History of the Restoration Movement

This file contains a list of the obituaries that appeared in the Gospel Advocate from 1855-2006. See main page for more information. The listings on this page are not in alphabetical order. Therefore, to locate click "File," then "Search" to locate the persons on this page. This page contains a list of those whose last name begins with

S

Spain, Robert Carl

Dr. Robert Carl Spain, 73, Abilene Christian University Bible professor emeritus and director of ACUs preacher placement service, died Dec. 21 at his home in Abilene, Texas.

Spain was born in Chattanooga, Tenn. He attended school in Opelika, Ala., and graduated from David Lipscomb University in 1936 and ACU in 1938. He received his masters degree and another bachelors degree from Southern Methodist University in 1946. In 1963, he received his doctorate of theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth.

He joined the ACU faculty in 1954 after teaching at Harding University and holding the Bible Chair at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. He also served churches in Paducah, Handley, Irving, Lubbock and Houston, Texas; Auburn, Ala.; and Searcy, Ark., before going to ACU.

He received 20th Century Christian magazines Christian Educator of the Year Award in 1978 and was a staff writer for the magazine for 30 years. He was to have received the Award in Christian Communication for 20th Century Christian this month.

Spain was elected president of the Southwest Regional Chapter of the American Academy of Religion in 1969 and also served on the board of directors of the national academy. He also made evangelical trips to Europe, Russia, South America and Central America.

Spain also was known as a pioneer in the campus ministry movement and a courageous speaker against racial segregation in the church and in the Christian college system.

He was a member of the Minter Lane Church of Christ.

Spain is survived by his wife, Mildred McClung Spain of Abilene; two daughters, Carla Trammell and Claudette Rogers, both of Houston; two sisters, Lorene McCartney of Tampa, Fla., and Elaine Spain Gay of Opelika, Ala.; and three grandchildren.

Funeral services were at Hillcrest Church of Christ Dec. 24. Burial was at Elmwood Memorial Park with Clifton Rogers officiating, and was directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.

Gospel Advocate, February, 1991, page 49.

Spangler, Bessie Smith

On September 9, 1907, at 2:30 P.M., the home of J. B. Spangler was shrouded in gloom, when the loving spirit of his beloved wife, Bessie, gently and quietly passed away. Bessie Smith Spangler was born in 1875, near Newburg, Franklin County, Ala. She was baptized into Christ in 1894 by Brother T. B. Larimore, and continued faithful into the end. She was married to J. B. Spangler in January, 1895, with whom she lived happy and devoted until death separated them. She was in ill health for several months. Mr. Spangler carried her out West, thinking perhaps the change of climate might enable him to keep her with him a while longer; but he met with very little encouragement from the leading physicians, and with a sad heart he returned home with her, where her anxious mother and sisters could assist him in administering to her last wants and wishes. Everything that loving hearts and willing hands could do was done. She was cheerful and the very embodiment of patience through all her illness. She was a devoted wife; a loving, indulgent mother; and a good neighbor. A touching an appropriate funeral service was conducted at the residence by Brother Holland, of New Decatur, Ala., after which her body was laid away at Courtland Cemetery.

One Who Loved Her.

Gospel Advocate, October 31, 1907, page 698.

Spann, Gertrude Boyce

Funeral services for Mrs. Gertrude Boyce Spann, Hohenwald, Tenn., wife of R. C. Spann, elder of church of Christ was held October 17 at McDonald Funeral Home. Services were conducted by Roy Arnold and Sonny Pollock.

Sister Spann died October 15 in Nashville after having surgery.

She was the daughter of the late W. H. and Maggie Galloway Boyce, born at Flat Woods, Tenn., Perry County, March 27, 1904. She was 72 at the time of her passing.

Gertrude Boyce and R. C. Spann were baptized by H. Leo Boles in 1920 in Riverside, Tenn. Gertrude Boyce and R. C. Spann were united in marriage by H. N. Mann on February 4, 1922. They were privileged to have fifty-four years of Christian companionship. To this union were born three lovely daughters: Willodean Spann Sales, Edwina Spann Milan, Emma Jean Spann Dyer; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

In their early years they moved to Dover, Ohio. There being no church of Christ near, they met for worship in their home with A. B. Gunter, a minister. Brother and Sister Herbie DeFoe, Brother and Sister Ellis Rochell and Brother and Sister Ed Craig held services in the Spann home.

Brother Gunter was the father of Carlos Gunter, now minister of the Springer church of Christ, Hohenwald. Upon Brother and Sister Spanns return to Hohenwald they helped to establish a church at Gordonsburg, Tenn.

R. C. Spann has been an elder in Hohenwald church of Christ since 1947. They were honored on their fiftieth wedding anniversary by their daughters.

The beautiful flowers and the many who came from out of town was an expression of their love and esteem for Sister Spann. The objects of her affection were her Lord, the church, her family, little children and the elderly.

Sister Spann was laid to rest in the Swiss Cemetery.

Era Humphrey Williams.

Gospel Advocate, January 6, 1977, page 14.

Sparkman, C. N.

Brother C. N. Sparkman was born in Boston, Tenn., November 22, 1859, and died at his home near Poplar Bluff, Mo., May 21, 1927. He was married to Miss Alice Eckeberger, of Mount Hope, Ala., June 10, 1886. To this union were born three children, now mature men and women, who, with Sister Sparkman, are left to mourn the loss of husband and father. Brother Sparkman obeyed the gospel at the age of eighteen years, and lived a consecrated Christian life till death. He spent three years in school under Brother T. B. Larimore at Mars Hill, Ala., and one year at Lexington, Ky. In early manhood he became an active preacher of the gospel, and for a number of years he preached steadily and successfully. In later years throat trouble prevented his doing much public speaking. He spent the last twenty-five or thirty years of his life near Poplar Bluff, where he was a great help in the work of the Lord and a man of much influence in material affairs. The writer conducted funeral services at Green Forest, his home church, after which the body was laid to rest in a neighboring cemetery. Truly, a good man has gone.

David Thompson.

Gospel Advocate, July 14, 1927, page 667.

Sparkman, Emma V. Kerr

Miss Emma V. Kerr was born in Bradley County, Tenn., on March 28, 1856. She moved to Texas with her parents in 1876. She was married to A. J. Sparkman on January 15, 1882. To this union seven children were born, of whom five are livingone daughter and four sons: two daughters are dead. Brother Sparkman died on November 2, 1899. At the time of his death all the children were alive. Sister Sparkman was almost an invalid at the time of his death, but continued to keep the family home at Era, Cooke County, Texas, until her death. For the last seven or eight years she had been almost helpless, but she was always cheerful and patient. This writer visited her many times, and she always enjoyed talking about the affairs of the Masters kingdom. She obeyed the gospel about thirty years ago, and in her declining years the Bible was her chief book. She read it daily and could talk on any subject of scripture teaching. Her children all obeyed the gospel, and she has some grandchildren who are also Christians. Her home was a favorite place for many good friends to meet, and her wise counsel in the affairs of life and her good teaching of the Masters kingdom will be missed by those who knew her. She died on September 16, 1917, and was buried in the Era cemetery. An earnest, faithful, Christian woman has passed through the valley of the shadow of death, but her deeds will live until the end of time and be reckoned in eternity.

A. W. Young.

Gospel Advocate, January 17, 1918, page 67.

Sparkman, Ida

Entered into rest on the morning of the 19th of February the gentle spirit of Ida Sparkman, wife of J. S. W. Sparkman. Daughter of James and Sue Shellie, aged about 19 years. She obeyed the gospel under the teaching of Bro. N. C. Sparkman in 1885, was married to J. S. W. Sparkman October 12, 1886. As a daughter Ida was thoughtful and obedient, as a sister kind and loving, as a wife, true and noble.

When we gather around the cold form of a loved one who has lived through the rosy hours of youth, battled with the cares of middle life and fallen mid the frosts of a happy old age, we cannot then keep back the falling tear, but oh, when we are called upon to bow around the bedside of one whose life has just begun and see the eye that once beamed with hope, love and joy grow dim neath the cold touch of death, our weary souls send forth a wail of anguish which cannot be hushed. It was thus we felt when we saw our dear friend, Ida, must sink so early into the silent tomb. However, these dear relatives who are called upon to pass through the shadowy vale of affliction, sorrow not as those who have no hope.

Hattie E. Beech.

Gospel Advocate, March 21, 1888, page 10.

Sparkman, James T.

On Tuesday night, June 28, 1893, at half-past ten oclock, the subject of this sketch, Brother Jas. T. Sparkman, died, aged 56 years, 10 months, and 12 days. He was a member of the church about thirty-eight years, being baptized by Brother G. W. Cone Dec. 16, 1855. For twenty-six years he was secretary and treasurer of the Leipers Fork congregation, superintendent of the Sunday-school since its organization several years ago, and for a long time elder of the congregation. He was twice married. His last wife departed this life over a year ago. He leaves three children, two of whom, a boy and a girl, are young, and must look to others for fatherly protection and motherly love. For a long time he had been a sufferer, but he bore all his sufferings with that patience and fortitude which characterize the Christian. We have no desire to pass unmerited eulogies on our brother, but will say, he relied with fullest confidence upon the word of God for directions in the discharge of his duty. With mingled feelings of regret and sadness we unite in paying a humble and earnest tribute of respect to his memory. Therefore be it resolved1. That in Brother Sparkman our country has lost a good citizen, the family a kind and affectionate father, and the congregation one of its most valued workers. 2. That our Sunday-school will miss him, and that his place as superintendent can not easily be filled, and that we commend his life to the school as a good example. 3. That we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family, and would ask all to imitate his example of daily duty. 4. That these resolutions be recorded in the minutes of the Sunday-school, and that a copy of the same be furnished our county paper, the Review-appeal, and the Gospel Advocate for publication. Done by order of the elders.

Joe Carl, S. S. Hughes, Z. A. McConico., Committee.

Gospel Advocate, July 27, 1893, page 476.

Sparkman, John Williams

John Williams Sparkman was born in Maury County, Tenn., on February 3, 1835. Cancer of the face and old age were the cause of his death. His father was James Coleman Sparkman; his mother, Louise Roundtree Sparkman. When two years old they moved to Lawrence County, then to Wayne County when quite a young man, that being his home when not away teaching or otherwise making a living. On December 21, 1870, he was married to Mary Catherine Crook, of West Tennessee. The wife and two sonsThomas and John W. Sparkmansurvive him. The former lived with him; the later, whose home is at Birmingham, Ala., came in time to see his remains laid to rest. He united with the church in 1867, being baptized by Brother Lock. In September, 1896, he united with the congregation at Lexington, Tenn., and remained a member of that church until his death, being ever faithful to the cause he had espoused.

His Wife.

Gospel Advocate, July 15, 1909, page 886.

Sparkman, Lucy

Died, at Leipers Fork, Tenn., Mrs. Lucy Sparkman, aged fifty years, nine months, and twenty days. Her death was not unexpected, for she had long been an invalid and a sufferer. Nevertheless, her death was a source of sincere regret to all her friends. Having been born within less than a mile of the place of her death, and having lived most of her life in the immediate vicinity of Leipers Fork, she was well known to almost every one of the large crowd which attended her funeral at the church, Monday, March 30, 1896. No wonder on that occasion so many cheeks were bathed in tears, when for the last time they would see her who had been a genuine, good Christian woman, a friend of the poor, many of whom will rise up to call her blessed. Having become a member of the body of Christ early in life, for over thirty years she fought its battles. She was the daughter of William Cummins, and was living in Franklin when the memorable battle was fought there. On Sept. 21, 1866, she was there married to Dr. Seth C. Sparkman. It was a happy marriage, and happily they lived together till June 12, 1890, when he passed over the river before her, leaving her a son and a daughter to mourn his death; and now she follows on, leaving son and daughter, grown to manhood and womanhood, to fight the battles of life. Her life and her labors were such as should inspire them and all of us with the hope of meeting her again, where sickness, sorrow, pain, and death are feared and felt no more.

James E. Scobey.

Gospel Advocate, June 25, 1896, page 413.

Sparkman, Margrett Anna

Margrett Anna Sparkman was born on June 19, 1862; obeyed the gospel at the age of twelve years, at Boston, Tenn., under the preaching of Brother Frank Davis; was married to Brother Tolbert Sparkman on January 14, 1883; and died on April 28, 1909. She leaves a loving husband, four sons, one daughter, a mother, two brothers, and one sister. Sister Sparkman was faithful in discharging her Christian duty. I was in her home often, talked with her about the city that God has prepared for his dear children, and she said that was the home she was battling for. So we can say to husband, children, mother, sister, and brother; Dry up your tears; your loss is her gain. She has gone from a world of trouble to forever rest from labor. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea. Saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them. (Rev. 14:13.) Weep not as those who have no hope. Your loved one is in the hand of God. She is away from the ills and cares of this troublesome world. She cannot come to you, but you can go to her. So do your whole duty and you have the promise of meeting her where parting is unknown, where God wipes away all tears. Sister Sparkmans remains were laid away in the cemetery on Catheys Creek, by the side of Otis Sparkman, her son. The writer conducted the funeral services.

W. R. Spivy.

Gospel Advocate, December 9, 1909, page 1558.

Sparkman, Mary Ethel

Mary Ethel Sparkman, 82, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., died Sept. 10 at AMI Lucy Lee Hospital. She had been a resident of Bluff Manor Nursing Center for two years and was a lifelong resident of Butler County. Mrs. Sparkman was a member of Highland Drive Church of Christ.

She was married to Luther Mayberry from 1929 until his death, and to Leslie Sparkman, who died in 1967.

She is survived by two daughters, Wanda Rudat and Ruby Ann Mayberry, both of Houston; two stepsons, James L. Sparkman of OFallon, Mo., and Lynn Eugene of Hazelwood; five stepdaughters, Glenda Anderson of Nashville, Nancy Booher of Quinlan, Texas, Lillian Griffey of Crestwood, Maxine Sewell of Columbia, and Anna Mae Miller of Fisk; 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lettie Dickey of Poplar Bluff and Elva Duffy of Atlanta.

Services were officiated by Ray Crawford. Burial was in Ash Hill Cemetery Sept. 13.

Gospel Advocate, October, 1990, page 55.

Sparkman, Samuel Thompson

Samuel Thompson Sparkman was born in Williamson County, Tenn., near Boston, and died at Brentwood on July 29, 1922, aged eighty-nine years, one month, and eighteen days. He is survived by his widow; two daughters, Mrs. Z. A. McConnico and Mrs. W. J. Rushton; and six grandchildren. He was the son of Seth Sparkman, who was known in all his county as a pioneer convert in the restoration begun by Barton W. Stone, the Campbells, and others. He was a devoted student of Gods word and knew what it taught. His sons and daughters, all of whom have now passed away, he reared in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and were strong in the faith. The subject of this sketch obeyed the gospel early in life and thenceforward lived the life of a Christian. He was married, on November 13, 1858, to Eliza Agnes Oakley. Brother Sparkman in the latter years of his life was somewhat of an invalid. He and his aged wife had the best of care from their children. His influence for good will yet be felt. Indeed, it were better for him to be absent from the body and present with the Lord. Suffice it to say that his reputation was that of a genuine Christian gentleman. His word was his bond. His integrity was never impeached, nor his honesty called in question. His life is worthy of emulation.

James E. Scobey.

Gospel Advocate, August 31, 1922, page 839.

Sparkman, Snow

On February 2, 1910, at Dade City, Fla., Sister Snow Sparkman closed her eyes for the silent slumber that knows no waking till the trumpet of the Lord shall sound. She was the daughter of Brother B. T. Beasley, of Williamson County, Tenn., and obeyed the gospel at Beasleys Chapel, near her childhood home. She was married to Brother W. A. Sparkman on April 1, 1897. In the presence of a large circle of sorrowing relatives and sympathizing friends her body was gently laid to rest in the cemetery at Dade City, the writer conducting the burial services. Her bereaved friends have the comforting assurance that they sorrow not as those who have no hope. Her life was one of constant, faithful, patient devotion in duty. Her reverential and worshipful spirit showed great confidence in her Savior. Her influence for good will be lasting. Many may profit by the example of her noble life and character of so much worth and merit, and yet so noticeable for unassuming modesty. Her friends and loved ones may find rich comfort in the sweet hope that, if faithful here, we shall meet beyond the river when our stormy voyage is over.

George B. Hoover.

Gospel Advocate, May 19, 1910, page 622.

Sparkman, Thomas W.

Thomas W. Sparkman was born June 14, 1812; died Dec. 21, 1896. He was born and lived his life in the same yard. Last April he lost his dwelling by fire. Since that time he has lived with his son, near by. He was the youngest son of William Sparkman, from whom he inherited the old homestead. He was never out of the State, and had been out of the county but few times. He was married, Sept. 23, 1840, to Delila Fitzgerald, who died in August, 1841. He was again married, March 16, 1863, to Nellie A. White. To this union twelve children were born, seven of whom still live. He was bereaved of this wife in August, 1879. Brother Sparkman obeyed the gospel some time in the thirties, under the preaching of my father, James C. Anderson. He lived a faithful servant of God for half a century, most of this time an elder in the congregation at Boston, Williamson County, Tenn. Another grand old soldier has laid his armor by, finished his course, kept the faith. May all who knew him follow his example for good, exhibit the same self-sacrifice and devotion, is my prayer, through Christ our Lord.

W. Anderson.

Gospel Advocate, January 28, 1897, page 60.

Sparkman, Thomas

On December 15 it was the lot of this writer to participate in a funeral which was in a personal sense the saddest and most tragic. The sadness and sense of tragedy lie in the loss to their family, the church, and the community of four persons who assuredly stood honored in the sight of God and man. On the preceding Lords day, December 11, after the family had worshiped according to their unvarying custom with the Green Forest Church, about four oclock a sudden tornado struck the home of Thomas and Gertrude Sparkman. The tornado and resulting fire took the lives of Brother Sparkman and their three daughtersAlice Lee, sixteen; Verna, Thirteen; and Vera, eight. All four were instantly killed. Sister Sparkman survived the ordeal, but was critically injured. She was saved only by virtue of the good work done by a man who set out to see if anyone could be aided after the tornado had passed, and pulled Sister Sparkman from the wreckage. Brother Sparkman was born at Boston, Tenn., October 19, 1897, the son of the late Charles N. (a well-known gospel preacher of his era in Middle Tennessee) and Alice E. Sparkman. He attended Freed-Hardeman College, where he became a Christian, and was married to Gertrude Gardner in 1923. They established themselves in Butler County, Mo., near Poplar Bluff, where they lived for the greater part of their married lives. Brother Sparkman was a rugged man, yet highly sensitive and kindly. Never have I known a man more ready to be helpful where there was need. He was a deacon in the congregation, loved and respected by all. Sister Sparkman is the soul of consideration and charitableness of spirit. This happy combination of Christian virtues carried over in all their children. I baptized Alice Lee in September, 1948. She was an honor student, coeditor of the high-school paper, buoyant and warm of disposition, and a Christian. Vera and Verna were also excellent students and charming children. Brother Sparkman is survived by his widow, two sons (Glenn of Cape Girardeau, Mo., and Carroll, who is a student in Harding College), two sisters (Mrs. Verna Haynes of St. Charles, Mo., and Mrs. Ila Brevard of Promise City, Iowa), and a host of other relatives and friends. Testimony to community esteem was the funeral crowd of near a thousand persons. The funeral sermon was preached by Harbert D. Hooker of Poplar Bluff, Mo.; L. H. Newell of Overland, Mo.; and the writer.

Vernon W. Smith.

Gospel Advocate, February 16, 1950, page 110.

Sparkman, William Thomas

William Thomas Sparkman was born May 7, 1833; died Jan. 19, 1897. In September, 1849, he was born into the kingdom of God, and was a member of the body of Christ for more than forty-seven years. The verdict of those who knew him best is that when he did wrong it was from ignorance of his duty. He was generally self-possessed, deliberate in his actions, and consequently scrupulously exact in his dealings. In 1854 he and Miss Margaret Trimble were united in marriage. To this union six children were born, all of whom save one son are married and in the church of Christ. These, together with the widowed mother and many relatives and friends, are left to mourn their loss. They are all comforted by the hope of meeting again. Brother Sparkman was from home a great deal during the later years of his life; he had for several years traveled considerably for Gospel Advocate Publishing Company, distributing tracts, books, Bibles, etc. He was from home when he died, at his elder sons, in Perry County. He left home the first Monday in January, was brought back the 21st, and on the 22d, in the presence of a vast assemblage of people, his body was placed in the family burying ground, to await the summons from on high. Brother Sparkman leaves to his family the heritage of an upright life, and a life of good examples for us all. Let us be cheered by the hope of meeting again.

W. Anderson., Carters Creek, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, February 18, 1897, page 109.

Sparks, Alta Dodd

Because of the loneliness caused by her absence, we mourn the death of Sister Whitt Sparks, of Haleyville, Ala.; still, we would not call her back, for our loss is her eternal gain. Sister Sparks was truly a Christian, and after she became too ill to attend the meetings of the church she found the most pleasure in reading her Bible and the Gospel Advocate; she taught her husband the way more perfectly and led him to obey the gospel. Alta Dodd, daughter of John and Elizabeth Dodd, was born on December 18, 1891. She was buried with her Lord in baptism in the summer of 1903. She was married to Whitt Sparks on December 25, 1908, to which union were born three sonsRufus, Mitchell, and Whitt, Jr. She had been in bad health for five years, and everything that loving and devoted hearts and hands could do was done to cure and to relieve pain. On January 21, 1924, the soul left the earthly body and returned to the Maker who gave it. On January 23 the writer conducted funeral services at the Haleyville church of Christ, where the parents, husband, three sons, two brothers, and many friends paid their last tribute before lovingly placing the remains in the tomb. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.

H. I. Copeland.

Gospel Advocate, February 28, 1924, page 213.

Sparks, Sarah Elizabeth Ezzell

Sarah Elizabeth Ezzell was born on August 29, 1854, in Franklin County, Ala., where she lived until she departed this life, April 28, 1917. She was married to C. C. Sparks on August 4, 1881, to which union were born five children, four of whom survive her. Besides her own children, she was stepmother to six other children, to whom she was always kind and affectionate, and was to them a mother indeed. She obeyed the gospel in 1897, being baptized by the lamented F. D. Srygley, and lived a consistent Christian life. May the Lord bless and comfort Brother Sparks and children in their sad bereavement.

R. N. Moody.

Gospel Advocate, May 24, 1917, page 515.

Spear, Humphrey

Humphrey Spear, son of Nancy Bates Spear, was born on July 11, 1828, in Guernsey County, O., and died on July 15, 1905, aged seventy-seven years and four days. He came to Owen County, Ind., in 1852, where he lived till death called him away. He was married to Melissa Keene on January 9, 1858. To this union were born six childrenMillard T., Elmer C., Eva, Lucy, Nancy M., and Ida. His wife and Millard preceded him to the tomb. Of recent years he made his home with his children. In early life he united with the church of Christ at Union, near his home, where he was truly a faithful servant of the Lord, never failing to meet on the first day of the week to break bread and to drink of the cup in memory of the Lord, unless a reasonable excuse kept him away. He was a deacon at Union for many years, being faithful to his charge. He was always ready to help the needy and distressed, and was cheerful and kind to everybody. He leaves four sisters, one son, four daughters, and many relatives and friends to mourn their loss. May the Lord reward him with a never fading crown of eternal glory. The funeral services were conducted by Elder R. R. Mannan, of Quincy, Ind.

Gospel Advocate, August 3, 1905, page 494.

Spear, Levi

On October 18, 1918, while engaged in his daily duties of life, Brother Levi Spear was very suddenly called into the beyond. He was a faithful Christian, a generous father, and a devoted husband. He was a daily reader of Gods word, closing the day by calling down the benedictions of God upon his home and family. He was ready at all times to administer unto the wants and necessities of the poor, a friend to the friendless, a very present help in time of trouble and sorrow. He will be greatly missed in his community by all with whom he was associated, but most by his dear, loving companion, to whom he was very much devoted. Brother Spear leaves a wife, ten children, and many friends and relatives to mourn his death, and we pray that all may emulate his worth. His remains were laid to rest in the Baily cemetery. Let us strive to meet him in the great beyond. Funeral services were conducted by the writer.

O. L. Carnahan.

Gospel Advocate, January 23, 1919, page 86.

Spear, Pamelia L.

On July 25, 1923, Sister Pamelia L. Spear came to the end of her pilgrimage here on earth. She was in her seventy-fourth year. She obeyed the gospel when fourteen years of age, and was one of the faithful ones in any community in which her lot was cast. She was married to Brother Samuel J. Spear in 1870. She was familiarly and affectionately known as Aunt P. in the community where she spent the latter part of her life. Her husband is a preacher of no mean ability. Her remains were laid to rest in the Spear Graveyard, near her old home, in the presence of a large gathering of relatives and friends. Words of comfort and encouragement were spoken by Brother O. L. Carnahan, of Moss, Tenn., and the writer. I would console her husband and all relations and friends, who are Christians, with the following scriptures: For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.

John H. Arms.

Gospel Advocate, January 10, 1924, page 40.

Spear, Zachary

It falls to my sad lot to note the departure of our beloved brother Zachary Spear. He was born Jan. 2, 1826; died Dec. 18, 1896. It is indeed sad to give up friends and loved ones to the irresistible claims of death, but it is a pleasure to do anything for them to make their last moments less painful, or to say anything that will comfort their friends who are left behind. Brother Spear obeyed the gospel, under the preaching of T. W. Spear, over twenty years ago. He was the father of nine children, of whom five preceded him in death. He leaves behind him a wife, two sons, and two daughters and many friends and relatives to mourn their loss; but we hope that their loss is his eternal gain. Take courage, sorrowing ones, and live devoted and consistent lives in Christ, and we will all meet in a world where parting shall be no more. We will erelong pass over the river of death, and enter the clime of bliss and joy.

Gospel Advocate, March 11, 1897, page 155.

Spears, Essie Tribble

Mrs. K. B. Spears, of Blevins, Ark., died at the Baptist Hospital in Little Rock, Ark., on November 19, 1929. She was forty-seven years, four months, and twenty-eight days old. Funeral services were held in Blevins, Brother Brooks Still officiating. The body was laid to rest in Macedonia Cemetery to await the resurrection morn. Sister Spears leaves a devoted Christian husband and five children, also a mother, four brothers, one sister, many other relatives, and a host of friends. For many years she was a member of the Methodist Church, but in the year 1914 she learned the way of the Lord more perfectly, obeyed the gospel, and became a member of the church of Christ. She was faithful in serving her Master as long as her health permitted and came to worship many times when she was not physically able. Although she wanted to stay longer with her family and friends, she was willing and ready to go to the home prepared for the faithful. Many gospel preachers have enjoyed the hospitality of her home in time past. Not only preachers were welcome in her home, but any one who chanced to go there always found an open door and a warm heart to give welcome and entertainment. For several years she had suffered from the terrible disease, inward cancer, but she bore her sufferings with remarkable patience. Sister Spears during her girlhood was Essie Tribble, of Blevins. In 1902 she married Kirb B. Spears, of Blevins. To this union were born six children, the first-born a son, dying in infancy. To us who are left to wait there is no doubt but that the latter life of Sister Spears was a journey to death, and a death a transport to life. May the Lord bless the bereaved, and may they be comforted by these words: Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.

Mrs. Pauline Wade.

Gospel Advocate, February 20, 1930, page 187.

Spears, J. Thomas

J. Thomas Spears, son of William and Amanda Spears, was born January 23, 1855, and quietly fell asleep in Jesus at his homeR.F.D. 1, Glasgow, Ky.February 8, 1932. Brother Spears was born again when twenty-six, under the preaching of Brother Rogers, Rich Pond, Ky. On September 15, 1893, he was married to Miss Mary Moss Chitwood, Coral Hill, Ky., who still remains at the old home waiting the summons to cross over and join the great throng of the redeemed. Brother Spears was a nephew of E. G. and Jesse L. Sewell. He was a faithful Christian, a leader in his congregation at Beckton, Ky., and is much missed by an appreciative band of brethren. I made my home with him and his good wife two years while laboring there in meetings, and missed him so much this year. He would not leave his beloved companion even a day and night, nor would he miss one service of the church when able to be there. He died peacefully after months of patient suffering, leaving his beloved companion behind. Of Brother Spears we believe it may be said: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors: for their works follow with them.

R. C. White.

Gospel Advocate, November 2, 1933, page 1055.

Spears, Lucinda Cox

Lucinda Cox was born on July 25, 1835; obeyed the gospel at Greenwood, Wilson County, Tenn., in 1855; was married to R. R. spears on September 11, 1859; and died on September 14, 1908, at her home near Shop Springs. She spent fifty-three years in the service of the Lord as a member of the body worshiping at Bethel. While her husband and her nephews and nieces mourn their loss, we trust it is her eternal gain. Funeral services at the home and burial at the Green cemetery.

A. S. Derryberry.

Gospel Advocate, October 8, 1908, page 654.

Speegle, Oscar

Oscar Speegle, a most excellent young man and worthy Christian, died at the home of his father, at Ethridge, Tenn., on April 19, 1920, aged twenty-two years. Oscar had been in poor health for some time. His father took him West to prolong his life, if possible. When the young man saw the end approaching, he wanted to come back to his childhood home and die among the people that knew him best and loved him most. His wants were all supplied by tender hands and loving hearts, and he died happy in the Lord. Funeral at the home by the writer. His body now rests by the side of his mothers grave in the Kidd graveyard. We sympathize with the bereaved in their loss, which we believe to be his gain.

T. C. King.

Gospel Advocate, May 20, 1920, page 510.

Speer, Asa H.

Dr. Asa H. Speer was born at Holly, Texas, February 18, 1876, and passed away at Corpus Christi, Texas, October 21, 1937. He is survived by his widow, two sons, one daughter, one granddaughter, his mother, and four brothers. He became obedient to the truth at the early age of seventeen years. He began preaching in early manhood. He conducted many meetings in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, during which time he baptized many into Christ. He preached his last sermon at Shreveport, La., September 19, 1937, at which time he baptized his son-in-law, Earnest Millen. Dr. Speer received his M.D. degree from the University of Tennessee in 1902. He later did postgraduate work in the University of Texas and at Tulane University at New Orleans. After his graduation he began his practice at Madisonville, Texas. He later moved to Houston, and then to Corpus Christi in 1923, where he continued the general practice until about four years ago, at which time he confined himself to office practice only. He was a friend to man, and did much charity practice in an effort to relieve suffering humanity. During the last several years of his life he was especially devoted to the church, and would often leave his practice and conduct revival meetings. It was in one of these meetings in the State of Louisiana that the writer first met Dr. Speer. From our earliest acquaintance there was formed a tie of friendship, which continued to grow stronger and stronger until the end came. It was on his recommendation that I was invited to the work as local minister of Central congregation in Corpus Christi. During our association in the work I have had occasion to know him intimately, and am glad to say that I have never known a man who seemed more devoted to the cause of the Master. He was a close student of human nature. He understood humanity. He was a wonderful counselor, and seemed never to tire in his effort to do good.

Lee Starnes.

Gospel Advocate, December 30, 1937, page 1239.

Speer, Enola Louise Rucker

Enola Louise Rucker Speer, 89, died April 8.

Her husband, Philip G. Speer, who died in 1966, served as minister for congregations in Tennessee, Georgia and Mississippi.

Willard Collins, president emeritus of Lipscomb University, was one of Speers student workers, when she was librarian at Lipscomb in the 1930s. She taught at Tolbert Fanning Orphans Home and at elementary schools in Tennessee and Georgia. She was librarian at Freed-Hardeman University before retirement.

She was a member of the Granny White Church of Christ in Nashville.

She is survived by two daughters, Elaine VanSteenberg and Sherrilyn Johnson; two sons, Phillip and Wayne; one brother, John Rucker; 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Nashville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, June, 1999, page 45.

Speer, Ephraim A.

Brother Ephraim A. Speer, M.D., son of Joshua K. Speer, one of our pioneer preachers, died at his home near Readyville, Rutherford County, Tenn., on July 18, 1906. He was born on August 7, 1838. Brother Speer served as a surgeon in the Confederate Army four years. He was an elder in the New Hope church of Christ, near Readyville. He was always, when able, at his post of duty. His influence was felt for good throughout the community in which he lived. He was a man of few words, but of very deep and sober thoughts. Three of his favorite sayings were: Let the stars fall rather than apply for divorce; If I could know that my children would tell the truth, always the truth, just the truth, only the truth, I would be satisfied; A true man is always trying to be honest in act, in word, and in thought. I will always be thankful that I was blessed by being thrown with Brother Speer during his life. His influence has encouraged me no little. That he was a true soldier, a faithful Christian, a devoted father and husband, I have not one doubt. The last time I ever talked with him his leading thought was in behalf of the best interest of the congregation of which he was an elder. Those who survive him have my deepest sympathy. They, however, should remember that their loss is heavens gain. They have every reason to be hopeful of meeting him in the Sweet by and by, if they will only be faithful. May God ever bless his and all the bereaved of the earth.

S. H. Hall., Atlanta, Ga.

Gospel Advocate, February 14, 1907, page 108.

Speer, Levi

Bro. Levi Speer was born and reared in Houston Co., Texas and died near Lovelady, Texas Jan. 5, 1893, being 37 years 5 months and 27 days old. He obeyed the gospel in the year 1874 and was baptized by Bro. H. H. Hamilton. He preached his first sermon in 1884 and continued a faithful expounder of Gods word until his death. Having grown up in a country where educational facilities were very unfavorable to a good education, especially in the days of rebellion when war was doing its ruinous work, he acquired a very limited English education, yet possessing wonderful native powers he became a great preacher. Many were convinced by his earnest appeals in presenting the claims of the gospel of Christ. As a debater, he was often spoken of as a natural giant. While he was kind and courteous to his opponent he was uncompromising in contending for the faith once delivered to the saints. But his noble work is ended, the battle is fought, the victory is won and he is crowned at last. No eulogy from me could portray the grandeur of his reward as he sweeps through the pearly gates into the city and Jesus presents to him the crown of glory saying, Well done, thou good and faithful servant you suffered with me; now you shall reign with me. He was a good soldier and willingly endured hardnesses for his Masters cause. Although younger than myself, he was in Christ before I was, and as I left the smoke and fog of Babylon he greatly assisted me in coming to the true light. He took me by the hand and I made the good confession before many witnesses and was baptized by him and I will ever follow him as he followed Christ. When his time came he was ready to go. He told his sorrowing wife that he must cross the Jordon but said that all was well; and now may that Christ who once himself had sorrow, and can be touched by the feeling of our infirmity comfort and sustain his heart broken wife and children.

J. W. Brice., Rogers Prairie, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, April 20, 1893, page 253.

Speer, Lizzie Manson

Mrs. Lizzie Manson Speer, wife of Levi Speer, was born January 22, 1858; died September 10, 1938, at her home at 3919 Harrisburg Boulevard, Houston, Texas. She was seven months and eighteen days past eighty years old when she departed from this life. She was married to Levi Speer on July 2, 1874, near the age of seventeen. To this union nine sons were born. Three died in infancy, one at fourteen years of age, and the eldest, Dr. Asa, a gospel preacher, passed away October 20, 1937, at his home in Corpus Christi. She is survived by four sons (Sterling, Levi, Woody, and Dr. Glover Speer, all of Houston), three nieces, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. One granddaughter (Mrs. Ione Millen) lived with Granny several years and tenderly cared for her. No doubt she will miss this beloved soul as much as any who mourn her departure. Sister Speer and her husband were baptized into the church of Christ soon after their marriage. Shortly thereafter her husband began preaching the gospel, and was a very able and active minister for seventeen years. Death took him at the early age of thirty-seven. Granny, as she was best known, lived a faithful, consecrated life, spending more than sixty-three years in the service of her Lord. She was a good Bible student, and never missed a service at church if able to go. The funeral was conducted in the church at 118 Milby Street in the presence of a large audience of friends and relatives. W. A. Bentley and Raymond T. Towery conducted the funeral. Six gospel preachers acted as pallbearers. She was laid to rest in Forest Park Cemetery.

William A. Bentley., 1407 Fairview, Houston, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, February 16, 1939, page 167.

Speer, Otis

Brother Otis Speer was born in Houston County, Texas, on November 10, 1887, and died on January 9, 1910, of pneumonia. Brother Speer was the youngest son of Brother and Sister B. J. and Eliza Speer. He was born againborn of water and of the Spiritin 1907, during a meeting held by Brother J. P. Nall, and was led from then on until death by the Spirit. For the last twelve months of his life he was a close student of the Bible, and made rapid advancement in the knowledge of Gods way and in the work and worship of the church. While he spent such a short term of service in the Masters vineyard, yet we believe he accomplished the true aim of lifelived so as to gain an abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The writer was called on to hold services at his burial, and we found consolation when we examined the basis of his hope, which was Christ, and faithful, loving obedience to his expressed will. To his faithful, Christian mother, his sisters and brothers, who are all members of the church of Christ, I would say: Be faithful until death, and some day you will meet your loved ones and receive a fadeless crown of life.

John L. Straughan.

Gospel Advocate, April 7, 1910, page 438.

Speer, Phillip Glover

Phillip Glover Speer passed away suddenly at his home in Nashville, Tenn., March 22, 1966. His was an illustrious career in the Lords kingdom. His preaching spanned more than thirty years and included the starting of congregations, gospel meetings, mission work in the Northeast and teaching in one of our Christian schools. At the time of his death he was working with the church at LaVergne, Tenn., and teaching in the William County public schools.

Brother Speer did not just preach about Christ, he put Christianity into action daily. Untiring service to others and a warm smile characterized his life. He will be remembered as a courageous man who had love for the Masters word, and a determination not to be compromise it.

He continues to live in the lives of hundreds of others whom he influenced for good. He is survived by his wife, Enola; his mother, Mrs. Anna Hobart of Madisonville, Texas and four children who are all active members of the Lords church: Philip L. of Abilene, Texas; R. Wayne of Nashville, Tenn.; Mrs. Larry W. VanSteenberg of Pittsburgh, Penn., and Mrs. Nathan Burch Tucker, III of Memphis, Tennessee.

Services were conducted by Charles Chumley, Buford Holt and Charles Tarkington in Nashville. Burial was in the Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Nashville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, May 12, 1966, page 303.

Speer, William Sheppard

William Sheppard Speer, son of Joshua K. Speer, was born in Williamson County, Tenn., October 6, 1822, and died in the home of his only daughter, Mrs. N. D. McGinley, 618 East Oklahoma Avenue, Guthrie, Okla., at one oclock, Friday, August 20, 1915, aged nearly ninety-three years. In his youthful days he was a very great student, acquired a fine literary education, and developed into a fine teacher. On the third Lords day in September, 1843, he was ordained by the leaders of New Hope church of Christ, near Middleton, Hardeman County, Tenn. to preach the gospel, which position he faithfully held to the end of his life in this world. He was married in Giles County, Tenn., to Miss Mary Ann Nance, daughter of Col. Joseph Nance. To this union were born Charles A., Alex. C., Henry C., and Mary Phebe, the only daughter. In order to prepare more fully to preach, he moved to Bethany College, Brooke County, W. Va., and studied under Alexander Campbell two years (1846, 1847). On May 12, 1852, his wife died and was buried at Williamsport, Maury County, Tenn., aged twenty-nine years. He remained a widower till his death. He was appointed United States Consul to Africa by President Lincoln, which term he served two years (1862, 1863). He was at various times editor of different papers and was author of several books. And in 1880-1882 he compiled an Encyclopedia of the New West. He also published a very valuable book, entitled The Law of Success. He was also professor of astronomy and higher mathematics in a number of colleges. He was an eloquent orator, a fine lecturer, fine home company, and a most excellent Christian gentleman. The world is in need of many such as he. But death takes all, both good and evil.

A. A. Rose.

Gospel Advocate, October 21, 1915, page 1068.

Speight, Lydia

Sister Lydia Speight was born, in Williamson County, Tenn., on January 1, 1830, and died on December 5, 1903. She obeyed the gospel, under the preaching of Brother James Anderson, about 1849, and, so far as I know, she was a consistent Christian during the remainder of her life. I can truthfully say that for the past twenty years she put forth her best energies to live as a Christian should live. She leaves a son, a daughter, and many relatives and friends to mourn her death. John says: Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.

G. T. Hale.

Gospel Advocate, January 7, 1904, page 10.

Speight, Mary Hooper

Services for Mrs. Mary Hooper Speight, 83 years, of Charlotte, Tenn., were held at Dickson Funeral Home, Dickson, Tenn., October 7. Burial was in Rock Church Cemetery. Robert Cullum officiated.

Mary Speight, whose husband, John B. Speight, passed away July 25, was the daughter of the late William R. and Margaret Nicks Hooper. She was a member of the church of Christ for seventy-odd years. She loved the Gospel Advocate and had read it over sixty years.

The objects of her affections were her Lord, the church, her family and little children. The beautiful flowers and the many people who came were an expression of their love.

Her survivors are two sons, William (Bill) Speight of Charlotte and John Berton Speight, Jr., of Memphis, Tenn., a grandson Bobby Speight of Charlotte, a granddaughter Alice Boyd Atterberry, and a great-grandson, Bo Atterberry of Decatur, Ill., three sisters, Mrs. Kate Downey, Mrs. Vina Mitchell, and Mrs. Lucy Petty, all of Dickson, Tenn.

Mrs. Vina Hooper Mitchell.

Gospel Advocate, May 12, 1977, page 302.

Spence, B. B.

Brother B. B. Spence was born on February 11, 1833; was married to Maximillie Patterson on March 20, 1859; obeyed the gospel in 1860, under the preaching of Brother Allen; departed this life on October 4, 1909. Funeral services were conducted by the writer, at the residence of the deceased, in the presence of a large concourse of people. He left seven children, his wife having preceded him to the spirit land a number of years ago.

J. W. Westbrooks., Link, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, October 28, 1909, page 1366.

Spence, Britton

Britton Spence born February 8, 1828, departed this life June 28, 1888. He was an earnest devoted member of the Church of Christ, having made the good confession under the preaching of Bro. Elisha Sewell September 1860. He had been married 31 years and 5 days, aged 60 years, 4 months and 20 days. Father of nine children, five of whom belong to the Church. He was one of the best citizens, good neighbor, kind father, loving husband, and true friend. In his death the Church suffers a great, and his family an irreparable loss. As a Christian he was steadfast and in his faith unshaken. He spoke of death calmly and said that he was ready to go. May God comfort his family in their loneliness and sorrow. May his upright life and peaceful death give assurance if they will follow Christ they shall meet him again in that land where parting is unknown.

J. S. Westbrooks.

Gospel Advocate, August 8, 1888, page 15.

Spence, Euseba

Death has entered the New Zion congregation and moved another mother in IsraelSister Euseba Spence. She was born on March 1, 1837; was married to Brother B. Spence on June 23, 1857, who preceded her to the grave about twenty-five years; and died on August 22, 1913. Her home was a home for preachers and a stay to the church. Butalas!it is broken up and the children are scattered. How sad! I hope they will finally make a full family in heaven, where there will be no breaking up. There are only two of the old, original congregation left. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. (Rev. 22:14.) Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. (Ps. 116:15.) Funeral services were conducted by the writer at her residence, and her body was interred in the family graveyard. May God bless and comfort all the bereaved members of the family.

J. S. Westbrooks., Link, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, October 9, 1913, page 980.

Spence, Macanilla

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. One more of the mothers in Israel has fallenSister Macanilla Spence, whose maiden name was Patterson. She died on Saturday night, February 4, 1899. She was born on April 22, 1845; aged fifty-three years, nine months, and twelve days. She was married to Brother B. B. Spence on March 20, 1859. They shared each others joys and sorrows for thirty-nine years, ten months, and fourteen days. She obeyed the gospel in the year 1860 under the preaching of Brother Allen. She was one among the first to obey they gospel in this section, and was in the service of Christ about thirty-eight years. She fought a good fight, she kept the faith, and is gone to obtain the crown. Her aged companion has been left lonely indeed; but may he continue to put his trust in God, remembering that God does all things well. The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. She chose the better part in life: that of being simply a Christian. May all of her family ever keep it fresh in their memories that if they, too, will live the Christian life they will be permitted to see and live with their mother again it the sweet by and by, when life and its toils are over.

J. S. Westbrook.

Gospel Advocate, March 9, 1899, page 154.

Spencer, Claude E.

Dr. Claude E. Spencer, Curator Emeritus of the Disciples of Christ Historical Society located in Nashville, died July 5 at the age of 81.

Spencer, as called by family and colleagues, gave significant leadership in the establishment and development of the Historical Society, which has become one of the important church history research centers in American Protestantism. As Curator of the library and archives for 24 years he acquired valuable acquisitions and extended the services of the Society of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ. Claude Spencer was widely known and his historical knowledge was sought by researchers and writers in both this country and beyond. He served as Church History Research Assistant in Vanderbilt Divinity School, 1960-1965.

Spencer is survived by his wife, Mrs. Maud Mullin Spencer; a son, Col. John Oliver Spencer, Albuquerque, New Mexico; a brother Lloyd Spencer, Memphis, Missouri; and two grandchildren: John Michael Spencer, Billings Montana, and Teresa Spencer Ferguson, Bozeman, Montana.

Gospel Advocate, July 26, 1979, page 451.

Spencer, Elizabeth

Once more has the great enemy of man triumphed, and this time his victory was over the part mortal of sister Elizabeth Spencer. Sister Spencer was born in Meckenburg county, N. C., Dec. 22, 1822. Died in Bell county, Texas, Nov. 17, 1891. She obeyed the gospel in 1843, being baptized by one brother Hockworth. She leaves one brother, one sister, and two sons. To them I will say you shall see her again. For, though the enemy has triumphed he shall yet be vanquished for it is written the last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. I Cor. xv:26. When this enemy is thus destroyed his captives will be released and your sister and mother will rise from the dead. Sister Spencer so far as known to the writer was a good consistent Christian, and will enjoy the blessings of our Saviors triumphs. She was a lifelong subscriber and reader of the Gospel Advocate.

C. W. Sewell.

Gospel Advocate, December 31, 1891, page 830.

Spencer, Evelyn

Mrs. Evelyn Spencer died on April 27, 1915. Aunt Evelyn, as she was called by every one in the surrounding country, lived to the age of nearly ninety-one years, and for more than seventy years of this time she was trying to serve her Lord and Master. Aunt Evelyn was the wife of Uncle Johnnie Spencer, who died several years ago. For many years these two old, faithful souls worshiped with the Bethel congregation, which was then held in charge by Brother L. A. Nichols, the good old pioneer preacher of that country. But in later years Brother and Sister Spencer assisted in building the church near their home, which now bears their nameSpencer Hill Church. Sister Spencers life was beautiful, and few, if any, who have passed from the stage of action are more worthy of being an example. She was humble and submissive to every act of providence which crossed and shadowed her pathway. Many homes of the poor hath she visited; many a fevered brow hath she soothed; many hungry hath she fed. What life could be more beautiful than this? And what a happy meeting that must be when her departed spirit joins that of old Uncle Johnnie! Their lives were altogether lovely, and surely in death they will not be parted. Funeral services were conducted at the Spencer Hill Church by Elder Will Morton, and the remains were laid to rest in the Spencer Hill cemetery.

One Who Knew Her.

Gospel Advocate, August 5, 1915, page 787.

Spencer, J. M.

J. M. Spencer was born on December 25, 1877; became obedient to the gospel in August, 1891, under the preaching of Brother M. H. Northcross; and died on November 20, 1906. His mission on earth is finished, yet he lives. The happy thought is, he died in Christ. Brother Spencer was fast growing in grace, and in the knowledge of the truth; strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. He was married to Miss Fannie Thomason on September 24, 1897. She is now left with three little boys. O, how they miss him! But may they trust in Him who has promised never to forsake them. May they look to the great day when the righteous will shine in the presence and smiles of Jehovah God; then the faithful will live together again. Job asked: If a man die, shall he live again? We are taught that if we died in Christ we shall live with him. May we all have more pure religion. (See James 1:26, 27.) Let us awake to righteousness, our lamps trimmed and burning; the Bridegroom is coming.

Frank Morrow.

Gospel Advocate, June 6, 1907, page 366.

Spencer, Nathan

Nathan Spencer was born on January 6, 1834, and departed this life on Friday, September 28, 1917, being nearly eighty-four years of age at the time of his decease. In the year 1852 he was married to Miss Martha Reams, to which union seven children were born, five sons and two daughters, all of whom are living, save the mother, she having departed this life on May 25, 1894. Brother Spencer lived all of his long and useful life in Davidson and Williamson Counties, Tenn., devoting the greater part of his life to farming. About fifteen years ago he was baptized into Christ in the Big Harpeth River, having confessed the Saviors name before men at Berrys Chapel. Grandpa Spencer, as he was affectionately called, had a multitude of friends, won to him by his hearty welcome and cheering smile. He was a firm believer in prayer, and when visiting at his home, which was my pleasure upon several occasions, he rarely ever failed to ask that we petition the Father for his blessings. On Sunday, September 30, 1917, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Page, with whom

he resided, near Belle Meade, funeral services were held by Lytton Alley, assisted by Brother L. M. Jackson, after which the remains were laid to rest at the family burial ground on the Hillsboro road, near Franklin, Tenn. To the sorrowing loved ones we say: Grandpa has slipped away into the realms of eternal day. So live that you may be reunited in the rest that remains to the children of God.

Lytton Alley.

Gospel Advocate, October 25, 1917, page 1042.

Spencer, Susie

Mrs. Susie Spencer, wife of Mr. John Spencer, Jr., died on March 14, 1911, after several months suffering with tuberculosis. Death came as a sweet release to her frail, suffering body. Our hearts go out in sympathy for the bereaved husband and three little children. To her heartbroken mother, father, sisters, and brothers, we tender our deepest sympathy. Susie was a good and kind neighbor and will be greatly missed in our neighborhood; she will also be missed in the church. She obeyed the gospel several years ago. Funeral services were conducted at the church by Elder F. C. Sowell, of Columbia, Tenn., and then her body was laid to rest in the Spencer graveyard, near her home, where lie the remains of her two little girls and other relatives and friends. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.

Mrs. J. C. Murphy.

Gospel Advocate, April 27, 1911, page 498.

Spickard, J. B.

J. B. Spickard was born on December 21, 1853, and departed this life on April 11, 1918. He was married to Miss Georgie Baird on November 30, 1876. To this union were born ten childrenfive sons and five daughters. The daughters all preceded him to the spirit land. He is survived by his widow and five sons. He obeyed the gospel in 1883, and was a member of the congregation at Gladeville, Tenn., at which place he resided till his death. The writer never had the pleasure of knowing Brother Spickard personally, only having become acquainted with Sister Spickard, the widow, and some of the other members of the family since his death. Those who knew Brother Spickard best all speak in the very highest terms of him, bearing testimony to the fact that he was a good and obliging neighbor, a devoted husband, a kind father, and the elders of the congregation say that he lived a faithful and consistent member of the body of Christ. Then, in the precious hope of the gospel, we may all say with his dear family, our loss is his eternal gain. To Sister Spickard and sons we feel to say: Why lament the Christians dying? Soon each one of you, with all of us, will be called to join that innumerable throng where we shall give our Father above the wonderful anthem in the heavenly choir made vocal by his saints because of their knowing more of his wonderful love through Jesus, his Son, in the sweet fruitions of the life everlasting.

George W. Farmer.

Gospel Advocate, June 6, 1918, page 547.

Spikes, W. B.

To the righteous, death is only a summons bidding us to cease from toil and weary care, a summons from the Father bidding us to come to the land he has prepared for us. Brother W. B. Spikes was born on August 12, 1854, and died on September 12, 1909. His wife, three sons, and three daughters survive him. I had known him personally seventeen years, and can say that he was indeed a Christian. He was always accommodating, unassuming, and kind. He was an elder of the Krum congregation and will be greatly missed by its members. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.

C. C. Cofer.

Gospel Advocate, November 4, 1909, page 1398.

Spillers, David K.

Brother David K. Spillers was born in Lebanon, Tenn., on January 17, 1852; was married in 1871, and came into the church of Christ in 1884. Five children were born to them, two of whom, A. R. Spillers and Mrs. E. B. Campbell, together with Sister Spillers, survive himall now of Nashville, Tenn. He died at his home, 715 Bostcobel street, on Friday morning, June 21, 1907, and was buried in the cemetery in Gallatin, Tenn., the following Sunday morning. He was president of the Nave-Spillers Produce Company at the time of his death, with which company he had been connected for some time, and which carried on a large business in poultry and eggs, with headquarters in Gallatin, and a number of branch houses elsewhere, one of which was in Nashville, which he was running a the time of his death. Brother Spillers was a genial, pleasant man, and made friends of almost all he met. He never talked rashly or unkindly to or of any one. As a citizen, he was highly respected; as a business man, honest and trustworthy. He lived for many years in Gallatin, where he made a useful and faithful member of the church, and was highly esteemed by the members there and throughout that county, and a very large crowd of his acquaintances attended his funeral at the cemetery. We were informed that during the twenty-three years that he was a member of the church he was absent from the service on the first day of the week only five times. We give our tenderest sympathies to Sister Spillers and the two children in the loss of a husband and father so tender and true to the relations he sustained to them. They surely have all the consolations that the gospel affords to a life earnestly devoted to it. Brother Spillers was for a time with the brethren at Tenth Street Church, and we were all warmly attached to him, and he will be long and tenderly remembered by us. The cheering side of the loss of Brother Spillers here on earth is that if wife and children, brethren and sisters, will be faithful to the Lord until death, they may meet him in the home of the soul, nevermore to say farewell.

E. G. S.

Gospel Advocate, July 4, 1907, page 430.

Spivey, James L., Jr.

On Friday, November 18, 1977, James L. Spivey, Jr., passed from this life after a serious illness of three days at the South Georgia Medical Center in Valdosta, Ga.

Brother Spivey was a very powerful man in a way which I feel the Lord describes and recommends power. He served as an elder of the church of Christ in Valdosta for over two decades, and throughout that entire period was a man of decision and strength who helped to mold the very nature of the entire eldership and congregation.

In every area of life he was a good man. He was a man of knowledge as well as wisdom, and a man of understanding as well as care. He served as a loving husband to a beautiful Christian wife for over forty years. He was a dedicated son all the days o f his life to a father who survives his death and whom he visited daily for many years to administer to his fathers needs. He was a loving father of four children who always considered him blessed.

He was a Christian leader and teacher and counselor and missionary. He was a friend of Christian youth and Christian maturity. He was a supporter of all kinds of activities in the training of youth, including Christian education on a broad base. He was a man who could lift up his eyes and see the dream of God and strive to participate aggressively in the evangelization of the whole world. At the same time, he could look around him and delve into the problems and opportunities presented.

He was a man who was able to combine the strength of Daddy Jim, who served as sheriff of Lyons County for twenty-six years, with the quiet love of a beautiful, humble Ma Mae; and with the beautiful positive energy of his wife, Elanar. He was one of the very few men in life whom I have known who was able to combine many years of public service and at the same time preserve family privacy. Most men find it almost necessary either to become a public servant and sacrifice the privacy of the home, or else withdraw within the privacy of the family and refuse to participate in those activities that are important for bringing the world to Christ.

I have known Brother Spivey for twenty years. In the last days of 1957 I sat in a room with five elders of that church and discussed work, opportunities and dreams. Through the last two decades we have shared those dreams and that work in striving toward a strong congregation at home, while sharing the gospel in dozens of countries around the world, with special emphasis on New Zealand. Jim Spivey, Jr., was an avid supporter of both local strength and world-wide evangelism on the part of the church.

The key analysis of his life is that he was a man of sensitive perception. I have never known anyone who was capable of listening to a discussion concerning a topic or a problem and then in quiet but few words, analyze the discussion and point it in both a scriptural and effective direction. Such powers are missing oftentimes in the church, and I grieve for his loss. We certainly shall miss him in the future.

I remember a statement of the Wise Man which perhaps summarizes my evaluation of this leader of men: I have seen . . . princes walking as servants upon the earth.

Joe D. Gray.

Gospel Advocate, December 15, 1977, page 798.

Spivey, John

John Spivey was born on June 10, 1853, and departed this life on January 8, 1925, after three years and six months of suffering from stomach trouble. He was married to Abey Bailey forty-five years ago. To this union two boys were born. His wife and sons survive him, and, with a host of friends, mourn his death, but not without hope. He obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Brother Thomas D. Rose in July, 1915, and lived a consistent Christian until death. Even before his obedience to the gospel Brother Spivey was a good, moral citizen, always standing for that which was for the betterment of his fellow man and the up-building of the community in which he lived. He lived to see his whole family become Christians. His body was laid away in the Ray Cemetery. Brother Marion Harris spoke words of comfort and respect in the presence of a large audience.

O. S. Moss.

Gospel Advocate, September 10, 1925, page 881.

Spivey, Vernon M.

Vernon M. Spivey was born seventy years ago, December 17, 1902 in Macon County, Tennessee. He was the first son in a family that grew to be eight boys and three girls. He grew up in an atmosphere of devotion to church, family and home. He worked on the family farm and believed in hard labor and getting ahead. He left Tennessee to get an education to enable him to play a higher role in life.

On December 17, 1937 he married Mava Ann Dodson of Big Sandy, Tenn. This young couple hoped for three boys and two girls, with the first being a boy. Very coincidentally with their wishes, Paul Robert was born September 26, 1938, James Roland on November 26, 1940, Helen Ann on August 8, 1942, David Gary on July 11, 1946 and Frances Lou on May 7, 1948.

During these years Brother Spivey conducted gospel singing and evangelistic meetings in churches of Christ. These were principally held in Southern Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas and Oklahoma. He also established the West Side church of Christ in Chicago which was a fledgling congregation for several decades, and he helped establish other congregations.

In the secular area Brother Spivey had a long commitment to Personal Development Courses. He taught public speaking, success motivation and affirmations that one could learn to sing, sell, speak, love, and conquer negative thoughts. In the early 1940s the Spivey Universal Hymn Chorus was heard regularly on the radio in the Chicago area. He later was heard on church broadcasts throughout the, then, forty-eighty states. His dream was to establish a community of New Testament Christians where everyone would play a constructive, wholesome role free of strife, bickering or crime.

In his own words he wrote, Endeavor to love God and your fellow man more and more, and cheerfully do your best to make life for others sweeter and better. Brother Spivey saw his dream of University City with its wide avenues, Christian people and organic farming fail to come to pass. It was, perhaps, a utopian dream but the dream must come before the reality. The man that has passed from life did dream big dreams. This made him more than the usual man.

In recent years he and Sister Sivey were pleased to see their children married. Helen married Donald Sproat, Paul married Vera Knapp, James married Sylvia Kuhn, Frances married Norris Buck and David married Donna Stalzle.

Brother Spivey also leaves two sisters, Clara Piper and Marie Spivey. Seven brothers: Claude, Herman, Lloyd, Kermit, Louis, Harold and Joe, with a host of friends to mourn his passing.

Mrs. Vernon M. Spivey.

Gospel Advocate, January 25, 1973, page 61.

Spivy, H. J.

Brother H. J. Spivy, more generally known as Brother Jordan Spivy, departed this life on November 24, 1906. Brother Spivy has perhaps done more preaching in Giles County, Tenn., than any other one man. Several churches had their beginning under his preaching, and he has led many to become obedient to the gospel. Brother Spivy was twice marriedfirst, to Miss Mary Ann Osborne, in 1846, who died twenty-two years ago; and, second, to Miss Bettie Jordan, in 1885. He leaves a wife and a number of children and grandchildren to mourn their loss. He was a man of ability, and had the courage to speak his convictions anywhere. He would do what he believed to be his duty, even if he knew the entire community would censure him for it. Funeral services were conducted by Brother Sherman Kelly, his brother-in-law, of Lawrenceburg, Tenn., and his body was laid to rest at Chestnut Grove on Sunday, November 25.

J. T Harris., Minor Hill, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, January 10, 1907, page 28.

Springer, David Aaron

David Aaron Springer was born April 7, 1858, in McNairy County, Tenn.; died August 30, 1936. He was married to Miss El Mira Pratt, January 23, 1886. To this union four children were born. The son died in infancy. His wife and three daughters survive: Mrs. E. L. Whitaker, Milan, Tenn.; Mrs. W. H. Hill, Oxford, Miss.; Miss Irene Springer, Corinth, Miss. A brother (J. P. Barnett, Shiloh National Park), a sister (Mrs. L. V. Hays, Oklahoma City), and eight grandchildren also survive. He obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Allen Hendrick at the age of twenty-eight. Nineteen years ago he moved to Corinth, Miss., and engaged in the grocery business until his health failed about six years ago. I married into his family in 1916. He was honest, kind, faithful. He worshiped in his home when unable to go to church, communing the day of his death. His closest associates never heard him swear an oath or tell a filthy joke. Funeral services were conducted by A. E. Emmons, Jr. He was laid to rest in the Carter Cemetery, Tulu, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, October 29, 1936, page 1055.

Sprinkles, Lela

Sister Lela Sprinkles was born on September 27, 1877, and departed this life on October 1, 1909. In the fall of 1898 she embraced the religion of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, under the preaching of one of the Dunn brothers. She was the victim of consumption. She went to the far West with the hope of her health being restored, but returned, perfectly submissive to our Heavenly Fathers will, to live out her few remaining days and to die in the land of her girlhood. She was conscious of her coming death, but was as cheerful as she could be. Even after she could not talk for the lack of strength, she would lie on her bed with a pleasant smile on her face to greet those that came to care for her. She was one of Wayne Countys best teachers, a lady of refinement, a Christian, and those who knew her best loved her most. I would say to her loved ones that she has left behind: Do not weep for her, for the Book of God tells us that precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints; but think of the blessedness of meeting again where we will never have to say good-by.

W. R. Hassell., Hohenwald, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, November 4, 1909, page 1398.

Spurlock, Emma Elizabeth

Sister Emma Elizabeth Spurlock was born May 14, 1864, and departed this life July 20. She was a faithful member of the church for forty-two years. I knew her for only a few years, but I was made better by having known her. She loved the church as dearly as any one could, I believe. Her kind and loving disposition was beyond reproach and won for her the friendship of many. I do not remember of ever meeting a more lovely character. After a few days of her last illness, she was anxious to move out of the old house and go into the new. She loved the eight children and the grandchildren, who survive, but she was willing to depart so as to be with the Lord. Funeral services were conducted by the writer on a lawn near the home of her daughter, Mrs. Thomas Wells, in Springfield, Tenn., in the presence of a large crowd of relatives and friends, after which the body was laid to rest at Gallatin.

Thomas H. Burton.

Gospel Advocate, September 13, 1934, page 895.

Spurlock, Mollie

Sister Mollie Spurlock, of Bardwell, Ky., was born on Pine Creek, DeKalb County, Tenn., Dec. 10, 1847, and died April 9, 1897. She was married to G. J. Spurlock, May 5, 1891. Sister Mollie was first a member of the Methodist fraternity; but when she learned the truth, she accepted it and united with the church of God worshiping at Smithville, Tenn., in the year 1877. Sister Mollie lived a consistent, exemplary Christian life. Although her sufferings were severe (she died of cancer), she never murmured or complained. Her faith was strong in Jesus, and she never seemed to have any doubts. I was her physician; and when I told her her disease was incurable, it did not seem to daunt her in the least. My sympathies are with her bereaved husband and stepchildren, especially Adda, who seemed to think as much of her as any child ever thought of its own mother. Sister Mollie leaves three sisters and three brothers.

Dr. J. A. Moores.

Gospel Advocate, May 27, 1897, page 336.

Spurlock, Nancy

On April 6, 1908, Sister Nancy Spurlock departed this life. She leaves one son (William B. Spurlock), one daughter, and several grandchildren to mourn her death. She was about eighty-four years old. She was a Methodist for a long time, but during Brother J. H. Morris meeting at Gassaway, Tenn. she learned the way of the Lord more perfectly, and on September 18, 1892, she decided to leave off all human names and be nothing but a Christian, and united with the church of God. He body was laid to rest at Mount Moriah, in DeKalb County. The Baptists opened their meetinghouse and invited all into the house, where I made a talk to a large and attentive crowd.

L. L. Melton.

Gospel Advocate, July 2, 1908, page 426.

Srygley, Anne

A most wonderful life ended on December 23, 1932, when our Masters call was answered by Mrs. Anne Srygley. She was born on February 8, 1840, in Tennessee. She was married to Mr. Hardin, a pioneer Presbyterian minister. To this union six children were born, one preceding her in death. Mr. Hardin departed this life about 1870. This reconstruction period was a life of trials and privations for her. About 1879 she was married to Major Srygley. To this union three children were born, one preceding her in death. Major Srygley passed from this life about 1902. She was baptized into Christ by the late Dr. Henry, and lived a faithful, Christian life to the end. All of her children, following the way taught by our Master and the example set by their mother, are faithful Christians. She was of a tender, loving disposition; a faithful wife, so devoted to the afflicted husband; a loving mother, that her children could rise up, and call her blessed; a kind friend to all. All of her life was spent in Tennessee and Alabama, except the last twenty-eight years, which were spent with her daughter, Mrs. Sam Dilbeck, of Springtown, Texas. Funeral services were conducted at the church by Brother Claude McClung, who spoke some very consoling and impressive words. The body was tenderly laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery at Springtown, to await the resurrection. May we all so live that we will be permitted to join her in the beautiful home of the soul. We cannot say that she is dead; she is just away.

Mrs. Lillian Srygley Rickard.

Gospel Advocate, March 23, 1933, page 287.

Srygley, Arthur D.

On Sunday morning, October 23, 1949, Arthur D. Srygley, an humble servant of the Lord since early childhood, went to his eternal home to be with our Lord and the redeemed of all ages. He was leading the song service and the song just before communion when he became ill, but somehow regained his strength and sang, Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross. He had to be assisted to his seat, and partook of the bread, but by the time the cup passed he was not able to raise it to his mouth. His good wife assisted him. He was carried to his home, and lived about two hours, but never spoke again. The doctor said it was a heart attack and a stroke. His sudden passing was so hard on the ones that are left, but it is sweet to know that his last act on earth was in the Lords service. It was principally through his untiring efforts that the cause of Christ was established at Courtland, Ala. He was one of the first elders there. He was born in Lawrence County, Ala., March 17, 1884, and spent most of his life there. Courtland was his home. He married Eunice Sanderson of the same place. She, with one daughter (Mrs. Josephine Howard), two grandchildren, three brothers (Bluit, Edgar, and McGarvey), one sister (Mrs. Lillian S. Rickard), and a number of nieces and nephews, survive. Luther Jones, one time the minister of the church in Courtland and a very close friend, spoke words of comfort to the family and a large audience of friends at the church in Courtland. Let us not weep as those that have no hope, for our loss is heavens gain. The church has truly suffered a great loss. As Brother Pullias said: There is no appeal from the great law that dooms us all to the dust. Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return, was only spoken of the body. The soul shall never die. Brother Srygley will not only be missed in his home, but in the community and church.

Mrs. Lillian S. Rickard.

Gospel Advocate, December 1, 1949, page 766.

Srygley, Floyd Wallace

Floyd Wallace Srygley was born February 6, 1878; departed this life September 4, 1944. He is survived by his wife, his mother (Mrs. Maud Srygley), a sister (Mrs. Lillian S. Rickard), four brothers (Bluit, Arthur, Edgar, and McGarvey), a number of nieces and nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends. His father, two sisters and three brothers had preceded him in death. His oldest brother, Tolbert, died suddenly just two months and one day before. Floyd was born at Mountain Home, Lawrence County, Ala. He married Miss Elizabeth Sharp, of Sheffield, Ala. They moved to Texas and settled at Denison, where he was buried. He obeyed the gospel in early life and was baptized by our cousin, the late Fletcher Srygley, and we have every assurance that he lived a devoted Christian life; he was also a devoted son, brother, and uncle. I do not believe a more devoted or happier couple ever lived. The past two years he had been in failing health, and had to spend quite a bit of his time in the hospitals; but as the doctors and nurses said, they liked to come into his room, for he would always meet them with that million-dollar smile. He was a deacon in the church at Denison for about thirty years; he was also an employee of the Katy Railroad shops for about the same time. Not only by his kindred, but his fellow workmen (colored included), was he looked upon as a leader of Christianity by the clean, pure life that he lived. He was never happier than when he could be of service to the aged or the very young. Our prayers are that we will use Floyd as an example to improve our lives and look forward to the reunion, for some day he will meet us with that smile.

Mrs. Lillian S. Rickard., Sister.

Gospel Advocate, January 4, 1945, page 14.

Srygley, James Milton Tolbert

James Milton Tolbert Srygley, of Town Creek, Ala., was born on December 14, 1846. He was baptized by Brother Jesse Wood in 1866. He was married to Miss Maude Roberts on August 20, 1873. To this union ten children were born, seven sons and three daughters, all of whom are living except two, one daughter and one son, the oldest and the youngest of the ten, who died when quiet young. Six sons were present at the funeral service and served in the capacity of pallbearers. It was an impressive scene to behold six noble men lower the body of their loving father into the bosom of mother earth. Brother Srygley was a member of one of the best families of North Alabama. He was a first cousin of our beloved brother, F. B. Srygley, of Nashville, Tenn., and was a fine character. He was a good man in the fullest sense of the term. He was one of the best and truest friends I ever had or expect to ever have. He had spent the past winter with his youngest daughter, Mrs. Lillian Srygley Rickard, in Fort Worth, Texas. He died in Sheffield, Ala., in the home of his son, Edgar Srygley, en route to his home at Town Creek, which place he hoped to reach before his eyes were closed in death. A large number of friends and relatives attended the memorial services preparatory to the interment of his body in the beautiful cemetery in Tuscumbia, Ala.

C. E. Holt.

Gospel Advocate, May 28, 1925, page 526.

Srygley, Maud

Mrs. Maud Srygley, born September 1, 1854; departed this life May 7, 1947, at Fort Worth, Texas; burial, Springtown, Texas; age, ninety-two years. She was the daughter of Thomas Jefferson and Mary Byler Roberts, of Lawrence County, Moulton, Ala. She was married to the late James M. Srygley, August 20, 1873. To this union ten children were born five surviving (B.L., A.D., E.V., McGarvey, and Mrs. Lillian S. Rickard), twenty-nine grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Mother obeyed the gospel in her early life, and was a faithful wife, a devoted mother, a wonderful neighbor (especially to the sick and poor), and a faithful Christian to the end. Our parents took great delight in making their home the preachers home, entertaining such men as Larimore, the Lipscombs, Scobey, Barkley, and the Srygleys. It was with great pride that mother would tell of Mrs. Alexander Campbell being in their home and my father taking her to a nearby town. Among the many business people she was introduced to, one was editor of the weekly paper. The following week a long article was in this paper, telling of the very pleasant visit with Mrs. Alexander Campbell, widow of the founder of the Christian Church. Her reply was very brief, showing that Christ was the founder of his church, not Alexander Campbell. In their early days churches were far apart and with our modern transportation, preaching once a month, or hardly so often was cherished. I recall for almost two weeks our parents prepared dinner daily and drove over rough mountain roads to the La Grange Church (Colbert County, Ala.), where our late cousin, Fletcher Srygley, held a meeting. Roads were too dangerous to drive over at night, so they would have morning and afternoon

services. Now we have to drive our car to many peoples doors and carry them back and forth. I am thankful that our parents lived to enjoy life and their Christian worship without so many hardships. Life is so lonely without either father or mother, but some day, if we are faithful to the end, our faith will cease and become a reality and we will spend eternity with our Lord and the faithful. This is my daily prayer.

Lillian S. Rickard.

Gospel Advocate, October 2, 1947, page 790.

Srygley, McGarvey

McGarvey Srygley was born September 28, 1888. He departed this life January 20, 1960. Burial was at Tuscumbia, Ala. He was the son of James M. and Maud Roberts Srygley. He married Ethel Huckalby. To this union six children were born: James Wallace, Christine Lansdell, Ruth Galloway, Evelon Haskell, Floyd Carl and Elizabeth Lewis. James Wallace preceded him in death. Surviving are his widow, twenty-six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and two brothers, Bluit L., and Edgar V., and one sister, the writer. McGarvey obeyed the gospel in early life, baptized by Orie Srygley, a cousin. At his passing his membership was with the Homewood congregation, Birmingham, Ala. He was said to be an outstanding Bible student and authority in the Bible in that congregation. McGarvey was named for J. W. McGarvey. We are thankful for the many good deeds of McGarvey. He will be sorely missed, not only by his own, but his host of friends as well. His last ten years of life were on crutches, or in a wheel chair and in intense suffering most of the time, but he bore it with a smile.

Lillian S. Rickard.

Gospel Advocate, February 25, 1960, page 127.

Srygley, Panina Ann

On the eve of August 17, 1893, at her home in Coal Hill, Ark., the soul of Sister Panina Ann Srygley very suddenly and unexpectedly took its flight to the spirit land. The cause of her death was said to be the rupture of an abscess upon the liver. She had been in a low state of health for some time, but was able to be about. Though death came suddenly and unexpectedly to her friends, it did not find her unawares. Not long before her death she wrote a letter of business to my wife (her sister), requesting an immediate answer. An immediate answer was sent, but doubtless the answer did not more than reach her, ere the boatman hailed to bear her across the silent and chilly waters of death. She was born near Landersville, Ala., and when quite young became a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, but in after life soon learned the way of the Lord more perfectly, and took her stand with the true Israel of God, with the Bible for her perfect guide. She was married to F. W. Srygley at Cedar Plains, Ala., about 1877, with whom she faithfully lived until lifes sun was set. She was a faithful Christian, a true wife, and a devoted mother; hence, will be greatly missed in the assembly of the saints, and around the hearthstone at home. She leaves a husband, five children, and many relatives and friends to mourn her death. To all I would say: Weep not as for one who has no hopeyour loss is her gain. Her trials are past, her conflicts are oer, her battle is fought, the victory is won, and now comes rest. For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

R. W. Norwood.

Gospel Advocate, October 12, 1893, page 649.

Srygley, Theodore Quarles

Theodore Quarles Srygley was born in Nashville, Tenn., June 20, 1901, and departed this life, Sept. 1, 1983. He had been in poor health for some time but was active and alert until the very last. He was the son of the late pioneer preacher, F. B. Srygley, who wrote extensively for the Gospel Advocate for many years.

Dr. Srygley was an exceptional Christian man. His life was spent in the field of education and business. He served in these areas primarily in Little Rock, Ark., Austin, Texas and Tallahassee, Fla. He was a devoted Christian, always concerned with pure New Testament teaching. To him the Bible was the final word in all things.

Ted was a highly dedicated family man. He is survived by his wife, Sara Krentzman Srygley of Tallahassee, Fla.; three daughters, Dr. Jane Srygley Mouton of Austin, Texas; Bette Srygley Walker and Louise Srygley Bishop of Tampa, Fla.; two sons, Ted Filo Srygley of Gainesville Fla., and Paul Dunlap Srygley of Tallahassee, Fla.; and ten grandchildren. He had great pride in every one of these. He always taught them to do the very best they could in every undertaking.

Ted was a community minded citizen. He will be sorely missed in every aspect of life. He was a special friend of preachersalways ready to help in any way or to supply an appropriate anecdote. People from all walks of life sought, and received, his wise counsel.

In the words of his loving wife, Sara, Now Ted has gone on his longed for Great Adventure.

Funeral services were conducted by this writer Sept. 3, 1983, in Tallahassee, Fla.

Billy R. Helms., 4712 Bull St., Savannah, GA.

Gospel Advocate, June 21, 1984, page 377.

Srygley, Tolbert Thomas

Tolbert Thomas Srygley was born February 15, 1876, in Lawrence County, (Mount Home), Ala.; departed this life July 3, 1944, at the age of sixty-eight. He is survived by his wife (Mrs. Annie Srygley), one son, four daughters, four grandchildren, his mother, five brothers, one sister, and a host of other relatives and friends, who deeply mourn his passing. Tolbert died suddenly of a heart attack while at his work in the railroad shops, a position, that he had held for around thirty years. He was baptized when about fifteen years old by his cousin, our late beloved Fletcher Srygley. He loved the church, contended for the faith. He has painted his own picture. He is in the hands of a just God. He loved his home, family, and loved ones. He was happy in his work with his buddies, as he called them. As one brother said, a bigger-hearted man never lived. He will be missed by all his relatives. Uncle Tolbert was always ready to share their joys or sorrows. Funeral service was held at the church at Tuscumbia, and interment was at the same place, his home.

Mrs. Lillian S. Rickard., Sister

Gospel Advocate, August 17, 1944, page 551.

Stafford, Harvey B.

Harvey B. Stafford was born March 23, 1877, in Jackson County, Tenn.; died May 12, 1948, at his home, Drumright, Okla. He was married to Nancy Catherine McCoin on September 2, 1900. Four children were born to this union. Surviving are his wife (Mrs. H. B. Stafford), three sons (Walter L. Stafford, Slaton, Texas; Oliver P. Stafford, Wewoka, Okla.; and Jeff L. Stafford, Wewoka, Okla.), one daughter (Mrs. Edward Albritton, Lawton, Okla.), three grandsons (O. P., Jr., Joe, and Donald Royce), one granddaughter (Nancy Ruth Albritton), one brother (Will Stafford, Chattanooga, Tenn.), and one sister (Mrs. W. F. Mayberry, Cookeville, Tenn.). He was employed by the Sinclair-Prairie Oil Company until his retirement in September, 1943. He was baptized into Christ at an early age, and lived faithful unto death. Just three days before his death, on the Lords day, he was in his regular place among the saints in the Lords house. On that afternoon (May 9) he enjoyed the fellowship of his children who had returned home for a family reunion. He was very active, as usual, the following three days, and seemed to be in the best of health. On the day of his death he was busy doing his chores around the home, and retired for the night at about 10 P.M. At 11:40 the Lord called him home for a permanent retirement to rest from all of his earthly labors. His death was caused by a cerebral hemorrhage while he was sleeping. There were no pains or suffering of any kind, as far as we know. He simply went to sleep in Christ. Brother Stafford was truly a great man, both physically and spiritually. He was a true light set on a hill, and the world, looking upon him, could see Jesus. He preached some of the greatest sermons in this community, not from the pulpit, but daily, by the life he lived and the deeds he did. Many of his friends did not heed his sermons (as they did not heed the teaching and life of Christ), but they loved him dearly for his kindness, his patience, his firmness, and the manner of life he lived for his Master. Among the many works that will follow him will be the works of his children and the Christian life they will live. Among the faithful left behind is a son (Jeff L. Stafford), who preaches for the church of Christ at Cromwell, Okla. The funeral was in the Drumright Church building, conducted by Mardell Lynch of Wewoka, Okla., and the writer. Interment was in the Fairlawn Cemetery at Cushing, Okla.

E. J. Dismuke, Drumright, Okla.

Gospel Advocate, October 14, 1948, page 1005.

Stafford, Rhoda

Sister Rhoda Stafford, daughter of Paton Anderson and Annie Anderson, was born on October 5, 1824, and died on March 14, 1905. She was married to Thomas J. Stafford in 1843, and to them six children were born. She survived her husband about thirty-eight years, and all of her children, save one son. She obeyed the gospel in the first principles about 1858, and was baptized by Brother Martin Loftis. Her Christian life extended over a period of about forty-seven years. The day following her death her body was laid away in the family graveyard, on Roaring River, Jackson County, Tenn., to await the resurrection of Christ. Services were conducted by the writer. Sister Stafford was a kind and good woman, a Christian in deed, in truth, and in spirit, but as the Bible teaches that there are none without fault, we would not recommend her as being without fault. Yet she and all others could confess, turn from their faults, pray for forgiveness, and be as clear as if they had never sinned. So let us take warning, count up daily, and keep clear; for we know not when our time cometh to cross the river of death, as all the earth before us who are numbered with the pale-faced nations of the dead. Sister Stafford leaves many friends and relatives to mourn their loss, but we trust that their loss is her gain; yet if we would die right, we should live right.

Hiram Pharris.

Gospel Advocate, April 6, 1905, page 218.

Stafford, William Lewis

William Lewis Stafford was born on December 7, 1858, near St. Louis, Mo. He was of Scotch-Irish descent. He came to West Texas with his parents in an early day and became thoroughly acquainted with frontier life. He engaged in teaching vocal music, during which time he obeyed the gospel, being baptized by Brother Matt. Caviness. In 1889 he began preaching. There being but few congregations in West Texas at that time, he did not wait for a call, but went into the byways and hedges at his own charges and planted the cause which he so dearly loved. Sectarianism had preceded the truth to that section, as is usually the case, and hence he was called on often to defend the truth. It was the writers privilege to be closely associated with him for more than twenty-five years. I moderated for him in his debate with A. S. Bradley. Brother Stafford drove Elder Bradley so hard that he denied the divinity of Christ. He was the strongest man in the prophecies that I ever met. I miss him so much. There is not a man in the State who can fill his place. He was married on October 11, 1883, to Miss Sallie Baker. She lived about six years. They had two children born to them. One died in infancy; the other, Sister Ethel Shipman, of Colorado City, Texas, survives. He married his second wife, who was Miss Lottie Smith, the granddaughter of the lamented Ed. Stirman, on December 30, 1906. To this union a son was born, who survives his father. Brother Stafford was married to his second wife exactly nine years and two days. She nursed him tenderly during his last illness. A loving husband and father and a true and faithful Christian and servant of Christ has gone. He was faithful to the end, which came on January 1, 1916. Let us labor to meet him in the sweet by and by.

Ike P. Scarborough.

Gospel Advocate, April 27, 1916, page 426.

Staggs, Mary Jane

Mrs. Mary Jane (Flippo) Staggs, wife of the late Samuel Staggs, was born on August 3, 1850, and died on January 3, 1926. She was married to Samuel Staggs in 1870. To this union were born thirteen children, nine of whom are living. Her youngest daughter, Miss Hannah Staggs, is one of the most efficient teachers in Lawrence County, Tenn. She is well known in Lawrenceburg, as she went to school here, and has many friends here to sympathize with her in the death of her dear mother. Sister Staggs was buried by the side of her husband in the home graveyard at Fish Trap, after funeral services by the writer. Her life has not been wasted; for, having been transplanted into the hearts of others, it will live on and on. She became a Christian early in life, and died, as she had lived, in the Lord. May her children so live that the family may be reunited some sweet day.

T. C. King.

Gospel Advocate, February 11, 1926, page 141.

Staggs, Robert V.

Robert V. Staggs, of Summertown, Tenn., passed into eternity at 9 A.M. on July 4, 1941, at his home, where he had lived many years. He obeyed the gospel fifty-four years ago; married Miss Anna Miller fifty-three years ago. They lived and traveled this long journey together just about as happy as any couple to be found. His first professional work was practicing law. After following this for a few years, forty years ago he finally turned to preaching the gospel, and led many people to a better life. Although he was very fond of children, none were born into his home. However, during most of his life he kept some child in his home. H. N. Mann and Gilbert F. Gibbs conducted his funeral amidst a very large host of friends. Brother Staggs was a good reasoner on the Scriptures, and enjoyed conversations on the Scriptures very much. He had as much, or more, of the Abrahamic faith as anyone I have ever associated with. His life was rather checkered, especially the early part; but I have never known a man to do a more noble act of conquering his enemies and mastering himself than he. This he did to a splendid degree. He realized several days beforehand that the end was near, and asked that no medicine be given him to prolong his stay. Finally at 9 A.M., July 4, he fell asleep with a smile on his face. He was an unusual character, bighearted, kind, and good to everyone, and made friends easily. He loved nobility and set a mighty fine example for others to follow. During the last few years of his life he was comparatively an invalid, but was exceptionally patient and was most grateful for any little deed of kindness. He looked for the good in people, and found it when others failed. His conversations were uplifting and proved a great comfort to those in sorrow. I have never known a man who tried to help and encourage me more. He had known me since I began to preach, and never failed to comment on a sermon, always with encouraging remarks. His wife, who is a very excellent lady, is the sad one nownot that she doubts that all is well with him, but she will miss his genial companionship, as will the many friends around his home. His many friends loved him devoutly, and he valued them highly. I doubt that a man living who is not related to him by an earthly tie will miss him as much as I. My memories of him are very dear, and as long as such shall last I shall hold R. V. Staggs as one of the truest and best friends I have ever had. The good Lord protect his widow and permit a reunion in due time.

J. W. Dunn.

Gospel Advocate, August 14, 1941, page 791.

Staggs, Virginia

Mrs. Virginia (Dotson) Staggs died at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Dotson, Friday, July 24, 1925. Funeral services were conducted at the Henson cemetery on Saturday by the writer. Virgie, as she was familiarly called by her friends, had been in bad health for a number of years, but bore her suffering cheerfully. She was a sweet, Christian woman, and always had a bright smile for those who were so faithful in trying to help her. She leaves a husband and two dear little children to mourn their great loss. Besides her husband and children, she leaves her father, mother, four brothers, two sisters, and a host of other friends to sorrow in her early passing from our midst. To the loved ones we would say: Weep not; she is only freed from her pains and is now sleeping that sweet, peaceful sleep which only those who live in the Lord may enjoy.

Thomas C. King.

Gospel Advocate, November 12, 1935, page 1100.

Stalcup, J. G.

J. G. Stalcup, 1879-1950. Born in Tennessee; married Miss Alice Allen; moved to Winfield, Ala., in 1907, where he engaged in the banking business till the time of his death. It was my good fortune to know Jim Stalcup for I was often in his home while conducting meetings in Winfield. He was all that could be asked for as a host. He was a man of high ideals, devoted to his wife and children, and attended church services regularly attending meetings I conducted in this town. His friends were numbered by the host of his acquaintances in the business world. He was the soul of honor. Though he was not a member of the church when I was in his home, he was nonetheless interested in the church and rejoiced to see it prosper in his town. He was unstinted in giving of his means to see the work of the church advanced. He made all provisions for his wife and family to attend the services of the church at all times. Sister Stalcup was one of the most devoted women I have known. She died some years ago. I was glad to count J. G. Stalcup as one of my friends. Numbers of preachers were entertained in his home, among them M. O. Daley, who says: While working with the church in Winfield, I made my home with the J. G. Stalcups. Jim Stalcup was a hard-working banker; yet, though at the time not a member of the church, he seldom missed a service. His home was my home. He was a good man, and I loved him. Not till his busiest days in the business world were over did he become a member of the church. When I learned that he had become a Christian, I sent him a letter, are rejoicing with others that he had made preparations for the passing to the great over world. His last days were his ripest and happiest days. His influence will be felt for good by many.

C. R. Nichol.

Gospel Advocate, October 12, 1950, page 662.

Stalcup, Mattie Neely

Mrs. Mattie Neely Stalcup, wife of J. T. Stalcup, Sr., departed this life October 6, 1942, after having suffered a years serious illness as a result of a broken hip. Mrs. Stalcup was born in Benton County, Ark., and with her grandparents, James Neely and wife, removed to Comanche County, Texas, at an early age. She is survived by her husband and four children: Mrs. G. F. Mickey, of Gallup, N. M.; Mrs. J. G. Hufstedler, J. T. Stalcup, Jr., and Mrs. J. T. Baisden, all of Lubbock, Texas. Another daughter (Mrs. J. C. Boyd, of Petersburg, Texas) passed on before her, several years ago. Three sisters (Lee Ella Stapp, of Los Angeles, Calif.; Lula Smartt, of Monterey, Calif.; and Carrie Van Trease, of Alvarado, Texas) also survive. The funeral was held from the Broadway Church, Lubbock, Texas, G. C. Brewer, Liff Sanders, and H. G. Gantz officiating. Sister Stalcup obeyed the gospel at thirteen years of age at Sidney, Texas, under the preaching of J. T. Todd, and her zeal for his service was manifested by the fact that she had had a fifteen-year record of perfect attendance at the Lords table. She lived a life of devotion to her Savior, and sought to glorify his name by every thought and action. Her testimony to the power of prayer in the life of a Christian stands as a monument to his name. As a public-school teacher for many years, her counsel to youth lives and bears fruit in the lives of those who came under her teaching.

Her Husband., 1923 Sixteenth Street, Lubbock, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, January 14, 1943, page 42.

Stalker, Martha E.

At the setting of the sunthe hour she loved beston July 18, 1906, Mrs. Martha E. Stalker left her home on earth for a mansion in the skies. The next day Elder David Lipscomb made an impressive and instructive talk to the friends assembled to look on her remains for the last time. She died possessed of the greatest riches that man can ownthe promise of an eternal inheritance in heaven. She suffered sorely for weeks before the end came, but was patient and unmurmuring throughout the daysnever complaining, but often expressing a desire for the rest promised to the children of God, for indeed she was agonized to weariness. She obeyed the gospel in the pioneer preaching of it in Middle Tennessee, and was baptized by Sandy E. Jones. She was married to John D. Stalker in 1859, Elder F. M. Carmack performing the ceremony. Her home was in Hartsville, where she did a grand work for God and man. Like the Shunammite woman, she had a little room on the wall always ready for the man of God, and it really became the central home in the village for preachers. She ever answered roll call at her post of duty. She never neglected assembling with the saints to break bread, and was just as faithful in her attendance at Sunday school, where she had been a beloved teacher for years. To her friends she was warm-hearted and charitable; to her sister, kind and true; to her adopted daughter and son-in-law, a wise and patient mother; to her husband, a loving and gentle wife. All classes knew her worth, for she extended her kindness to the doors of the hovel and blessed the inmates of many a cabin home. Indeed, we feel that the work she did is still growing, though her hands are folded in the voiceless silence of the grave, for all who witnessed her resignation went home to live better. May the loved ones left behind catch a gleam from Bethlehems Star and follow where it leads.

Elvira DeBow.

Gospel Advocate, September 6, 1906, page 571.

Stambaugh, Ida Leonora

Mrs. Ida Leonora (Skaggs) Stambaugh departed this life September 3, 1950, after having suffered six months illness as a result of a stroke which paralyzed her entire left side. Mrs. Stambaugh was the youngest child in a family of twelve children, all of whom preceded her in death. Her father was Henry Ellison Skaggs of Weakley County, Tenn. He came to Texas with her mother, who was Narcissa George of Russell County, Ky., before the Civil War. They located in Cook County, near Collinsville, where Ida was born August 7, 1874. In her thirteenth year she gave her life to Christ. Never forsaking the path of righteousness, she grew strong in the faith and developed in Christian love till the Lord took her home. On June 30, 1896, she was married to Floyd P. Stambaugh by her brother, W. P. Skaggs. She leaves seven childrentwo daughters and five sonsto mourn her death: Mrs. J. T. Stalcup, Lubbock, Texas; Roy Stambaught, Kress, Texas; Mrs. Bert E. Ehresman and William Lloyd Stambaugh, Plainview, Texas; Chester Stambaugh, Lubbock, Texas; Leo Stambaugh, Eastland, Texas; ad Paul Stambaugh., Dalhart, Texas. Her husband, Floyd P. Stambaugh, was killed in a car accident several years ago in Plainview. She was a sweet and sympathetic sister, a loyal and devoted wife, a loving mother, and a consecrated Christian. She sought to glorify her Saviors name by every thought and action, and was truly either a mother or a grandmother to all who knew her. She bore her last suffering in patience and in true faith and fortitude. The funeral was held from the church of Christ, Plainview. Dean Brookshire and M. Norvel Young of Lubbock officiated. She was laid to rest beside her husband in the cemetery at Abernathy, Texas.

Mrs. J. T. Stalcup., Daughter.

Gospel Advocate, November 30, 1950, page 782.

Stamper, Annie B.

Annie B. Stamper, daughter of Elder Richard Stamper and Jennie Norfleet Stamper, of the Rose Hill (Tenn.) church of Christ, went home to rest on May 22, 1906. She was born on June 16, 1880, and was baptized by Brother Petty at the age of twelve years. Her life was one of affliction, but was consistent until her death. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.

O. E. Tallman.

Gospel Advocate, October 18, 1906, page 669.

Stamps, J. E.

Brother J. E. Stamps was born in Jackson County, Tenn., in the year 1858. While he was quite young his fathers family moved to Christian County, Ky., where he lived until his death, which occurred on Wednesday, May 7, 1924. When he was nineteen years of age he was married to Miss Virginia Gray, a girl of only fourteen years. This union continued forty-seven years. Two daughters, Mrs. Mabel Miller, of Bowling Green, Ky., and Mrs. Clyde King, of Hopkinsville, Ky., and one son, Dudley, of Lebanon, Ky., were the result of this union. These, with Sister Stamps, are left to mourn the loss of a true husband a loving and kind father. At the age of twenty-four Brother Stamps obeyed the gospel, and he used his influence for the betterment and up-building of the Masters kingdom. His labors were in connection with the work at Little River, Bluff Springs, and Hopkinsville. Brother Stamps was not one of great display, but in his humility was worth a great deal to the church. I have known and loved him since I came to this field, and I shall miss him in the worship here. After a short funeral service by the writer in his home, his body was placed in Riverside Cemetery.

Charles L. Talley.

Gospel Advocate, March 5, 1925, page 234.

Standiford, Jesse

Brother Jesse Standiford was born in Marshall County, W. Va., on March 5, 1835, and departed this life on April 1, 1905, in Fannin County, Texas. He obeyed the gospel in 1865, and was married to Miss Louisa J. Roberts in 1866. They moved to Illinois and lived there until 1876, when they came to Texas, settling near Bonham. He leaves a wife, one daughter, two sisters, one brother, and six grandchildren to mourn their loss. He was studious in his habits, well informed in the Scriptures, regular in the attendance at Lords-day worship, and was a safe counselor at all times. His age and experience gave him the qualifications for an elder, in which capacity he served for many years. He was patient, reasonable, and always appealed to the Word to settle all difficulties. He had been a subscriber to the Gospel Advocate for nearly twenty years. He liked it because it stood firm against the innovations that are causing so much trouble in the churches to-day. To the sorrowing relatives I would say: Weep not as those who have no hope; for they that sleep in Jesus rest from their labors, and their works still live with us. Shall we not so live as to meet our dear brother where parting shall be no more?

L., Bonham, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, June 8, 1905, page 362.

Stanley, Ellen P. Rountree

Sister Ellen P. Rountree was born on March 14, 1846. In the fall of 1860 she was baptized into Christ by Brother E. G. Sewell, at the age of fourteen years. On December 12, 1866, she and Brother W. W. Stanley were united in marriage. After a lingering illness she passed from earth on October 17, 1904; aged fifty-eight years, seven months, and three days. To them were born four children, two daughters and two sons, who are still living. Sister Stanley was a consecrated, devoted woman, as was manifested in her daily life in the capacity of an amiable and virtuous wife, a loving and devoted mother, a ready neighbor and friend. Having given her heart to the Lord before it became contaminated with the evils to which we are subjected here, it seemed but little trouble for her to serve the Master. Becoming a faithful servant of the Lord, the position of wife, mother, neighbor, and friend were easily filled. While we are sure no one lives a faultless life here, nor would Sister Stanley wish me to state as much in regard to her, we can truthfully say she was a true woman at heart, always anxious to do her duty in every relationship in life. While her departure was not at all unexpected, it was a trial for loved ones to give her up. It was her request that no funeral be preached in the modern sense; but she requested that a few songs be sung, some appropriate scriptures read, and such remarks made as might seem appropriate. Brother Stanley has lost a helpmeet indeed; the children, a loving mother, one who was ever ready and willing to make any sacrifice for their good; the church at Fairview, Tenn., one of its most faithful members; and the community, one of its most worthy factors. Brother Stanley and the children know how to meet this dispensation. They sorrow not as those who have no hope. May the Lord bless them abundantly and preserve us all to the heavenly home is my prayer.

W. Anderson.

Gospel Advocate, January 19, 1905, page 45.

Stanley, Harold J.

Harold J. Stanley, 83, minister and longtime supporter of Ohio Valley College, died Jan. 21 in Wheeling.

A minister for more than 50 years, Stanley was associate minister for the National Road congregation in Wheeling at the time of his death. He was full-time minister for several congregations in Ohio and West Virginia. While a student at Freed-Hardeman University, he preached for congregations in Tennessee, Mississippi, Missouri and Kentucky.

During the April 1996 Ohio Valley College Bible lectureship, Stanley and his wife, Madelon, received a Christian Service Award for their contributions to the church and Christian education. Stanley had been a member of the Presidents Council for Christian Education at OVC for several years. He most recently spoke during OVCs 1990 Bible lectureship on the subject, What a Good Wife Has Meant to Me.

Survivors include his wife Madelon; one son, Phillip of Ravenswood, W. Va.; one daughter, Kay Grose of Belpre, Ohio; six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 10 brothers and three sisters.

Wheeling, W. Va.

Gospel Advocate, February, 1997, page 44.

Stanley, Myrtle L.

Myrtle L. Stanley, 1891-1982 Grandma Stanley as she was affectionately called passed from this life on March 10, 1982 after a lengthy illness. Her career was that of a faithful Christian mother! She and her late husband W. R. Stanley, Sr., brought two daughters and five sons into the world. They in turn gave their parents 15 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. All five sons and two daughters are faithful and dedicated Christians. We pray that more ladies will make their career that of being a Christian mother like Grandma Stanley.

Allen Ashlock conducted the funeral. Funeral services were at Nettleton Cemetery, Jonesboro, Ark., on Friday March 12, 1982. An aged saint has left us, but her memory will be with us always.

Allen Ashlock., Bay, Ark.

Gospel Advocate, April 15, 1982, page 246.

Stanley, Rosa Emma

Rosa Emma Swopes was born in New Mexico June 19, 1915. When very young she moved with her parents to Wright County, Missouri. She was the oldest of five children. She was married to W. J. Stanley September 23, 1932. She obeyed the gospel while a teenage girl. Soon after her marriage she persuaded her husband to become a Christian. Brother Stanley has been a faithful gospel preacher many years. He preaches for the church in Lebanon, Missouri.

On January 6, 1970 Sister Stanley passed away. Pneumonia caused her death. She left her faithful husband and four faithful children each of whom is married to a faithful Christian. The children are: Mrs. James Schvelke of Davenport, Iowa; Mrs. Gary McFall of Little Rock, Arkansas; W. J., Jr. of Henryetta, Oklahoma; and Mrs. Bob Hanby of Many, Louisiana. The Stanleys had two other children who died in infancy. Here are some kind, loving words from her husband.

Sister Stanley lived most of her life as a preachers wife; I began preaching the gospel in June, 1938. Her whole life was given to the Lord and his church and in support of my work as a preacher, and in the rearing of our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. No sacrifice was too great or work too long or distasteful if it was for the Lord and her family. She never complained about her lot as a ministers wife. She took in washings; she did babysitting, and worked at various other jobs to help me get through college and to see our children get through school. This writer, Sister Shirley and he knows that what her husband said above is true. Much more could be said of that worthy woman, Rosa Stanley. Not much is written about preachers wives, but many of them would make worthy subjects for writers. Few good preachers would be good preachers were it not for their good wives.

Brother Stanley asked me to express his appreciation and gratitude for all the kindnesses shown him and his family during his trying time.

Basil Overton.

Gospel Advocate, February 26, 1970, page 143.

Stanley, Nora Dortch

Almost to an hour, six months after the last rite had been performed for Tom A. Stanley, of Carters Creek, Tenn., his noble wife, Sara Nora Dortch Stanley, was laid to rest beside her husband in the cemetery at Franklin, Tenn. She is survived by one brother (Oscar L. Dortch, Columbia, Tenn.), one sister (Mrs. J. E. Oakley, of Mount Pleasant, Tenn.), two sons (G. Oscar and Howard A. Stanley). The deceased obeyed the gospel early in life, and remained faithful to the last. Sister Stanley was born at the old Dortch home, north of Columbia, in Maury County, Tenn., June 1, 1870. On November 22, 1894, she was married to T. A. Stanley, and on May 25, 1934, she passed away. On the following day, May 26, the interment took place witnessed by a large assembly of friends and neighbors. E. Gaston Collins and the writer, assisted by J. Leonard Jackson, conducted the funeral services. Flowers were in abundance, and a striking feature was that some of the fresh flowers covered a withered bouquet placed upon the grave of her devote companion by her own hands on Mothers Day, just a short while before her passing. She hath done what she could.

S. P. Pittman.

Gospel Advocate, June 21, 1934, page 608.

Stansberry, Sarah L.

Departed this life at Avondale, Ala., June 2, 1891, of dysentery and inflammation of the stomach, sister Sarah L. Stansberry nee Miles, wife of Bro. B. F. Stansberry. Sister S. was born May 15, 1845, obeyed the gospel in 1878 under the preaching of Bro. Wm. Stringer. She leaves a husband and six children and a host of friends to mourn her loss. Sister S. lived a consistent Christian life to all appearance, so we have hope that the loss of her husband, children and friends, is her gain. Therefore they sorrow not as those that have no hope. We extend our sympathy to the bereaved family and bid them to look to the bright beyond, for a happy meeting again with the loved one that has gone before.

J. T. Dennis., Birmingham, Ala.

Gospel Advocate, August 12, 1891, page 507.

Stark, J. B.

Another soldier of the cross has fallen. Elder J. B. Stark was born on May 7, 1852, and departed this life, at Aurora, Mo., on February 12, 1921. Brother Stark had moved to this city only a few days before his death. After the funeral services his remains were quietly laid to rest in Maple Park Cemetery. He leaves a wife and two daughters and a host of friends to mourn his death. Brother Stark, like most of the gospel preachers, had never accumulated much of this worlds goods, so his wife and children are left to battle with the world for a support.

J. F. Davis.

Gospel Advocate, March 10, 1921, page 244.

Starkey, Fannie Loyd

Sister Fannie Loyd Starkey, daughter of Brother and Sister A. C. Loyd and wife of Brother J. D. Starkey, was born on May 10, 1883, near Bridgeport, Ala. She obeyed the gospel at Rocky Spring in 1895, during a meeting conducted by Brother James H. Morton; and was married to Brother J. D. Starkey on July 23, 1901, by Brother L. S. Gillentine. Sister Starkey became the mother of four children, one of which preceded her to the better land. Early on Friday morning, October 21, 1910, she fell asleep in Jesus, to await the resurrection of the pure and the good, and on the following Sunday afternoon her remains were buried at Rocky Spring. She leaves behind, to mourn her loss, her loved ones, many relatives, friends, and brethren and sisters in Christ; but we sorrow not as those who have no hope, for we believe we shall meet again some sweet day, to part no more. Sister Starkey was an earnest, devoted, faithful Christian, working faithfully in the cause of truth and for the church of the New Testament. She was a devoted, helpful companion in life; a true, loving mother; a kind, sympathetic friend; and a pure, sweet, noble, intelligent woman. Funeral services were conducted by the writer.

Charles Holder.

Gospel Advocate, March 9, 1911, page 311.

Starks, James A.

Another soldier of the cross has entered into that peaceful slumber that knows no waking until that hour in which they that are in their graves shall hear his voice, and come forth; they have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. Brother James A. Starks was born Aug. 21, 1841; born into the kingdom of God when quite a young man; and worshiped at Berea, the oldest congregation in Logan County, until the congregation at Antioch, same county, was organized, to which place he then moved his membership, and where he was still a member when his summons to death came, Dec. 29, 1896. Death did not find him unawares. Three years ago he had an apoplectic stroke, since which time he has lived in constant expectation of his call to pass over the river, and rest in the shade. The large crowd of people that attended his funeral service, which was held by the writer at his residence, showed the high esteem in which he was held in the community where he lived. He leaves a wife, a large family of children, and many relatives and friends who will sadly miss him; but their loss is doubtless his gain, and to them I would say: Sorrow not even as others which have no hope; we shall meet again. Imitate all of his godly virtues, and put your trust in him who says he is a Father to the fatherless and a Husband to the widow. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth; yea, saith, the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.

R. W. Norwood.

Gospel Advocate, March 4, 1897, page 139.

Starks, Leonidas Fletcher

Leonidas Fletcher Starks was born in Simpson County, Ky., on May 29, 1863. He was baptized by Brother Sewell in his sixteenth year. He was married to Miss Fannie Halcomb in 1881. To this union seven children were bornthree sons and four daughters. He died on July 6, 1914. Thus passes from labor to reward a valiant soldier of the cross, a beloved shepherd of the flock of God, a pillar of the church, whose death will be sincerely mourned in widely separated sections of the country. He established the worship of God in this community in 1898 and was appointed elder in 1901. Brother Starks was a natural leader of men, and few men have been as successful in the eldership, while his zeal for the spread of the gospel is well known to many of our preacher. His success in life is due very largely to the influence of Sister Starks. May the God of all comfort bless her and all the children in this great sorrow. A great multitude gathered at the place of meeting, where the writer spoke from Heb. 13:7. Brethren Ben Elston and James Montgomery assisted. We hope to meet him in glory.

Frank Ellmore., Manchester, Okla.

Gospel Advocate, July 23, 1914, page 800.

Starling, Harry L.

Harry L. Starling was born to J. S. and Julie Starling at Ravenden, Ark., on October 28, 1899, and departed this life in Florissant, Mo., on September 30, 1961, at the age of sixty-one years and eleven months. He graduated from the Sloan-Hendricks Academy at Imboden, Ark., and later in life was a student at Harding College for three years. His was a busy life as a public school teacher and gospel preacher. Twenty years were spent teaching in Arkansas. Brother Starling obeyed the gospel in 1910 and did his first preaching at Commissary and Croft College, near Paragould, Ark. He served as full-time minister at Judsonia, Ark., Licking, Mo., Rosemont, East St. Louis, Ill., Carbondale, Ill., Belleville, Ill., St. Charles, Mo., Melbourne, Fla., and Owensville, Mo., where he was living when he became ill. Funeral services were conducted by this writer in St. Louis on October 3. Survivors include his wife, the former Dollie Ratcliff; two sons, Ralph, minister of the Richland Heights church in Fort Worth, Texas, and J. W. of Florissant, Mo., and one daughter, Mrs. Robert Chilton of OFallon, Mo.

Hobart E. Ashby.

Gospel Advocate, November 2, 1961, page 702.

Starling, Oscar Thomas

Oscar Thomas Starling was born in Lowndes County, Ga., Dec. 23, 1889, to Green R. and Amanda McLeod Starling, and went home to be with his Lord, July 11, 1981. He settled in Orange County, Fla., almost 50 years ago and he, his wife, Allie Chastain Starling, and their family contributed greatly to the growth of the church in those parts.

The church at Winter Garden began from Bible studies in the Starling home in 1933. The church in Ocoee had a similar beginning about 1935. O. T. and Allie Starling were charter members at the Plymouth congregation about 1951. The last two years of their lives were spent as members at North Ocoee congregation. Oscar Starling served as an elder at Ocoee, Plymouth and North Ocoee.

Brother Starling helped to establish Christian Home and Bible School at Mount Dora, Fla., in 1944 being an original board member, soon Chairman of the Board.

With his skill in the building trades, Brother Starling contributed substantially to the construction of five meeting houses.

Sister Starling preceded Brother Starling in death by only nine months and 13 days.

Survivors include two sons, Lester L. and Philip T. and one daughter. Daris Chastain.

Gospel Advocate, September 3, 1981, page 537.

Starnes, E. Trine

Dr. E. Trine Starnes, 78, died of a heart attack in Houston March 15.

Born in Savoy, Texas, he graduated from Chickasha High School in Oklahoma in 1931. After graduating from Abilene Christian University in 1936, he began his 47-year preaching career, during which time he preached at North Oak and South Side churches of Christ in Mineral Wells; Broadway Church of Christ, Paducah, Ky.; and Columbus Avenue Church of Christ, Waco, Texas, for which he preached 16 years. During his stay in Waco, he helped establish six new congregations. He married Malissa Claxton, who graduated with him from ACU, Sept. 1, 1939.

Starnes was host of a weekly TV program, Walk with the Master, for 10 years. He received an honorary doctorate from ACU, and he and his wife have received the ACU Christian Service Award. The Trine and Malissa Starnes Center for Preaching and Evangelism in ACUs Biblical Studies Building was dedicated in 1989.

Survivors include his wife; one daughter, Malissa Ruth Baugh, Temple, Tenn.; two sons, Warren Starnes, Phoenix, and Trine Starnes Jr., California; one sister, Lula Mae Badgett, Scranton, Pa., and nine grandchildren.

Services were March 17 at the Memorial Church of Christ in Houston with arrangements by the George H. Lewis Funeral Home. Robert D. Hunter, William J. Teague and Jack Pope officiated.

Memorials should be made to the Trine and Malissa Starnes Center for Preaching and Evangelism, Abilene Christian University, ACU Station, Box 7842, Abilene, TX 7699-7842

Gospel Advocate, July, 1992, page 37.

Starnes, Garland Norwood

Garland Norwood Starnes departed this life October 15, 1970. He was born August 10, 1882, at Bluff City, Arkansas. He became a Christian at an early age and began a lifetime of Christian work. He taught school for many years and hundreds of former pupils testify of his influence on them, both secularly and religiously.

In the 1920s he became associated with The Washington Manufacturing Company of Nashville and traveled the state of Arkansas as a clothing salesman for them for over forty years. He became a close friend of the illustrious Comer family of Nashville, founders of Washington Manufacturing Company. Over the years of calling on hundreds of customers he became known statewide as an honest, sincere, exuberant salesman. In his travels he was never too busy to pause and worship and aid the churches in the towns.

He moved to Little Rock in 1931 and worshipped from that time on to his death at the Fourth and State congregation, now Sixth and Izard, serving a time as an elder and teaching Bible school for thirty-five years.

This was a man who lived well and died well. His funeral services were officiated in Little Rock by John Gibson and Larry Roberts and in Bluff City by his nephew, Trine Starnes, and Wilkie Moore.

Tom Starnes.

Gospel Advocate April 8, 1971, page 223.

Starnes, Lee

On Monday evening, November 23, 1970 from the Cox Medical Center in Springfield, Missouri, the spirit of Lee Starnes was separated from his afflicted body to return to God. He would have been 83 on December 6. Memorial service was conducted by the writer at the South National church building on November 25. As a gospel preacher for more than fifty years, Brother Starnes had influenced thousands. Several preachers of today were baptized by him. He preached publicly his last sermon in 1968, but the sermon of his life was being preached up to the five days before his death, when a stroke had cut off his consciousness and speech. Churches at Broadway and Madison, Johnston and Dale in Springfield and at Marshfield were among the churches he had served. Lee Starnes was one of twelve children. Until November a year ago all twelve survived. With the passing of Lee, eight remain. Several of this remarkable family have experienced fiftieth wedding anniversaries. Brother Starnes and his faithful wife, Nora, celebrated their fifty-first anniversary on October 5. In addition to his widow, four brothers and four sisters, he is survived by one son, W. E. Bull Starnes of Springfield and three granddaughters. Interment was in the Springfield Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

Wyatt L. Kirk.

Gospel Advocate, December 17, 1970, page 815.

Starnes, Warren E.

Another stalwart soldier of the cross, Warren E. Starnes, passed quietly from this life August 20, in Waco, Texas, at the age of eighty-three years. We believe that death came as a benefactor, ending the long days of suffering which he bore so courageously. Warren E. Starnes was born May 4, 1880, in Bluff City, Ark. He was baptized in 1896 by George W. Spurlock, and began preaching the gospel shortly after the turn of the century. For nearly sixty years he faithfully served as the preacher for churches in Savoy, Dallas, Houston, San Angelo, Greenville, Texarkana, Gainsville, Ozona, Mart, and Cameron, Texas; in Chickasha, Henrietta, Ardmore, and Edmond, Okla.; and in Waldo Ark. He was married to Lillie Velma Macon February 10, 1910. He was the father of Lula Mae Badgett, wife of Kenneth Badgett, gospel preacher of Dover, Del., and Trine Starnes, evangelist of Waco, Texas. A memorial service was conducted Wednesday afternoon, August 21, in the Columbus Avenue church auditorium, Waco, Texas, with the writer, local preacher, officiating. A large host of Christian brethren and other friends were present. A similar commemorative service was conducted Thursday afternoon, August 22, in the church building at Bluff City, Ark., with a large number of relatives and friends present. Cleon Lyles of Little Rock, long-time friend of the Starnes family, delivered the funeral address and Trine Starnes spoke briefly at the service. Burial followed the service at Bluff City, community of Brother Starnes nativity. Some lives are to all outward judgment fruitless. Not so with the life of Brother Starnes. During those eighty-three years his delight was in the laws of the Lord. He was one of those rare men who loved God with all of his heart, and soul, and mind and strength. We can never forget his knowledge of the Scriptures, devotion to God, zest for living, and righteous influence, which lives on in the lives of his son, daughter and grandchildren. He is out of our sight, but not out of our hearts. We rejoice in the trust that his name shines bright as day in the Lambs book of life and that one day we may be reunited with him in the courts of heaven. (Pictured included)

Dick Daughtry.

Gospel Advocate, September 19, 1963, page 607.

Starnes, Warren Ellison

Warren Ellison Starnes was born the oldest of eleven children to Tom and Molly Starnes May 4, 1880. He lived a humble dedicated Christian life as a faithful teacher and gospel preacher. His roots, of Arkansas origin were deeply set by a loving grandmother who was a determined believer in labor as the best way of life. He never had patience with laziness, otherwise was a tolerant man.

His oldest child, Trine, was a source of companionship and joy I have observed in few others. The devotion was mutual and a beautiful example of father and son. When death came to the valiant soldier of the cross after fifty years of proclaiming the word, Trine bowed his head in thankfulness and asked for continued blessings for our mother who lived five years longer.

He made friends from all walks of life and even his mechanic came to express words of comfort when he died. He loved life and lived it to the fullest admiring nature and feeling Gods presence in all his earthly pilgrimage. He loved such men as Charlie Nichols, Charles H. Roberson and many others. How blessed one is with such memories.

Lula Mae Starnes Badgett.

Gospel Advocate, January 11, 1979, page 29.

Starr, Gaston

Brother Gaston Starr was born on November 28, 1881; was baptized by Brother C. E. Holt in July, 1914; and died of tuberculosis on December 6, 1916. For many months it had been evident, both to Brother Starr and his friends, that his stay on earth would not be long, and he frequently expressed himself as being willing to go. His last days were made brighter by frequent and regular visits of members of the Catoma Street Church, for which he never failed to show due appreciation. When the end came, he was happy that his sufferings were over, and said to his heartbroken mother: Ill be watching for you at the beautiful gate. Such an hour in which to die, to say nothing of the bliss of eternity, is more than a recompense for all the sacrifices one is called upon to make in the Christian life. Besides his wife, he leaves a mother who now mourns the loss of the sixth member of her family in the past eight years.

C. M. Stubblefield.

Gospel Advocate, March 8, 1917, page 245.

Stauber, Edna

A beautiful life came to a close on August 15, 1932, when the Masters call was answered by Mrs. Edna Stauber at her late home in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the age of thirty years. She will be remembered in Lawrenceburg, where she spent her early days, as Miss Edna Williams, before her marriage to George Stauber, September 1, 1924. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Williams, of Old Hickory, Tenn., formerly of Lawrenceburg, Tenn. The sorrowing friends and loved ones, with the profusion of beautiful flowers, attested the love and esteem in which she was held. But grief cannot hold its shadow for long because of the hope that she is now at rest. Edna heeded the admonition, Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, and obeyed the gospel at the age of sixteen. Funeral services were conducted by the writer and Brother Stribling, at the home of the undertaker, C. L. Williams. Burial at Mimosa Cemetery in Lawrenceburg. She leaves her husband, father, mother, one sister, and three brothers, also an aged grandfather, L. C. Moore, and many other relatives, to mourn her death, and it is to them that we offer our sympathy.

T. C. King.

Gospel Advocate, December 1, 1932, page 1293.

St. Clair, Verma

On the fourth Lords day in September, 1912, we were called upon to preach the funeral of Sister Verma St. Clair, daughter of Brother and Sister Tom Gatis and wife of Brother Oscar St. Clair. Sister St. Clair had been a wife about three years. She was baptized by the writer last July, and was faithful to the cause she had espoused until her death. She leaves a father, a mother, a husband, one sister, three brothers, and a host of friends that miss her. Though a Christian only a short time, we trust that she will reap the reward of the just. She departed this life on September 21, 1912, at the age of twenty-two years.

R. W. Jernigan.

Gospel Advocate, May 8, 1913, page 453.

Steadman, Frank Etter

The subject of this sketch, Frank Etter Steadman, was born Sept. 1, 1872, and departed this life Oct. 7, 1893. Sister Frankey embraced the gospel and was baptized by the writer Nov. 12, 1889. She was married to John Steadman, at the residence of her father R. G. Bowers, Jan. 1, 1893; the writer performed the ceremony. She died as she had lived, a faithful child of God. To know her was to love her. She leaves a husband, a dear little babe, a father, a mother, two brothers, two sisters, and a host of relatives and friends to mourn their loss. They sorrow not as those who have no hope, but, resting in the promises of God, they patiently wait and look for a happy reunion in heaven. We sympathize and weep with the sorrowing husband, parents, brothers and sisters, but rejoice in her hope of immortality. Oh, may each one of us be prepared to meet her beyond the river of death!

Rufus Green.

Gospel Advocate, November 9, 1893, page 716.

Steakley, E. S.

E. S. Steakley, sixty-six, of Sanford, Fla., formerly of Sparta, Tenn., died at his home following an extended illness. Funeral services were conducted at the church building in Sanford. The writer officiated. Burial was in the Oaklawn Memorial Cemetery. Brother Steakley served as an elder in the church in Sanford for a number of years. He had been engaged in retail grocery business in Sanford for the past thirty-one years. Survivors are his wife, Lola Mae Steakley, a son, James Steakley, Sarasota; a daughter, Mrs. James Padgett, Orlando; six brothers, W. E. Steakley, Atlanta, Ga.; James and Clarence Steakley of Chattanooga; Charlie B. Steakley, Nashville, Tenn.; John M. Steakley, Sheffield, Ala.; Karl Steakley, Aiken, S. C.; two sisters, Mrs. S. C. Patterson, Atlanta; Mrs. Pearl Earle Steakley, Nashville; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Ralph Brewer, Jr.

Gospel Advocate, September 13, 1956, page 775.

Steakly, Mary

Mary Steakly was born in the year 1863; was born again into the family of God in 1908, under the preaching of Brother Will J. Cullum; and died on July 23, 1926. Her beautiful life is more effectual than any sermon or tribute that could be spoken or written of her. Her memory will ever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved her best, and the influence of her life will be felt by many. Funeral services were conducted by the writer in the Locust Grove meetinghouse, and the remains were laid to rest in the little cemetery hard by. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; for their works follow with them. She leaves, to mourn her loss, a companion and eight children, with a great number of friends and loved ones. Two of her girls are consistent Christians. To the companion and other children I would say: Obey the gospel without delay, then live consistently with the other two, and there will be a happy reunion just over the river.

Boyd Fanning.

Gospel Advocate, October 7, 1926, page 953.

Steel, John W.

John W. Steel was born on November 23, 1851; was married to Mary A. L. Buchanan on September 15, 1874; obeyed the gospel of Christ about thirty-five years ago; and died on January 20, 1909. His neighbors and those that knew him well testify that he lived a faithful and devoted life. He was a useful member of the church at Donelson, Tenn., manifesting a lively interest in the prosperity of the cause at that place. He was devoted and faithful as husband and father, exerting a good influence in his family and in the neighborhood where he lived, and a large audience was present at the funeral to show their respect for the dead and to manifest their sympathy for the bereaved family. He leaves a wife, three children, and also many relatives and friends, to bear the loss of one they loved. By all these, and by the congregation of which he was a member, the loss of Brother Steel will be deeply felt. But they will not sorrow as those who have no hope; and if they will all follow his example in faithfully serving the Lord to the end of life, they may meet him where these sad farewells will no more be felt or feared.

E. G. S.

Gospel Advocate, February 11, 1909, page 183.

Steele, Annie Moore

Annie Moore, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Steele, was born on September 24, 1887; was baptized into Christ by Brother Felix Sowell in 1904; and died on June 9, 1907. Sister Annie is said, by those that knew her, to have been an earnest Christian girl; pleasant and affectionate at home, kind and gentle toward her associates, and esteemed by all as faithful in all the relations she sustained. She was in her twentieth year when the fatal typhoid fever carried her into the beyond. She was a treasure in the family, highly esteemed in the church and esteemed by all who knew her. She had attended to the one thing needful, the salvation of her soul, by entering into and continuing in the service of the Lord until death. Thus she leaves to her family and friends the joys and consolations of the precious hope of the gospel of Christ. Let her family and friends also be faithful to the Lord until death, and they may meet her in the home where changes never come, and where sad farewells will never again be said.

E. G. S.

Gospel Advocate, June 27, 1907, page 414.

Steele, Billy R.

On the morning of Dec. 15, 1981, at the age of 53, Billy R. Steele, Apple Grove, W. Va., lost his life in a tragic automobile accident while on his way to work.

He is survived by his wife, Dortha, a daughter Pamela, a son Billy, Jr., and by two sisters and one brother. Another brother preceded him in death.

He had lived in Mason County, W. Va., all his life and had worked with the Mason County school system for 33 years. For the past 14 years he had been Director of ESEA Title I.

Billy was well known in education in West Virginia and in the church around the Mason County area. He had a great love for singing and had led the singing in many congregations for gospel meetings. At the time of his death he was preaching for two congregations on a regular basis. On Sunday mornings he preached at Evergreen in rural Putnam County and on Sunday evenings and Wednesday evenings he worked with the Glenwood congregation in Mason County.

Gene Zopp, minister at Henderson, W. Va., delivered a beautiful message at the funeral service conducted December 17 at the church building in Henderson.

His presence will surely be missed but we thank God that we shared him and his love for his fellow man and his warm smile for a short time.

John Steele., 3490 S.R. 38 NE, Washington, Court House, Ohio 43160.

Gospel Advocate, February 18, 1982, page 122.

Steele, Samuel

Brother Samuel Steele died, at his home, ten miles east of Nashville, Tenn., on May 30, 1903. He was born in White County, Tenn., a few miles east of Smithville, now the county seat of DeKalb County, in June, 1822. From there he came to Davidson County in 1846, and had lived here ever since. Before leaving the place of his nativity, he became a Christian, being baptized by Brother Jesse Sewell. On January 5, 1851, he married Miss Mary Binkley. For thirty-four years, hand in hand, they trod the path of life. To them were born ten children. The wife and mother died on August 8, 1884. In 1886 he married Mrs. Kelly (a widow), of Williamson County, Tenn., who in his declining years helped him to pass the time, in sickness and in health, in that way and manner becoming a good wife. Three of his children preceded him to the grave. Brother Steele was loved and respected by all who knew him. His integrity was unquestioned; he strove to do right. His Christian character was above reproach; he read the Book, believed what it taught, and tried to shape his conduct by its precepts. He was an honored member of the congregation at Donelson, Tenn.; and the great number of friends and acquaintances who attended his funeral attested the esteem in which he was held. His family and friends may sorrow, but they should be comforted by the hope that he has attained unto an defiled, and that fadeth not away. May all profit by his example strive to emulate his virtues, covering his faults with the mantle of charity. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

James E. Scobey.

Gospel Advocate, June 18, 1903, page 394.

Steers, Samuel

Died, July 6, at Cairo, Ill., Brother Samuel Steers. His home was in America, Ill. Brother Steers was born in Springfield, Ill., April 7, 1835. Soon afterward his parents moved to Southern Illinois, and located in Pulaski county, here he was married, in 1859, to Miss Mary McClelland. In 1863 he became a member of the Church of Christ at Grand Chain, Ill., and has lived a faithful and consecrated life until called to his reward by the voice of God. He leaves a wife and six children to mourn their loss. While our hearts are sad, we feel that our loss is his gain. May the great Physician heal the troubled and bereft hearts.

Elder I. A. J. Parker.

Gospel Advocate, August 24, 1893, page 533.

Steffey, Ila McElroy

Mrs. Ila McElroy Steffey was born at Smithfield, in Tarrant County, Texas, April 10, 1914; she passed away at 2:45 P.M., January 5, 1946, at the St. Joseph Hospital, in Kansas City, Mo., at the age of thirty-one years, eight months, and twenty-five days. She was baptized by Early Arceneaux in the summer of 1925, when she was eleven years of age. She moved, with her parents, Brother and Sister E. H. McElroy, to Norman, Okla., September 4, 1925. She was married to Robert L. Steffey at El Reno, Okla., August 28, 1937. As the daughter of a gospel preacher and one who had the training of a Christian home, she was very faithful member of the church and seldom ever missed a service when able to attend. She had been a member of the churches in Norman, Okla.; Tenth and Francis, in Oklahoma City, Okla.; Fourteenth Street Church, in Washington, D. C.; and Thirty-Ninth and Flora, in Kansas City, Mo. Funeral services were conducted in the Central Church auditorium, in Norman, Okla., January 9, 1946, by the writer, assisted by John G. Reese. Sister Steffey is survived by her husband (Robert L. Steffey), her parents (Mr. and Mrs. E. H. McElroy), seven brothers (C. S., Barclay, Emmett, Franklin, Dovert, Errett, and Ray McElroy), and four sisters (Mrs. Bernice Marrs, Mrs. Verdie Modessette, Mrs. Evelyn Volz, and Mrs. Jewel Gibson). She had been in ill-health for over two years. On December 26, 1945, she entered the hospital with heart trouble. From this illness she never recovered. She was laid to rest in the Rose Hill Cemetery, in Oklahoma City, January 9.

John P. Lewis., 1130 Trout, Norman, Okla.

Gospel Advocate, February 7, 1946, page 143.

Stell, Martha

Many hearts were made sad to learn of the passing of Sister J. H. Stell, mother of our beloved preacher, Brother Brooks Stell, of Delight, Ark. We cannot speak too highly of Aunt Martha. As a Christian, a wife, and a mother, we believe she was just what God wants. Seemingly, every step she took was following her Master. While yet in her teens she enlisted under the blood-stained banner of King Immanuel, and for sixty-one years she stood faithful and true, ever looking to Jesus the author and finisher of her faith. It was in and through Christ that she fought the battles of life, and when the time came for her to lay her armor down she quietly placed it at Jesus feet and died in the triumphs of a living faith. She possessed many fine characteristics, among which was her talent as home keeper. Her hospitality was unexcelled. Many of our great and good preachers remember her home as a real preachers home, and all who came her way were welcome. She was always helping and caring for the unfortunate. She gave motherly advice to many boys and girls. She could sweetly say, as did Paul: I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. Sister Stell was the devoted mother of twelve childreneight boys and four girls. Three boys preceded her in death several years. By the eye of faith we see Mother Stell as her soul basks in the sunlight of a Saviors love. She is sweetly resting in the paradise of God till the great trump shall sound and all will be gathered before the great white throne to receive rewards according to the deeds done in the body. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord

from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them. I would say to those of her children that are in Christ, mothers guiding hand is still before you, warning you to be faithful till death; and to those that have not enlisted in the army of the Lord, mother still points to the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. She is beckoning for you to meet her over yonder where all will be joy, peace, and bliss forevermore.

Mrs. W. L. McDougald.

Gospel Advocate, March 24, 1932, page 383.

Stem, Bettie

Sister Bettie Stem, wife of Green Stem, was born on September 17, 1860, and departed this life on November 27, 1922. She was married three times, her first marriage was to John Pinkerton. Of this marriage there were six children: Jose, of Link; Nat, of Murfreesboro; John, of Nashville; Mrs. H. N. Smotherman, of Murfreesboro; Mrs. J. W. Gentry, of Christiana; and Mrs. Sumner Smotherman, of Concord. By the second marriage, one childElmore Overstreet, of Nashville. She also left one brother, E. D. Smotherman, of Link. Bettie was a good woman and a member of the church for a number of years. Funeral services were conducted by the writer at New Zion Church. Burial at Haynes Grove. I commend her husband and all of her children and relatives to God, who is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among all those that are sanctified. May we all hold out faithful to the end.

J. S. Westbrooks.

Gospel Advocate, February 1, 1923, page 111.

Stephens, Harriette Francis

On the morning of December 31, 1905, Sister Harriette Francis (Mayes) Stephens spirit took its leave of this earth. Sister Stephens was born on July 21, 1863. She was baptized into Christ on September 24, 1879, and was married to Brother James D. Stephens, of Richmond, Tenn. on May 22, 1898. She leaves a husband, one child (a babe), and a host of friends to mourn their loss. Sister Stephens suffered with white swelling since she was fourteen years old. She became a Christian at the age of sixteen years, and until the hour of her death she was a devoted Christian. She was kind and gentle to every one and was much beloved by all who knew her. We believe her beautiful life will still bless the community in which she lived, for God has said of all such lovely characters: They rest from their labors; and their works do follow them. To all her relatives and friends I would say, with Paul: Sorrow not for those who sleep in Christ, even as others which have no hope.

E. L. Cambron., Winchester, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, February 1, 1906, page 77.

Stephens, Hattie

Sister Hattie Stephens, wife of J. D. Stephens, was born on July 21, 1863, and died on December 31, 1905. She obeyed the gospel in 1879, and died, as she had lived since her obedience, strong in the faith. She possessed many noble traits of character, winning and retaining true friends where she lived. The last ten weeks of her life she suffered much, but she bore it with patient resignation. She spoke of death with calmness, saying her way was clear. During her illness she had the untiring care of a devoted husband, as well as the skillful attention of an able physician; but death came, filling many hearts with grief. Yet we weep not as those that have no hope, for we are fully assured that our loved one is at rest. Sister Stephens leaves a husband and a sweet little babe (William Lewis), two sisters and two brothers, and many relatives and friends to mourn her departure; and to them we offer our heartfelt sympathy in their sad bereavement, and pray God to help and bless them. May they all so live as to be united in that home where sorrow and trials never come and where God will wipe away all tears.

(Mrs.) U. S. Brown.

Gospel Advocate, February 1, 1906, page 77.

Stephens, J. T.

On Sunday, Sept., 30, 1894, at his home, near Woodbury, Brother J. T. Stephens departed this life, leaving a wife and three children of tender years to mourn their loss. He was a native of this place, being born here forty-seven years ago April 4 last. From his boyhood he was energetic, industrious, and prosperous in business. He was conscientious and reliable in all his business undertakings, and faithful in all his trusts. He joined the Christian Church at this place about nine years ago, and as was characteristic of the man in every walk in life, he began his Christian warfare with great zeal and devotion, which grew stronger every day up to the time of his death. For several years he was a leader in our churchofficiating on all occasions that demanded his services. He never faltered or drew back, but with a devotion and a spirit truly beautiful he undertook to perform every duty that his hands found to do, either in official work in the church or in ministering to the poor and needy wherever found. The suffering and needy did not turn away from him empty-handed. He loved to raise the fallen and cheer the faint. In the domestic circle he was almost beyond comparisonprovident, careful, and tender to his loved ones as but few are. His home was a happy one. A loving, dutiful wife he leaves to care for his little ones; and she, too, is a devoted Christian, and with the eye of faith can look beyond the dark river to a happy reunion on the other shore.

As a friend he was as true and unfailing as the needle to the pole, and to the writer of this notice he was as a brother from childhood. Dear Joe, with you goes another of the ties that have made this life joyous, and the shadows are falling thick around, but hope and faith come to us with light and promise for the hereafter.

His Friend.

Gospel Advocate, October 25, 1894, page 678.

Stephens, Jesse Jordan

Jesse Jordan Stephens was born in Nashville, Tennessee, September 13, 1890, the son of Josephine and Wilson Smith Stephens, and spent most of his life in Nashville. He was an employee of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad for forty-eight years. He was married to Miss Maude Ellen McCarver May 3, 1911. To this union were born a son and a daughter.

J. J. Stephens was baptized into Christ in 1912. He taught Bible classes in the church for more than fifty years. At one time he had a class of seventy-five young people at the Shelby Avenue church. He was an elder in the Shelby Avenue church for forty years.

Brother Stephens loved God, loved the Bible, loved the preaching of the gospel, loved the church, loved people, and wanted to help save as many people as possible. He passed from this life Sunday afternoon, November 23, 1969, at the age of seventy-nine.

Funeral services were conducted in the building of the Shelby Avenue church of Christ. Paul Dillingham and James R. Greer conducted the funeral service.

Survivors include his wife of Nashville: Mrs. Alyne Sobleman, a daughter, of Miami, Florida; the son, Jordan Cook Stephens, Garden Grove, California and two grandsons, Philip Wayne Lark, Miami, and Jordan David Stephens of Los Angeles.

James R. Greer.

Gospel Advocate, April 2, 1970, page 223.

Stephens, Jesse W.

Jesse W. Stephens was born Feb. 1, 1913, in Benton, Ky., and was deceased Feb. 18, 1984. For more than 50 years he served as minister of the gospel in several cities throughout California and Oregon, including: Antioch, Modesto, Hayward, Visalia, Sonora, Eugene, and most recently in Clovis, Calif. He received his training at Harding University. Brother Stephens played a key role in starting the church in Hawaii and was delivering his Sunday morning sermon on the radio when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, his three children: Deanna Patton of Antioch, Calif.; Ronald Stephens of Agoura, Calif.; and Dale Stephens of South Lake Tahoe, Calif.; his brother George Stephens of Yuba City, Calif.; his sister Lilly Pasley of Oakley, Calif.; and his sister Pearl Stephens of Oklahoma City.

During his ministry he baptized more than one thousand souls, married hundreds of couples, and mended countless broken hearts. His life was characterized by commitment, competence, courage, and care. He left a legacy of love, of service, of hope, and of victory. He will be deeply missed by the members of the church and by friends he so faithfully served.

Gospel Advocate, July 5, 1984, page 410.

Stephens, Maggie

Sister Maggie Stephens was born on April 28, 1868, and departed this life on January 23, 1920. Of her fathers family, she is survived by her father, one brother, and three sisters, all of whom are in Texas. Her husband and five daughters also are left to mourn her loss. She was sick about five weeks during her last illness before the end finally came. Her loved ones always remained near her, hoping that her sweet life might be spared. All that loving hearts could devise and tender hands perform was done to allay her suffering and restore her strength, but all was of no avail. The voice of the Master had called her and she could not but obey. Nor did she seek to question his providence in calling her, but faced death calmly and peacefully, and frequently remarked: I am ready to go. Although she was cut off before she had lived out her threescore years and ten, her life was more fruitful of good works than are the lives of many who are much older than she. She was a faithful worker in the church, and her loss will be deeply felt in her home congregation at Woodbury, Tenn. Any preacher of the gospel might always find a welcome in her home. Of a quiet, rather timid nature, she was, nevertheless, ready at all times to do, not merely what might be termed her part, but all that she could do for the glory of God and the service of humanity. As a result of her noble work, together with that of her faithful husband, the five daughtersfour of whom are married---are all active and loyal workers in the church of Christ. Verily, she hath wrought a good work.

Charles B. Brewer.

Gospel Advocate, March 25, 1920, page 310.

Stephenson, Edwin

Edwin Stephenson, colored, about thirty-six years of age, died April 10, 1891, near Kendrick, Miss. From the age of fourteen he took great interest in the study of the Bible and in a few years began to teach it to his people. He stood in the gospel of Christ, was devoted to it and never dared to add to it or substitute for it the innovations of men. Most of his work for four or five years before his death was about McMinnville, Lynchburg and Morrison, Tenn., where he made an average every year, of some seventy-five additions to the church. May they strive as he did to be honest upright and useful and reach at last the better land.

A. R. Kendrick., Kendrick, Miss.

Gospel Advocate, May 20, 1891, page 309.

Stephenson, George H.

George H. Stephenson, 80, died Feb. 2. He served as minister for several congregations in Texas cities: Arlington, Collinsville, Whitesboro, Wichita Falls, Fort Worth, Lubbock and Healdton. He also served churches in Tyler, Okla., and Memphis, Tenn.

While he was minister at the Broadway Church in Lubbock, it was the largest church of Christ in the nation.

A graduate of Abilene Christian University, Stephenson preached in gospel meetings, served as chaplain three years for the Fort Worth Optimist Club and 13 years for the Tyler Optimist Club. He also spoke at college Bible lectureships and served on the board of directors of Boles Childrens Home in Quilan, Texas.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Alice of Collinsville; two sons, Terry of Bullard, Texas, and John David of Nashville, Tenn.; a daughter, Linda Harris of Farmers Branch, Texas; a sister, Emma Lou Voelkle; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Collinsville, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, June, 1996, page 45.

Stephenson, Mattie B.

The soul of Sister Mattie B. Stephenson (nee Ferguson), near Little Lot, Tenn., was liberated from its tenement of clay on April 10, 1916, to cross over the ocean of death, to dwell with the redeemed in Paradise. Sister Stephenson was forty-nine years old. She was born on March 3, 1867. When about twenty years of age, she was born again, born into the family of God, and hence became an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ. She was married to John V. Stephenson on January 27, 1887, and the union was blessed with five sons and one daughter, all of whom are left to mourn the loss of a mother and companion. Sister Stephenson was a helpmate to her husband, indeed. By good judgment and industry she had assisted Brother Stephenson in securing a comfortable home, and this home was presided over by a real keeper at home. She loved her home and loved to prepare for her family and friends. The preachers will not forget the tireless efforts of Sister Stephenson to provide for their comfort, as this was their home while conducting meetings at Bethel Church. Her husband an all her children are Christians, except two small ones, who will doubtless reflect their good mothers example and teachings before long by obeying the gospel. While the body reposes under the green mound on the hill near by, this dear one is resting on the evergreen shore, where all tears are wiped away, and where there is no more death, nor pain, for these are all passed awaya home of perfect comfort whose occupants are filled and thrilled with boundless joy. Loved ones left behind would not call her back to this world of sorrow, but will strive to go where she is, where the happy ties of a family reunion will never be broken. May the good Lord bless Brother Stephenson and his children in their sadness. It is sad to give up a loved one. But beyond the dark clouds of this life lies the realm of endless bliss. Later on the grand old ship of Zion will land you in the city of God, where you can clasp hands forever.

H. W. Wrye.

Gospel Advocate, June 15, 1916, page 607.

Stephenson, Susan Thornton

Susan Thornton Stephenson was born in Hickman County, Tenn., November 11, 1865; died December 1, 1935, at the home of her son, Earl J. Stephenson, in Jackson, Tenn. She was the daughter of David M. and Martha B. Thornton. In 1883 she was married to Franklin J. Stephenson at Pinewood, Tenn., and spent many years in that community. To this union eight sons and one daughter were born; and of this number, six sons survive (Earl J., F. J., Edgar B., and J. Roy, all of Jackson; Clarence, of Corinth, Miss.; and Byrd W., of Ancon, C. Z.). One sister also survives (Mrs. Jennie Register, of Dallas, Texas), and three brothers (S. B. Thornton, Atlanta, Ga.; R. C. Thornton, Jackson, Tenn.; and E. J. Thornton, St. Louis, Mo.). Early in life Sister Stephenson obeyed the gospel in the little village of Pinewood. A living testimony to her life of sincerity as a Christian is to be found in the sons who survive her. Living in Jackson twenty-seven years, the family is highly respected, and most of the sons are workers in the church. The oldest, Earl J., has served as a deacon for many years, and is one of the best-loved workers in the congregation where the family worships. Throughout her life Sister Stephenson was an example of dignity and decorum befitting a Christian gentlewoman. Sister Stephenson was laid to rest in Hollywood Cemetery, Jackson, on December 6. W. Claude Hall conducted the services at the church in Jackson, of which he is local minister.

Ruby R. Scott.

Gospel Advocate, December 26, 1935, page 1247.

Stevens, Annie Hubbard

Annie Hubbard was born to David C. and Sarah McCall Hubbard in their Smith County home, near Carthage, Tenn., April 12, 1871. She became a Christian early in life. In 1893 Annie was married to John B. Stevens. To this union one son was born to bless the home. But the blessing was short-lived, as the child died in his infancy, leaving just the blessed memory of the parents during the years that followed. Sister Stevens is survived by one sister, Mrs. Minnie H. Stephenson, of Seattle, Wash. A number of nephews and nieces also survive, who will continue to cherish the memory of an unusually worthy and devoted aunt. For the past eight years Sister Stevens was comfortably and happily located with the Old Womans Home, on West End Avenue, Nashville, Tenn. For many years Sister Annie did nursing, an excellent field for the exercise of her sympathy for suffering humanity. Quoting from one who knew her intimately: She was a gentle, refined, cultured, Christian woman, appreciative of the little things of life as well as the big things, and the world was made better by her having lived. Another relative writes: Aunt Annie was an inspiration to me. I felt refreshed when I contacted her at any time or any place. To me she was a beautiful woman, and her character and spirituality shone

from her face. She was truly beautiful within. To quote from a devoted friend: She spent herself so much for otherswas always doing for the sick and helpless, the old and lonely. Her reward will be great, as she entered the fold with her arms full of sheavessheaves of kindness, good thoughts, good deeds, a good life. These testimonials speak eloquently of one whose life came to an end June 8, 1944, and who was buried the following day, after brief prayer services, in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Nashville.

S. P. Pittman.

Gospel Advocate, July 6, 1944, page 455.

Stevens, Donald L.

Donald L. Stevens was killed in a hunting accident Jan. 13. He was born in Hatfield, Pa., June 14, 1939, and grew up in that state.

He served in the Air Force from 1958-1962 and married Regina Clary in 1962. Don and Regina had two daughters, Gina and Anna. He had a bachelors degree from Harding University and a masters from Harding Graduate School of Religion. He also did advanced work in guidance and counseling at the University of Arizona.

Don was baptized in 1962 in Fairbanks, Alaska. Immediately after his baptism, he became active in the Lords work. After graduating from Harding, he became an associate minister and youth director at East Wood Church of Christ, Paris, Tenn.

Don did mission work as a preacher for Valley Road Church of Christ, Warrington, Pa., and preached for the Van Dyke congregation in Paris. He also served at the Ellendale Church of Christ and was involvement minister at Sycamore View Church of Christ until his death.

Gospel Advocate, May 21, 1987, page 315.

Stevens, J. W. R.

Brother J. W. R. Stevens was born on January 23, 1855, and died on May 4, 1909. He was a native of Greene County, Ala. At the age of about seventeen he was baptized into Christ by Brother P. B. Lawson, of Marion, Ala. In 1884 he came to Clay County, Miss., and in 1903, he was married to Mrs. L. A. Cook, who was also a native of Greene County, Ala. Brother Stevens was a conscientious, honest, upright, faithful, Christian man. I have known and loved him for ten years, having often been in his home, which was a home where love and righteousness seemed to dwell. Till death he was a devoted husband, a highly respected citizen, and a faithful servant of God. He has gone to receive and enjoy his reward. Let us all so live that we, too, may pass through the pearly gates at last and be with the Lord.

A. H. Smith., Dancy, Miss.

Gospel Advocate, June 3, 1909, page 692.

Stevenson, Ersa A.

Mrs. Ersa A. Stevenson of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., passed from this life on April 30 at the age of sixty-eight and was buried in this city May 4, 1964. She was a resident of this city for the past eighteen years, having moved here from Cincinnati, Ohio. She is survived by her husband, O. E. Stevenson; one daughter, Mrs. T. Grady of Homestead, Fla.; one step daughter, Mrs. Hubert Lanning; one step son, Raymond Stevenson, along with eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by the writer and Leslie Bitting. Mrs. Stevenson or Sister Steve to most of the Andrews Avenue congregation, was a noble and inspiring example, especially in her faithfulness to the church, in her patience under suffering and in her hope for the future. The influence of her quiet and unpretentious life will live on. Her husband will continue to live at 530 Carolina Ave., Fort Lauderdale.

Arlin Chapman.

Gospel Advocate, June 18, 1964, page 399.

Steward, Sarah L.

Departed this life Friday, December 2, 1887, at her residence in north Edgefield, Mrs. Sarah L. Steward in the 70th year of her age after an illness of many months.

A very large collection of relatives and friends who came to pay the last tribute of respect to the memory of the departed loved one showed the high esteem in which she was held. She had been a devoted member of the Christian church for more than forty years. Her character was strong firm and noble. She possessed a generous and appreciative spirit. She loved the church of God and its service. Her life was indeed beautiful and worthy of imitation.

How sad is death. She sleeps in Jesus. But I would not have you to be ignorant brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not even as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. I Thess. Iv:13, 14.

J. L. Stephenson.

Gospel Advocate, January 4, 1888, page 14.

Stewart, Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson Stewart, well and favorably known to many of the Christians in Nashville and in Warren County, Tenn., departed this life on October 9, 1914, under circumstances unusual and sad. He was born on November 2, 1867, and on February 15, 1893, was married to Miss Ora Belle Smith, at McMinnville, Tenn. Brother Stewart obeyed the gospel about fifteen years ago. He was conscientious and painstaking in his work for others and enjoyed the esteem of his employers. He was in delicate health for several months preceding his death, and during this time his devoted wife encouraged him and nursed him with great tenderness. She states that he had great love for his Creator and the truth. Personally, it was my observation that he was a man of quiet, retiring disposition, simple in taste, and home-loving. We extend to the sorrowing widow especially and to all the bereaved an expression of Christian sympathy. Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but Jehovah delivereth him out of them all. The funeral services were conducted at McMinnville.

A. B. Lipscomb.

Gospel Advocate, May 13, 1915, page 478.

Stewart, Annie Rebecca

Mrs. Annie Rebecca Stewart passed away on Thursday, October 31, and was laid to rest on Saturday, November 2, in the North Corlina Church Cemetery, with John D. Cox conducting the funeral services. Mrs. Stewart, aged sixty-seven, was born and reared in Wayne County, and was the daughter of the late Lefate Bradley. She was married on March 10, 1898, to J. D. Stewart; and to this union were born ten children, three of whom preceded her to the grave. She leaves to mourn her death her husband, six daughters, and one son, all of Lauderdale County. She was a devoted member of the church of Christ, having obeyed the gospel in 1909. She also took much interest in the Gospel Advocate, being a subscriber for over thirty years, and has since that time sent many copies to friends throughout this section.

Mrs. D. B. Killen., Florence, Ala., Route 1.

Gospel Advocate, December 12, 1946, page 1182.

Stewart, Delila

On Jan. 19, 1897, at 7 A.M., the angel of death entered the home of Brother Adam Binkley, and bore away the spirit of Sister Delila Stewart to that rest that remaineth to the people of God. She is not dead, but sleepeth. When we speak of death as a sleep, during which God watches over his children, we do not wonder at the Psalmist saying: Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. When we realize how confidently Paul spoke of exchanging the earthly house for a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, we are not surprised at his saying: I would rather be absent from the body, and present with the Lord. Such was the consolation of our dear Sister Stewart. She was born in Virginia March 22, 1844. Her husband was a grandson of King Charles Stewart, of Scotland, and a nephew of Queen Anne. Sister Stewart was first a Methodist; but, having learned the way of the Lord more perfectly, she became a member of the church of Christ, at this place, Sept. 8, 1879. She was a devoted Christian till death, and, when not prevented, was always at the Lords house on the first day of the week, to enjoy communion with her brethren and the Lord Jesus Christ. Sister Stewart leaves, to mourn their loss, Mesdames A. Binkley and F. M. Binkley, and Messrs. W. A. and Arthur Stewart. Dear children, weep not as those who have no hope; but fight the good fight of faith, as did your mother, that you, too, may lay hold on eternal life.

P. H. Hooten., Ashland City, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, January 28, 1897, page 60.

Stewart, Ernest O.

Ernest O. (Ernie) Stewart Jr., 74, died at his home Oct. 27, 1999.

Stewart was a gospel preacher and missionary for more than three decades.

In 1960, Stewart and his family moved to Israel. They lived there for 14 years and were actively involved in mission efforts in Israel for 30 years. He was the founder of Galilee Christian High School in Nazareth, Israel.

He also served as president of Indianapolis Christian School in Indianapolis, Ind., and Columbia Academy in Columbia, Tenn. He was also a missionary in residence for Oklahoma Christian University and helped establish Michigan Christian College.

Stewart is survived by his wife, Marlene; three sons, Ernest O., Stewart III, of Columbia, Tenn.; Kenneth M., of Signal Mountain, Tenn.; and Major Bryan A., Belgium; one daughter, Karen Cherry, of Franklin, Tenn.; two step-daughters, Marjorie Mays of Covington, Tenn.; and Janet Stephens, of Indianapolis, Ind.; one sister, Margaret Meadows of Dalton, Ga.; and nine grandchildren. (Picture included)

Covington, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, February, 2000, page 45.

Stewart, Granville D.

On December 6, 1904, Granville D. Stewart died at the home of his uncle, E. P. Billington, near Ector, Texas, ages about twenty-one years. He was born in Marshall County, Tenn. He was a good Christian boy, having been a member of the church of Christ for five or six years. He had been in Texas a little more than a month at the time of his death, where he made many friends. To know him was to love him. His body was laid to rest in the Carson Cemetery. His newly made Texas friends beautifully decorated his grave with flowers. He leaves a father, a mother, two brothers, one sister (all of whom live in Tennessee), and a host of relatives and friends to mourn their loss. May we all meet him in that great day.

Virgie Billington.

Gospel Advocate, January 26, 1905, page 61.

Stewart, John

John Stewart was born in Collin Co., Texas, June 5, 1861, and was united in marriage to my youngest sister, Mary C. Hurst, on Jan. 12, 1881, in Grayson county, Texas, who was born in Union county, Tennessee, June 13, 1863. She was an orphan from the age of 3 years; was married at the age of 17 years. John joined the Christian church in 1892 and became one of the most pious Christians I ever knew. In February 1893, he died, and we mourn his loss. He was a very industrious man. He read the Bible at night. He died with unbounded faith in the Lord Jesus and in the confidence and respect of his neighbors.

J. W. Hurst., Deaf mute., Era, Cooke Co., Tex. March 10,93.

Gospel Advocate, March 23, 1893, page 188.

Stewart, Mary

Mrs. Mary Stewart was born during the turbulent days of 1860, in Sumner County, Tennessee. She moved with her good husband to Oklahoma in 1903 and settled near Altus. After obeying the gospel here under the able preaching of Brother Huff, she remained a faithful Christian till death. After dwelling at Altus for nine years, she filed on a place in the Panhandle of Oklahoma, now Beaver County. There she lived till January 9, 1933. She leaves three brothers, one sister, two sons, four grandchildren, four stepchildren, and a host of friends, to mourn her death. The writer, assisted by Brother John W. Pigg, of Mangum, Okla., conducted her funeral here in the Altus church, January 10. Her life was consistent with the gospel of the Lord. She was kind and never complained of her lot in life, though for two years her body was constantly in pain. Her motherly qualities will long be remembered by the dear ones she has left behind.

W. Claude Hall.

Gospel Advocate, April 13, 1933, page 358.

Stewart, Mary Ann

Mrs. Mary Ann Stewart, wife of the late W. H. Stewart, was born on April 15, 1858, and died, in Chicago, Ill., on January 3, 1926. She leaves four sonsW. P. and C. L. Stewart, of Chicago, and Phillip and Marshall Stewart, of Lawrenceburg, Tenn.and five grandchildren to mourn her death. She was a Christian with many beautiful Christian graces to adorn and beautify her life, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. She had the spirit of humility. She never tried to exalt herself. She never sought the society of the rich while she neglected the poor. All that loving hearts and tender hands could do was done by her dear children, but to no avail. She was buried at Ethridge, Tenn., beside her husband, who passed away on April 25, 1925. The funeral was conducted by the writer. The bereaved ones have the sympathy of many good friends in their sorrow.

T. C. King.

Gospel Advocate, February 11, 1926, page 140.

Stewart, S. A.

S. A. Stewart, a devout Christian for more than sixty years, departed this life Saturday, September 18, at his home near Portland, Tenn., following an acute attack of appendicitis two weeks previously. Brother Stewart was born in Sumner County, Tenn., eighty-one years ago this November. For the past twenty-three years he has worshiped with the church at Tyrees Chapel, near Mitchellville, Tenn., in which church he was an elder. Sister Steward and five children survive. The sons are: William C. and James P. Stewart; the daughters are: Sisters G. W. Leath, Westmoreland, Tenn.; G. O. Haliburton, Franklin, Ky.; and T. A. Isham, Mitchellville, Tenn. There are nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. The many friends whose lives Brother Stewart touched for good are a memorial to the sincerity of his Christian life. Interment was in the Portland (Tenn.) Cemetery.

Robert M. Alexander.

Gospel Advocate, October 7, 1943, page 919.

Stewart, Sara

Mrs. Sara Stewart of Hinesville, Ga., born August 29, 1908, passed to the life beyond February 29, 1976. She was the wife of the late W. O. Stewart who preceded her in death by about four years. Truly she was the virtuous woman. (Prov. 31.) She obeyed the gospel early in life and reared nine children and taught them the way of the Lord.

She is survived by nine children: two daughters, Mrs. Rebie Tindle and Mrs. Sarah Binkley, and seven sons, Wilton R., Willis, Wayne, Wallace, Wavell, Wendell, and Wyman Stewart. Seven brothers: Hugh, Robert, Jim, Frank, Alfred, Lucien and Jeff Palmer. Four sisters: Mrs. Ruth Jefferson, Mrs. Louise Copeland, Mrs. Martha Poland, ad Mrs. Frances Weyandt; and twenty-three grandchildren and one great-grandson.

The world is a better place because Sister Stewart lived in it. Her loyalty and faithfulness to the Lord encouraged many and she was interested in every good work. Her death was sudden, while she was visiting with her sisters in Valdosta and Quitman, Ga. Sister Stewart was born in Laurens County, Ga., moved to Ludowici, Ga., and lived there until her death. Graveside services were conducted at Rye Patch Cemetery, March 3, 1976, by the writer of Jackson, Ga., and Ronnie Ulrey of Hinesville, Ga. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. (Rev. 14:13.)

Haris McCaleb.

Gospel Advocate, April 8, 1976, page 238.

Stewart, Sarah Jane

Mrs. Sarah Jane Stewart, wife of W. C. Stewart and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Carman (deceased), was born on May 19, 1860, and died on July 13, 1929. She was married to W. C. Stewart on January 8, 1891. To this union five children were born, two of whom preceded Sister Stewart in death. She leaves a husband, one brother, two sisters, three children, two stepchildren, eleven grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends to mourn her departure. Sister Stewart obeyed the gospel in early life, and the New Liberty Church, near the old Carman home, was her regular place of worship from the time she became a Christian to the close of life. New Liberty is sacred as a place of worship in the hearts of all of Brother and Sister W. B. Carmans family who are living. For years the Carman family met at this place for worship and service together when they were led by the father and cheered by the presence of a good mother. The only living brother, Dr. J. T. Carman, lives at Franklin, Ky., and is a very busy and useful man. One of the two living sisters of Sister Stewart lives at Franklin, Ky., and the other at Nashville, Tenn. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. (Ps. 116:15.) Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that

they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them. (Rev. 14:13.) If to be an obedient child, a good girl, a noble young woman, an obliging neighbor, a good and faithful wife, a true and loving mother, a consecrated and devoted Christianif all these good deeds and traits go for anything, Sister Stewart is gone to the home where changes never come. Funeral services were conducted by the writer at the home of Brother and Sister Stewart, in the presence of a large assembly of sorrowing relatives and friends.

J. M. Dennis.

Gospel Advocate, August 8, 1929, page 761.

Stewart, W. H.

Brother W. H. Stewart, of Lawrenceburg, Tenn., died at his late home, April 24, 1925, at the age of seventy-seven years and eight months. He leaves, to mourn his death, his wife; four sonsW. P. and C. L. Stewart, of Chicago, Ill.; Philip and Marshall, of Lawrenceburg, Tenn.; and five grandchildren. He was a member of the church of Christ from early life. Brother Stewart moved with his family from Indiana to Lawrence County near forty years ago. It is said by his neighbors that a better neighbor, friend, and citizen would be hard to find. Brother Stewart possessed some of the most prominent traits of a true Christian. First, that of humility. He was humble in mind. He occupied a very humble place in the walks of life. He had the spirit of sympathy; he wept with them that wept. He was long-suffering; and while he suffered long and much, still he was kind. Love suffereth long, and is kind. He was tenderly nursed with tender hands and loving hearts.

Thomas C. King.

Gospel Advocate, August 27, 1925, page 839.

Stiles, Ellen Argo

Mrs. Ellen Argo Stiles, of McMinnville, Tenn., was born on August 19, 1849, and died on June 7, 1929. Sister Stiles obeyed the gospel when just a girl. She was married in 1868 to Brother Sam Stiles, with whom she lived for sixty years, and together they reared ten children, five of which are now livingfour daughters and one son. She is also survived by one brother and a number of grandchildren. Brother Stiles, who preceded her to the grave about one year, was one of the elders of the church at West Riverside, near McMinnville. Both Brother and Sister Stiles spent long, useful lives in the service of the Master and were faithful until death. The funeral was conducted by Elder J. E. Bacigalupo, of Nashville, Tenn., assisted by Rev. Bruce Lyle, of McMinnville, after which the body was laid to rest in West Riverside Cemetery.

Gospel Advocate, June 27, 1929, page 623.

Stiles, Eula A. Kline

Eula A. Kline Stiles was born in Humphreys County, Tenn., on January 18, 1881, and obeyed the gospel at the age of twelve years, and excepting two years, during which she was a member of the Baptist Church, soon after her marriage, she held membership in the church of Christ until the day of her death, June 18, 1911. She was an earnest, faithful member, striving at all times to do her duty as a Christian. Christianity was no mere matter of a profession with her, but a matter of an earnest and faithful life, as required in the word of the Lord. As the day of death drew on she told her family and friends that she was satisfied, that she had nothing to fear in passing to the beyond. Thus, after an earnest life, she leaves to husband, father, and mother, the family, and to all, the hope of eternal life.

E. G. S.

Gospel Advocate, July 13, 1911, page 762.

Still, Pauline Coats

Mrs. W. W. Still (nee Pauline Coats), of Bridgeport, Ala., died at Pine Breeze Sanitarium, Chattanooga, Tenn., of tuberculosis, on Monday night, May 24, 1926. I have known Pauline since she was a very small child and have been intimately associated with her. She was unusually kind-hearted, pure, sweet, and sympathetic. She obeyed the gospel and studied her Bible prayerfully and tried so hard to do her duty. She married W. W. Still, of Athens, Ala., in March, 1925, and she seemed to get better physically. Brother Still wanted to take her to Florida, but she wanted to visit her folks at Hooker, Ga. Her kinspeople and friends at Hooker did all they could to make her happy and healthy, but she kept going down. So in January her father carried her to Pine Breeze Sanitarium, where everything possible was done for her, but without avail. Funeral services were conducted by Brother Charles Holder, after which she was gently lowered into a grave lined with a carpet of grass to await the resurrection morning. I commend the bereaved ones to God, who alone is able to comfort and heal their broken hearts.

(Miss) Mattie Holder.

Gospel Advocate, August 26, 1926, page 808.

Stillings, Margaret Eunice Reneau

Departed this life, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Pattie Pirtle, Mount Ranier, Md., on June 14, 1917, at 12:45 P.M., Margaret Eunice Reneau Stillings. She was born on July 12, 1839, and was seventy-seven years, eleven months, and two days of age. She was the eldest daughter of the late Isaac T. Reneau and wife, of Kentucky, and widow of the late Elbert F. Stillings, of Tennessee. She had been a member of the church for more than sixty years, having united under the preaching and exhortation of the late Newton Mulkey, one of our pioneer preachers of Glasgow, Ky. Her father also was an expounder of the truth for more than forty years. She leaves, to mourn her loss; a host of relatives and friends, seven brothers and sisters, four children, and sixteen grandchildren. The children are: Mrs. Lula Bennett, L. G. Stillings, Mrs. Linda Brown, and Mrs. Pattie Pirtle. These were all with her in her last hours, with the exception of Mrs. Bennett, who was unable to travel from her home in Tennessee. Although mother was confined to her bed for nearly four months, she bore her suffering with Christian fortitude, ever looking to Him who doeth all things well. She knew whom (Christ) she had believed. She has fought a good fight, she has kept the faith, and now has gone to receive her reward. We mourn, but not as those without hope.

(Mrs.) Pattie Pirtle.

Gospel Advocate, July 5, 1917, page 654.

Stinnett, Seth L.

Seth L. Stinnett was born in Todd County, Ky., near Elkton, April 22, 1844; died on October 13, 1932, in the home of L. B. Stinnett, his son, where he spent his last few years. Surviving him is one daughter, Miss Nora Stinnett, of Lewisburg, Ky., and the above-mentioned son, of Springfield, Tenn.; one sister, Mrs. K. T. Sutton, also of Lewisburg. By nature deceased was religious. For sixty-four years he was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, during which time he served it faithfully. Five or six years ago he heard J. Pettey Ezell, and was convinced that it would be best for him to change his religious affiliation, and so informed the church at Springfield and began immediately to work and worship with it. After making this change he began to study the Bible anew, and it was not long until it began to dawn upon him that the baptism with which he had so long been satisfied was not to be found in the New Testament. About four years ago I baptized him into Christ. From that time on it seemed that no cloud ever appeared to obscure the sun, no shadow to cross his path, no fear to molest his peace of mind. He was a liberal contributor, an untiring worker, and a faithful Christian. His delight was in the Lord, his pleasure in service, and his joy in the worship. Certainly his life was hid with Christ in God during his sojourn with us. We who knew him best have no fear of his future happiness. Services were conducted by the writer at Springfield, after which his body was laid to rest in the beautiful cemetery at Lewisburg, Ky., in which community he spent much of his life.

Thomas H. Burton.

Gospel Advocate, April 27, 1933, page 406.

Stinson, Mary Frances

Sister Mary Frances (Blain) Stinson, wife of Brother W. B. Stinson, died, in Sherman, Texas, on May 10, 1904, in the same house where, thirty-six years ago, she was married to Brother Stinson. Our sister suffered much of bodily ill. She simply wasted away from nervous prostration and failure to assimilate food. Some years ago she had recovered from a similar attack, and it was hoped that she would be again restored, but it pleased the Lord to take her to himself. Sister Stinson was born, in Falls County, Texas, on April 29, 1848. She was the daughter of Maj. S. A. Blain, of Tennessee. Her maternal grandfather, ___Marlin, established the town of Marlin (and gave it his name), in Falls County. For more than thirty years she was a member of the church of Christ, and the greater part of the time worshiped with the church on Houston street, Sherman. The funeral services were conducted by me in the church house where she had so often and so regularly worshiped and where Brother Stinson had so often preached the word during the thirty years of her Christian life. A large audience assembled; for all who knew her loved her, and all sympathized with Brother Stinson. A slip of paper was placed in my hand, on which was written: Prov. 31; John 11:25, 26. I thought of it as a sacred request and kept it the best I could. It seemed as though Jesus had said to her personally: I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Is that not true of every Christian? Whosoever implies that. Eternal life is the gift of God, bestowed on those who come to him through Christ: and we come to him through faith, repentance, and baptism, and remain his by being faithful to him. Sister Stinson was an intelligent Christian. She knew her Bible. She did not simply join her husband; she took up the question of her relation to her Savior and her duty and solved the question for herself, and was baptized by Brother B. F.

Hall. She was a Christian from conviction; and this was manifest in her steady, faithful life and in her untiring devotion to the cause she loved. For many years it has been the custom for her to lead in the songs. Brother Stinson doing the preaching. She was his most charitable critic and was ever a most patient listener. She did much to advance the cause of Christ and to aid her husband in his labors in the gospel, and the heart of her husband safely trusted in her. We laid the worn-out body away, under the flowers that beautifully adorned its resting place, in the blessed hope of a glorious resurrection.

O. A. Carr.

Gospel Advocate, June 9, 1904, page 362.

Stirling, Harriet A.

At the request of brethren here, I beg to solicit a corner in the Gospel Advocate for a few lines sacred to the memory of Sister Stirling (nee Harriet A. Trout), beloved wife of Brother Duncan Stirling, who is an esteemed elder of the Bathurst Street church of Christ, Toronto. Surrounded by all the members of her family, Sister Stirling entered into rest on Friday, April 27, after an illness of over four years, borne with characteristic Christian patience and fortitude. She was born in Norval, Ontario, in 1842, and was baptized when only twelve years of age, at Meaford, by her father, Elder William Trout. As an active church worker, she had few equals. Not even during serious bodily weakness did she lose interest in anything connected with the church in which she was indeed a living stone. Many there are who sorrowfully realize that one who was a true mother in Israel to them is now gone from us. It is not too much to say of her that she was great in life and influence, and influence which will remain in the hearts of her brethren and sisters until death do us unite. Besides her husband, three sons, and two daughters, Sister Stirling leaves, to mourn her loss, three brothersEdward Trout, of Toronto; William Trout, of Milwaukee, Wis.; and Peter Trout, of Alaskaand one sisterMrs. Whitelaw, of Winnipeg.

W. J. D.

Gospel Advocate, May 24, 1906, page 331.

Stirling, James

Brother C. H. Jay, of Meaford, Ontario, Canada, received a telegram announcing the death of Brother James Stirling, of Carman, Manitoba, on November 2, 1905. He was in the seventieth year of his age. He was formerly of Gray County, Ontario, where he was held in high esteem. He was one of the promoters of the Lords cause in Euphrana Township. It is said of him there: He was always present at their meetings, with tongue, heart, and hand ready for every good work. He was a prominent member and leading elder of the church at Carman. It is said of him there: He will be missed by his neighbors and much more by the church. None of us are perfect, but he had few faults. One steady strain of determination to do good and to honor God and serve Christ was characteristic of this noble man. He was for sixteen years in the church at Carman as its main stay. Without him it is doubtful if there would have been a church at Carman. The high esteem in which he was held was duly attested by the large concourse of sorrowing friends who attended his funeral. He was faithful in the Lords work, present at his table, and gave of his means to carry on and perpetuate the cause. A great man in Israel has fallen, but our loss is his gain. He was firm, stable, with convictions and courage to defend and maintain them. Let us emulate his virtues, overlook his faults, and try to meet him where a crown of righteousness awaits the faithful.

W. F. Neal., Meaford, Ontario, Canada.

Gospel Advocate, November 30, 1905, page 768.

Stirman, Mrs. F. B.

Some days ago, in the parlors of the Shelley Undertaking Company, in San Antonio, I preached the funeral of Sister F. B. Stirman. She was the wife of W. A. J. Stirman, and one of the pioneers of the faith of Texas. Born in Tennessee on April 22, 1844, she was brought as a child to Texas in 1848, by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Pendigrass. They located in Smith County, where she grew to young womanhood, and in 1869 was married to W. A. J. Stirman. With her husband she lived and reared a family near the town of Comanche, in Comanche County, moving from thence to Sanderson in 1899, where, with the help of one more woman, she became definitely responsible for the establishment of the church. In 1917 she came to San Antonio to live with her daughter, Mrs. W. B. Locke, with whom she lived till her death. What a great good must have been accomplished by one who served so faithfully and for so long! She had reached the age of ninety years.

A. H. Clark.

Gospel Advocate, January 3, 1935, page 23.

Stivers, Thomas D.

Thomas D. Stivers, son of Benjamin F. and Sarah E. Stivers, was born, at Frankfort, Ky., on February 20, 1859, and died on January 24, 1921. He became obedient to the gospel early in life and remained faithful until death. He leaves one son, Thomas E. Stivers, of Louisville, Ky., who, with his wife, is a member of the F Street church of Christ. Brother Stivers was preceded to the grave by his mother and by his wife three and one-half years. He was buried in St. Stephens Cemetery. He was brought to the City Hospital in Louisville for treatment on January 23 and died on the following Monday. Brother Stivers was well informed in the Scriptures and stood ready to defend the Masters cause. He was very active in building and talking up good interest in public schools. I pray that we may meet him in the sweet by and by. May God comfort the bereaved.

Jarratt L. Smith.

Gospel Advocate, March 3, 1921, page 217.

St. John, Alcie Jane Woods

Mrs. A. J. St. John (nee Alcie Jane Woods) departed this life July 10, 1941. She was seventy-one years of age and the daughter of the late N. L. and Margaret Phillips Woods, of near Woodbury. She was united in marriage to A. J. St. John, also of near Woodbury, who preceded her in death fifteen years ago. They both obeyed the gospel early in life and remained faithful to the end, Brother St. John establishing the Pleasant Knoll congregation and the Cumberland Academy congregation, in Coffee County. He was not a preacher, but was a loyal Bible scholar, serving as an elder in the congregations which he established, besides the untold service he rendered in other ways. Sister St. John was a modest, unassuming woman, a faithful Christian and wife, and a loyal and devoted mother. To this union were born six sons and six daughters. Her body was carried to Pleasant Knoll, where the services were conducted by W. P. Willis and Jim Stubblefield, interment following in the Morrison Cemetery. The many beautiful floral offerings and the large crowd that gathered to pay their last respects attested to the love and respect in which Sister St. John was held. The Gospel Advocate has gone into the St. John home for many years.

Maymie St. John., McMinnville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, September 25, 1941, page 935.

St. John, Charles Clark

Charles Clark St. John, 55, was laid to rest in Morrison, Tenn., June 19. Brother St. John had lived in East Tennessee and worked at Oak Ridge for the past twenty years. While living there, he has helped establish the cause of Christ more firmly by preaching for churches that could not afford a full-time preacher. He preached for one congregation six of these years. The New Testament plea is better known in East Tennessee as a result of his efforts.

Services were conducted at New York Avenue church building June 18, and at Morrison June 19 by the writer.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lila St. John, one son, Thomas J. St. John, one daughter Mrs. Sharlie Sue St. John, four sisters, two brothers and one grandson. We trust that our loss is heavens gain.

J. Lynwood Mathis.

Gospel Advocate, September 28, 1967, page 623.

St. John, Eliza Ann

Born on the fourth of July 1893, Eliza Ann (Ma) St. John lived 88 of Americas first 205 years. Of hardy stock, she was blessed with good health and an abundance of energy.

Eliza Ann Prater was baptized into Christ by a gospel preacher named Wright. Eliza Ann married Delter St. John and became the mother of three sons: Herbert lived only six months; Billy, who served as Superintendent of Coffee County Schools and Charles D., who is presently an elder of the Pleasant Knoll Church of Christ near Morrison, Tenn.

Delter St. John served as an elder of the Pleasant Knoll church of Christ for many years and departed this life Jan. 13, 1967.

Serving Pleasant Knoll for over 20 years this preacher, my wife and our three children are but a few among many of Gods servants who sat at Mas table to enjoy the labor of her sweet hands and the warm hospitality of their home.

Ma and Pa St. John are missed each day, but their godly influence will live on in the hearts and lives of a multitude of those whose life they touched. The world is a better place because of their Christian example. One may but wonder what this world would be like without the influence of the salt of the earth.

Lloyd E. Gale, Jr.

Gospel Advocate, July 15, 1982, page 444.

St. John, Mrs. Joab

Sister St. John, widow of Joab St. John, died recently at the age of seventy-one. After funeral services at Pleasant Knoll meetinghouse, her body was laid to rest at Morrison, Tenn. She was born near Woodbury, Tenn. but lived near Pleasant Knoll a good portion of her life. Brother St. John, faithful servant of God, passed some twenty-three years ago. Together they did much toward the establishment of the church at Pleasant Knoll. She was the mother of ten children, all of whom are members of the church. She was a faithful Christian mother, possessing many traits of character which made her beloved by all who knew her. She made no outward display, but was noted for a meek and quiet spirit, which in the sight of God is of great price. Her influence will live in the lives of her children. May they emulate her virtues and comfort in her hope of eternal life.

J. R. Stubblefield., Route 4, Morrison, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, November 27, 1941, page 1151.

Stockard, Herschel L.

The home of Brother Edgar Stockard and Sister Annie Stockard was greatly saddened by the death of their oldest son, Herschel L. Stockard. He was born on March 28, 1893; obeyed the gospel on October 10, 1908; and departed this life on October 30, 1911, a victim of typhoid fever. All that loving hearts and willing hands could do was of no avail. This sad bereavement, also the love he possessed for the gospel truth, should be an incentive to his loved ones and many others to press on and be more faithful in their Christian duty. Brother Behel preached a splendid and appropriate discourse at the home of the parents, after which a large procession proceeded to the Pleasant Grove Cemetery, where his body was placed beneath the sod to await the great resurrection. To the sorrowing family we would say: Sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

(Mrs.) Mary Crews., Lawrenceburg, Tenn.

gospel Advocate, December 21, 1911, page 1494.

Stocking, Rita Foster

Rita Foster Stocking, Abilene Christian Universitys Outstanding Alumnus of the Year for 1972, died Dec. 2, 1997. She was 90.

Stocking was the daughter of Otto and Mattie Foster for whom ACUs Foster Science Building is named.

A native of Cleburne, Texas, Stocking graduated from Abilene in 1927. She taught at Clarendon Junior College until she married Frank A. Stocking in 1929. In 1934, he accepted a position with the U.S. government, and the pair moved to Washington, D.C.

After her husbands death in 1940, Stocking began a career with the federal government that lasted 27 years, 16 of which were spent as administrative assistant to seven different Secretaries of Health, Education and Welfare. She also served nearly four years in the White House as secretary to John R. Steelman, assistant to the president.

Stocking received an honorary doctor of laws degree from the university in 1982 and the Woman of the Year Award from 20th Century Christian magazine in 1980.

A charter member of the Arlington, Va., Church of Christ, Stocking served as a Bible class teacher for several decades.

She is survived by a son, Frank A. Stocking Jr., and three grandchildren.

Arlington, Va.

Gospel Advocate, January, 1998, page 45.

Stokes, J. Y.

It falls to my sad lot to note the death of our beloved brother, J. Y. Stokes. He was born Nov. 23, 1854; married April 17, 1879; died Sept. 15, 1896. Brother Stokes obeyed the gospel, under the teaching of Brother Scott, about the year 1870. Brother Land came to see him during his sickness. He asked him to talk at his grave. Brother Logan also came to see him a day or two before he died. His countenance lighted up immediately; he wanted him to preach there in his room. He seemed perfectly sane as he called the family to his bedside, and said that he was bound to die, but was ready and willing, only regretting to leave his dear wife with so many little ones. He gently laid his arms around Clarence, his oldest boy, pressed a sweet farewell kiss upon his cheek, telling him to be a good boy, obey mamma, and meet him in heaven. What an admonition! Dear children, will you not heed his tender words? He would say: I am still lingering here. If it were his will, I had rather go and be at rest. He was deeply concerned for the welfare of his wife and children. He was very industrious, and was never satisfied except at some sort of work. He was very tenderhearted and affectionate, and made many warm friends. In his illness, while he was anxious to live for the benefit of his family, he was full of hope for the future, and rejoiced in anticipation of the beautiful home beyond the dark river. He leaves a grief-stricken wife, six small children, and a host of relatives and friends to mourn their loss; but may our loss be his eternal gain. In conclusion, dear sister, let me say that the court of heaven hears no appeal, grants no stay; the angel of mercy pleads in vain, and death finds the unfinished work laid aside, the busy hands are folded, the tired brain rests, and words from us fail to stir the pulseless heart. By his devoted life he left to you the strongest assurance of hope for his safety in the arms of eternal love. While I know your home is very lonely, and it is so sad to part from loved ones, but, with all the courage you can summon, say: Thy will be done, O Lord; not mine. If you are faithful in serving the Lord in this life, you will meet him in the home where tears and sad partings will be known no more, where they that oft have sown in tears shall reap again in joy.

Jennie Aden., Holladay, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, July 1, 1897, page 407.

Stoltz, Mary E.

On April 2, 1903, the angel of death entered the home of Brother G. W. Stoltz, near Lobelville, Perry County, Tenn. and claimed for its victim his wife, Mary E. Stoltz. She was born on February 10, 1852. She obeyed the gospel in 1888, and ever afterwards lived a devoted, Christian life. She grew up from childhood under Methodist influences; however, from the time that she made her choice in the Christian life she was faithful in all her duties. She had the courage of her convictions and was not afraid to express them whenever occasion demanded. She was kind and attentive to her husband and children and her greatest desire was to bring up her children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. While she had been greatly afflicted for several years, she never complained. She leaves a husband, two daughters, several sons, and many relatives and friends to mourn their loss; but they should look up through their tears and thank our Heavenly Father that he has taken her to that blessed home above, where all is joy and peace and where sorrow and sighing shall be no more. Then, dear friends, sorrow not as those who have no hope. I conducted funeral services over the remains of our sister. May we all live and bear the pains and sorrows of earth in such a manner as to gain for us a home with the redeemed.

J. H. Hill., Toms Creek, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, June 11, 1903, page 378.

Stone, A. C.

A. C. Stone of Grapevine, Texas, died Oct. 28 at his home after an extended battle with cancer.

Stone was a businessman, inventor, and publisher of personal work tools. He compiled and published the Bible Readers Digest, a study tool that has been distributed throughout the world, along with The Story of Jesus tract and the booklet Bible Questions. He and his late wife conducted personal work seminars at many local churches and Christian universities.

The Stones served on boards of childrens homes and Christian schools for many years. They used their blessings to help and to save many.

Stone is survived by a daughter, Mary Stone Myers; two grandsons; three sisters, Floy Nation, Gladys Martin and Bonnie Nation; and five great-grandchildren.

Gospel Advocate, December, 1988, page 40.

Stone, E. N.

Central church of Christ in Chickasha, Okla., sustained a great loss recently when E. N. Stone, an elder here for approximately twenty-five years, passed away early August 5.

Brother Stone had been particularly active in benevolent work, aiding transients, etc. He had worked closely with the colored congregation here as well as in building and expanding the physical facilities of Central church.

He was of a kind, humble and courteous disposition yet possessing courage and strength of character.

Brother Stone was a respected and capable businessman and God blessed him with a busy, active life almost to the end. He was nearing his eighty-first birthday.

Surviving him are his wife and one son, Earl Stone, of Weston, Conn., and two grandsons. One son and one daughter had preceded him in death.

Dr. Samuel Evans preached the funeral sermon assisted by this writer.

B. M. Litton.

Gospel Advocate, September 2, 1965, page 575.

Stone, Elvira

Mrs. Elvira Stone, widow of the late J. Q. Stone, died at Tullahoma, Tenn., on September 3, 1909, in the seventy-second year of her age, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She had been in failing health for some time and realized the end was near, but death had no terrors for her. Her blameless and beautiful life had been spent in the service of the Master, and the end was peace. As her soul neared the heavenly shores, her whole being seemed dissolved in love. In the midst of her greatest suffering she would speak in tones of endearment and tenderness to those about her. I want to go home to my Heavenly Father, was her last wish. Her remains were brought to her old home at Dans, Tenn., and tenderly laid to rest by the side of her husband and four of her children in the family cemetery, attended by a large number of relatives and friends. She was the mother of ten children, six of whom survive herDr. W. P. Stone, of Tracy City, Tenn.; Dr. J. E. Stone, of Tullahoma, Tenn.; Dr. I. R. Stone and Mrs. Alice Cannon, of Chattanooga, Tenn.; Mr. Polk Stone, of Birmingham, Ala.; and Mrs. Jessie Brothers, of Fosterville, Tenn.all prominent in social and business circles where they live. The Gospel Advocate was her constant companion all her life, and she lived to see all of her children gathered into the church she loved. How sweet and fragrant the memories she left behind her, and what a blessed heritage to her descendants? The record of her deeds of love and charity to all about her are written on high. Joyfully will she cast her crown at the Saviors feet in that day when he says, Well done. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.

Gospel Advocate, September 30, 1909, page 1240.

Stone, F. M.

Brother F. M. Stone, of New Hope, Ala., is dead. He was seventy-one years old, and has been living at this place about fifty years. He passed away sitting upright in his chair. He had dropsy of the heart and could not lie down. He never murmured nor complained during his sickness, but bore it very patiently. He was taken sick while at Anniston, Ala., where he had gone to visit his daughter. He remained there only a short time; he said he wanted to come home and be with his old friends during his last days on earth. Uncle Frank obeyed the gospel about sixteen years ago. He told his family during his sickness that he was willing and ready to die. He left a wife and five children to mourn the loss of a husband and father, but they need not mourn as those who have no hope. They can think of him now as free from all the trials and sufferings of earth; and if they will faithfully serve the Lord while here on earth, then they will be ready for death when it comes and to live with all the faithful children of God where death and sad farewells will come no more. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

U. D. Ellett., New Hope, Ala.

Gospel Advocate, March 29, 1906, page 203.

Stone, G. M.

Brother G. M. Stone died on July 3, 1905, aged seventy-six years. He was loved and respected by all who knew him. In 1875, he obeyed the gospel, being baptized by Brother E. G. Sewell. He lived about ten miles north of Franklin, Ky., and was a devoted member of the congregation worshiping at Bethel. He was so faithful in his attendance at the Lords house, carrying his Bible with him each time, that his wife said she desired to have the dear old volume placed in the casket with his lifeless body. The writer made a few remarks at the home, earnestly entreating all present to follow the noble example of Brother Stone. May the Lord bless and keep those who are left to mourn the loss of one they loved with the tenderest affection.

M. L. Moore., Franklin, Ky.

Gospel Advocate, September 7, 1905, page 572.

Stone, Ida Viola

Sister Ida Viola Stone was born on February 21, 1878; married on January 7, 1904, to Brother Robert L. Stone, who was blessed by her lovable and ever cheerful companionship only a few short years, for it was on December 31, 1909, that he was so suddenly called upon to lay her away in the tomb. Two little children had come to bless their peaceful and happy home. The older, Josephine, and her little brother, Mack William, were left on that sad and gloomy day to wonder in their childish minds about mamma. How sad and grieved and shocked were we, when, instead of the pleasure of going to see her, as we had anticipated, with happy greetings to the mother, and tender, loving expressions for the little treasure, we were to submissively bury our dear one from our sight with the little one yet unborn. Her untimely death was greatly mourned by her husband, relatives, and many friends; for not only was her sudden and peculiarly sad death a great shock to all her loved ones, but through her lovable, happy, cheerful disposition she had very much endeared herself to all who knew her. She was always ready, willing, and anxious to relieve suffering wherever found. She was a lover of hospitality, and the visitor would not soon forget a day spent with her and her little family. At the time of her death she was spending some months in the home of her father, Brother Hiram B. Bonner, they having sold their little home just previously, with the intention of rebuilding another at an early day. Sister Ida was a member of the church of Christ, faithful and responsive to each and every call for help in the service of our Lord. She had obeyed the gospel when quite young, and lived a true, consecrated life to the last, when her precious soul slipped away from our unseeing eyes back to its eternal home, where there are no tears nor sadness, but happiness and joyful praises forever and ever in the beautiful light of Gods great glory and eternal love.

Gospel Advocate, July 6, 1911, page 736.

Stone, Mrs. I. C.

One of our beloved citizens, Mrs. I. C. Stone, departed this life on July 10, 1916. She was born on March 22, 1841, in Northwood, Germany, and came to America when a young girl. In April, 1864, she was married to Jonathan Huggins, in Murfreesboro, Tenn. To this union three children were born. Her second marriage was to I. C. Stone, in Manchester. To this union were born five children, all of whom are living except oneSister Sallie Stone, who went to her reward nearly two years ago. Sister Stone united with the church of Christ about the year 1863 and lived a consistent Christian until death. It was my good pleasure to know her in her home. She was devoted to God and a daily student of the Bible. A devoted mother has gone to her reward, and we rejoice that she is at rest; and if we obey and follow Christ, we shall soon meet her again where perfect health and joy shall be ours for evermore.

W. S. Long.

Gospel Advocate, August 17, 1916, page 834.

Stone, Mary Green

On May 7, 1922, the angel of death claimed the spirit of Mary Green Stone, daughter of Brother and Sister A. D. Stone. Brother Stone, the father, departed this life on December 19, 1907, leaving Sister Stone with two sons and three daughters. She has been a loving, dutiful, Christian mother, and has taught her children to love and fear God. Mary Green Stone was born on November 14, 1901. She was born into the kingdom of Christ when she was about fourteen years old, and she lived a Christian life until death. She was a true member of the church of Christ at Cave Springs. Her position with the business world was filled well, and she ever manifested the Spirit of Christ. Kindness, cheerfulness, and faithfulness were prominent traits in her life. To the mother, sisters, and brothers, and all who loved her, let me say: If we would meet Sister Mary Green in heaven, let us place our hand confidently in the hand of Jesus, take the New Testament as our guide, and do whatsoever Christ commands us, and we shall meet her in that eternal home where there shall be perfect peace and perfect joy. She was buried at the Tynsley graveyard by the side of her father. She leaves a mother, two sisters, two brothers, and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her death. In the presence of a large audience, the writer spoke words of comfort at the cemetery.

J. W. Arms.

Gospel Advocate, June 1, 1922, page 523.

Stone, Sydney Stanton

Sydney Stanton Stone was born December 27, 1857, and departed this life at the home of his mother, sister Martha Stone, near Butlers Landing Clay County, Tenn., September 27, 1890, aged thirty-two years and nine months. Bro. Stone spent his young life under peculiarly distressing circumstances, having the care of his mother, brother and sisters cast upon him when a ten-year-old boy, his father, John N. D. Stone having been an inmate of the Asylum for the Insane since 1868. He filled the responsibility of his station, nobly and well. Soon after arriving at the age of manhood, he determined to become a Christian, and without waiting for the meeting to come round he went to a preacher of the gospel, appointed the time and place and obeyed the Savior in his own appointed way, after which time, he ever labored to build up the church and to live the Christian life. He would often hire out as a day laborer to get money to support the preaching of the gospel. Bro. Stone was devotedly attached to the loved ones at home, and was ever kind and charitable to those around him. He rejoiced in his last sickness in the fact that he had lived to see his younger brother and all his sisters, members of the church of Christ and died in the triumph of a living faithin the hope of a blessed immortality. We can but commend his Christian mother and other loved ones for consolation, to the boundless love of the Savior whom it was his delight to serve.

G. H. M., Cookville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, May 13, 1891, page 297.

Stone, Talmadge Howell

Talmadge Howell Stone of Pell City, Ala., died Feb. 26 at the age of 73. He is survived by his faithful wife, Pauline, two daughters, his mother, one sister and six grandchildren.

Brother Stone was a sound and dedicated gospel preacher. He earned his living by working in a cotton mill and preached on Sundays by appointment at small struggling congregations. He spent the last 25 years with the small church at Margaret, Ala., where he was loved and respected. Brother Stones father also was a gospel preacher having preached each month for the Thorn Hill church in Winston County for more than 60 years.

Men like Brother Stone have made a substantial contribution to the Cause of Christ in our day. His work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope will be remembered by those who knew him and were affected for good by his life.

The service was conducted in Birmingham by Kenneth L. Bray with congregational singing being directed by Garry Jones of the Center Point church. Burial was in Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

Kenneth L. Bray.

Gospel Advocate, May 1, 1986, page 283.

Stone, Una B.

Sister Una B. Stone, wife of Brother Sam D. Stone, of Milburn, Ky., was born on November 6, 1870. She was born into Gods family in September, 1886. She was married to Brother Stone on October 1, 1894. Of this union two children were bornNora, now eight years old, and little George, only seven months old. Sister Stone was a model Christian in many respects. She was true to her honest convictions, and was perfectly satisfied with the Lords word, his way, and his will. There was absolutely no spirit of pride in her nature. She was Sister Stone every day and everywhere. She was an ideal wife and mother, loving her husband and children most tenderly. She was a keeper at home in the strictest sense of the word. Hers was, indeed, a happy home. She possessed the faculty of making every one feel easy and comfortable in her home. For all such homes we humbly thank Him from whom all blessings flow. But this homemy home when in Milburnis now broken up. Sister Stone died on July 16, 1906, leaving a husband, two children, and many relatives and friends to mourn their loss. On July 17, in the presence of a large assembly of sorrowing relatives and sympathizing friends, the funeral services were conducted by Brethren E. C. L. Denton, T. F. Owens, and the writer, after which the lifeless body was laid to rest in Milburn Cemetery to await the resurrection morn.

G. Dallas Smith.

Gospel Advocate, August 9, 1906, page 510.