successfully withstood, and giving hopeful promise of eventual convalescence, a sudden turn for the worse carried Mrs. Roberta Weatherford, wife of Mr. Dave Weatherford, from earth to the better land at 2:50 o'clock last Sunday afternoon at an Athens hospital.
Funeral services were held at Mars Hill Monday afternoon, at 3:300, conducted by Rev. John H. Wood, of Winder, assisted by Rev. B.P. Read of Young Harris Memorial church, Athens. Interment followed in Mars Hill cemetery, the following near-relatives acting as pallbearers: J.G. Weatherford, J.A. Weatherford, F.L. Weatherford, J.T. Dawson, R.C. Dawson and I.E. Thornton. Surviving are the husband, three sons, Elmer, Eldridge and Edgar Weatherford; three sisters, Mrs. W.J. Norris, Bogart; Mrs. Fletcher Mathews, Athens; Mrs. Hoyt Brant, Berkeley, and the following brothers: J.T. Dawson, Barnesville; R.C. and W.C. Dawson, Watkinsville; I.E. Thornton, Athens, and Harry Thornton, Hawkinsville.
Mrs. Weatherford had only been seriously ill for just a few short weeks and received the aid of the best medical skill and expert attention but all in vain, for the Master had need of her in yonder world and beckoned her hence to take up eternal abode in the home not made with hands.
The deceased was a good Christian woman, faithful wife and devoted mother, and the desolate home bereft of her loving attention is now well-nigh unbearable and the inscrutable wisdom of Providence is past human understanding; therefore, time alone will reveal His purpose and, some day, around the Great White Throne in gloryland, faithful husband and loving children will again be taken to her heart, if only they will follow in mother's footsteps.
Our heart in tender sympathy is with those now inconsolable.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 1, 1926
Page 5

B.D. Wells
Bravely battling with the inevitable through long days and weary nights since early spring, Boyd D. Wells, age 24, son of Mr. And Mrs. E.B. Wells of our town, on last Sunday night, at 10:40 heeded the call all humanity will one day hear, and obediently launched his bark in life's and eternity's stream, with prow pointed toward the sunrise of endless day, thus beginning a new life in a new country, from "whose bourne no traveler returns."
Funeral services for this extremely popular young man was held from the Baptist church last Tuesday morn at 11 o'clock, conducted by his pastor, Rev. E.D. Kelley, asisted (sic) by his former pastor, Rev. W.R. Coile of Winterville, interment following in Watkinsville cemetery.
The following pals and old schoolmates tenderly bore all that was mortal of their beloved comrade to his last resting place: Bruce McRee, Harold Elder, Carlton Downs, Joe Boyd McRee, Tom Murray Veale and Albert C. Elder. The honorary escort was composed of college chums and older friends, as follows: Everett Mongomery, J.H. Patman, Roy Carroll, Jimmie Crowder, Roy Crowley and Warren Downs. Surviving the deceased are his parents, Mr. And Mrs. E.B. Wells, Watkinsville,; six sisters, Mrs. E W Coile, Arnoldsville: Mesdames W H Hodges, Jr., and H T Hodges, Watkinsville; Miss Grace Wells, Greenville, S.C.; Misses Emily and Blanch Wells, Watkinsville; five brothers, B.R. Wells, Meridian, Miss.; Messrs. O.R., Hoyt, Eugene and Billy Wells of Watkinsville
"B.D.," as he was affectionately known to loved ones and friends, was a young man of stealing character, lovable nature and fascinating manners. By dent of pleasing personality, indefatigable spirit and lofty ambition, he was making his way thru the School of Technology, after graduation in the high school here, and no young man ever attending this noted institution had made and retained more friends than he in a like brief period of time.
Just facing life's threshold, with the world before him and every promise that he would use his time and talent for the good of all, death's icy fingers closed his eyelids still and to human understanding it seems unduly pathetic that his bright youth should be so cut down in life's morning, but the All-Seeing One moves in mysterious way His wonders to perform and no one knows but God the purpose of his removal from loved ones and friends.
But in the bye-and-bye time of the afterwhile, when all of us come to the end of a perfect day, these now inexplainable providences will stand revealed in the light of eternity's noonday sun and all can and will rejoice together in glad acclaim in a world that knows no sorrow and no pain. If words could comfort bleeding hearts, there would then be no tears at death's inexorable entrance ever, but time alone can cure such heartaches, and in tenderest manner may the great God of the Universe comfort and console those now dwelling in clouds of gloom because of the passing of one they so much loved and adored.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 22, 1926

Commissioner Warren Dies Suddenly Friday
Mr. William C. Warren, age 52, died rather suddenly at his home in Eastville about 10 o'clock last Friday morning. He had worked the day previous and was taken ill early Friday morning, paralysis ensuing, from which he survived only a few hours after being strickened.
Probably the largest crowd to ever attend a funeral in that section assembled at Ray Sunday afternoon to do honor to the memory of the deceased. Rev. W.F. Lunsford conducting the services, after which interment followed in the churchyard.
Surviving Mr. Warren are his wife and two daughters, Miss Lillie May Warren and Mrs. Charlie May Jones, and quite a number of less close relatives and just thousands of friends throughout this entire section of the state.
Mr. Warren was an associate member of the county board of roads and revenue and to this trust he brought constant thought and high-mindedness in the discharge of every duty. Privately and publicly he was known and honored for his true worth and in his going away Oconee has lost one of her best citizens.
To his grief-stricken widow and other loved ones the sympathy of all is extended in fullest measure.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 22, 1926

Mrs. S.M. Wellborn Dies Last Saturday
After a brief illness, Mrs. Silas M. Wellborn, age 74, died at her home near Bethabara last Saturday and her remains were interred in the Bethabara cemetery last Sunday morning.
Our sincere sympathy is with those who grieve over the death of this good woman.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 22, 1926
Page 5

Sudden Death of Mell McRee Cast Pall of Sadness Over All
Going to his store early Saturday morning, October 9, as had been his custom for years past, cleaning up the lamps and store in preparation for the day's business, Mr. Mell McRee, age 52, one of the most universally liked and respected of all our citizens, was suddenly seized with a heart attack so severe in nature that he would not wait his physician to come back to the store to try and relieve him and walked from his place of business to Dr. Smith's office in the Ashford building. Hardly had he seated himself before he fell forward to the floor and expired before aid could be rendered him. The shock of his death well-nigh paralyzed his loved ones and the entire community, coming as it did as a bold from a clear sky, and the hearts of all were saddened beyond measure at the passing of this exemplary man and citizen.
Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon, October 10th, from the Watkinsville Methodist church, his pastor, Rev. W.F. Lunsford, conducting the last sad rites in feeling manner, interment following in Johnson church cemetery among other loved ones who had preceded him to the better land. Nephews and cousins, Billie Veale, Carlton McRee, Milton McRee, Parks McRee, Bruce McRee and Leonard McRee, acted as pallbearers.
Besides his heartbroken widow and real helpmeet for these many years, Mr. McRee is survived by two little daughters, Elizabeth and Clara Mell McRee, and innumerable other close relatives; one sister, Mrs. Emmett Robison; three brothers, B.R. McRee and J.O. McRee of our community, and Ernest McRee of Huntsville, Ala.
Quiet, unassuming in manner, honorable and four-square in all his dealing with his fellowman, the same day in and day out, Georgia had not a better citizen than Mell McRee and we can ill-afford to lose such strong characters. So close does he seem to the writer that words fail us when we weakly attempt to portray his real worth to the community in which he numbered every living soul, young and old, as a friend. Such men need no eulogy, for his every-day life is indelibly written upon the hearts of his associates, far more enduring than tales told in granite, and his example will live forever in the bosoms of those with whom he came in daily contact and knew and loved him for his true worth.
Nothing that we may say now will heal the wounds of sorrow in the hearts of his loved ones, but it must be consoling in a large measure for them to realize the prceless (sic) heritage of a life so well-spent left them by husband and daddy, and to know that the treasured hope is held out to them to some day, somewhere, meet him again, if they continue to follow the crystal trail laid out by him during his all too brief sojourn in this vale of tears.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 22, 1926
Page 5

Wilson Lumpkin Biggs is Laid to Final Rest
Liking just five days of attaining the ripe old age of eighty-eight years Mr. Wilson Lumpkin Biggs, after a three weeks illness during which he received the best of care and attention, on last Friday night, about 11 o'clock, passed from this life into the vast unknown. Like the snuffing out of a candle the feeble spark of his life went out gently as a swaying zephyr and he ejoined (sic) the gray-clad hosts of the old Forty-Fourth Georgia Regiment, Captain Samuel Lumpkin commanding, who are bivouacked on fame's eternal camping ground.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.F. Lunsford from Johnson church last Saturday afternoon and all that was mortal of the old veteran was gently lowered to its final resting place beside his mother and other relatives in the churchyard.
"Judge" or "Rabbi," as he was familiarly known to us all, had been a resident of Oconee all his long life, except the four years he gallantly served under the stars and bars in old Virginia, and since 1907 has been a resident of Watkinsville, where, he will be greatly missed by every one, as he had been fixed in the minds of all as a landmark for these many years.
In former days he was regarded as an exceptionally good farmer and up to the last he seemingly exulted in planting and working the garden spots and seeing things thrive and grow.
Not many more of the old soldiers are left and we should all the more honor them in their final days, as time at best for them is not long until they, too, will be gathered unto their fathers.


Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 22, 1926
Page 5

Miss Mollie Willoughby Answers Final Summons
Miss Mollie Willoughby, age 60, after a long illness, died Wednesday of last week at the home of her brother, Mr. Charlie Willoughby, with whom she had made her home in the Goshen neighborhood of our county. Of the immediate relatives only a brother, Mr. C.D. Willoughby, and a sister, Mrs. Belle Anderson, survive her, besides numerous other relatives and just worlds of friends.
Her remains were interred in Antioch cemetery last Thursday, Rev. E.L. Shelnutt, of Winder, conducting the services in the presence of a large concourse of sorrowing loved ones and friends.
"Miss Mollie" loved her church and in her community she will be sorely missed from the councils of those standing for community uplift and right-living, and with hundreds we mourn the passing of this good woman.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, October 22, 1926
Page 5

Mrs. W.C. Norris is Buried at Mars Hill
Mrs. Johanna V. Norris, age 74, died at her home in Mars Hill on October 12th after an illness of four weeks. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday afternoon by Rev. S.R. Grubb, of Athens, assisted by Rev. John H. Wood of Winder, interment following in Mars Hill cemetery. She was a member of Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist church.
Mrs. Norris is survived by her husband, W.C. (Dad) Norris; three daughters, Mrs. Lizzie Flanagan, Mrs. R.F. Christian, Miss Bert Norris; five sons, Messrs. W J, J M, J W, O D and F M Norris; one brother, Mr. Jas. W. Daniell; thirty-eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren, and numerous other relatives. She had been married fifty-six years.
We greatly sympathize with the family of this noble soul in their present great sorrow.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, November 12 1926
Page One

Zara Barton Middlebrooks
Mr. Zara Barton Middlebrooks, in his ninetieth year, having been born on October 9, 1837, died Thursday, November 4th, at his home in Farmington, following a long illness. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. B.F. Elliott of Athens, from the Baptist church, of which the deceased had long been a faithful adherent, Saturday morning last at 11 o'clock, interment following in the nearby cemetery with Masonic honors by his old lodge, Amity, of Watkinsville.
Mr. Middlebrooks is survived by four daughters, Mrs. W.A. Zuber, Farmington; Mrs. Mary E. Haygood, Athens; Mrs. W.E. Bugg, Ft. Myers, Fla.; Mrs. E.M. Callaway, Oteen, N.C.; two sons, Messrs. J.H. Middlebrooks, Farmington, and J.B. Middlebrooks, Hull.
The deceased was a gallant soldier during the sixties, being an original member of Clarke Rifles, Captain Isaac S. Vincent commanding, Third Georgia regiment. He was a good citizen and highly thought of wherever known.
We, in common with hundreds, mourn with those in sorrow at the passing of this good man.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, December 10, 1926
Page One

Mrs. Lovern Passes Away
Mrs. J.O. Lovern died at her home in Bishop Thursday morning, Dec. 9, at 9 o'clock. Funeral services will be held at Bishop Methodist church this morning at 11 o'clock, conducted by her pastor, Rev. J.A. Langford, assisted by Rev. B.P. Read, of Athens, and Rev. E.D. Kelley, also of Athens, interment following at High Shoals Methodist churchyard.
Mrs. Genie Adams Lovern is survived by her husband and the following children; Mrs. Paul Wood, of Atlanta; Mrs. Roger Stone, of Adairsville; Glenn, Chessel, Johnnie, Elizabeth, Sibley, Jurelle and Billie, all of Bishop.



Oconee Enterprise
Friday, December 10, 1926
Page One

Buster, 16 Year Old Son of Ernest Jennings Dead
The Georgia relatives and friends of Rev. and Mrs. Ernest Jennings, the former a native of our county, and at one time pastor of the local Baptist church, will regret beyond measure to know that their son Buster, after four weeks illness of typhoid fever, passed away at Bradenton, Fla., where his father is the beloved pastor of the First Baptist church, December 1st, and was laid to rest on December 2, at Bradenton, following largely attended funeral rites.
In writing to friends, Mr. Jennings said that Buster "loved Florida and was laid away in a steel vault and should decision be reached later to do so, he will be brought back home and laid to rest in his native soil.