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

R

Roberson, Fred M.

Fred M. Roberson was born September 10, 1889, near Rome, Ga.; he died November 21, 1944, at Poteau, Okla., at the age of fifty-five. Brother Roberson was the second child of a family of eleven children. He moved with his father and mother to Texas in 1895, and, after ten years in Texas, came to Greenwood, Ark., in 1905. He taught in the public school at Greenwood for two years. It was at Valley View, near Greenwood, that he obeyed the gospel. He later moved to Cowlington, Okla., where he married Miss Nellie Dodson, December 8, 1919. To this union three children were bornone son (Mervin), who is in the United States service n San Antonio, and a daughter (Montez), who teaches school near Hugo, Okla. Brother Roberson was truly a great man in every respect. It was through his influence and the labor of Dr. Billingsley, of Fort Smith, Ark., that the church was established at Cowlington, Okla. He was instrumental in the establishing of the congregation here in Poteau. We will miss his able counsel and his sweet prayers. Brother Roberson is survived by his wife, two children, his father and mother, three brothers, six sisters, and a great host of friends and brethren.

M. L. Guthery and Jack Huff., Poteau, Okla.

Gospel Advocate, December 14, 1944, page 823.

Roberson, John Henry

In the death of Brother John Henry Roberson the church and community at Ostella, Tenn., sustained a very great loss; yet into our sadness there beams a gleam of happy anticipation that we shall again blend our voices with his in praise to Him who shall wipe all tears away. Brother Roberson was born on August 20, 1852, and died on June 14, 1919. He was married to Hettie Martha Williams on July 5, 1882, to which union were born two sons. He obeyed the gospel in early life and has ever been faithful, steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. He was one who read the Bible, believed the Bible, and committed his soul to Gods keeping in well-doing. The community has indeed lost a great and good citizen; the church, a stanch supporter; his invalid wife, a devoted husband; and his sons, a kind and affectionate father. Brother Berry London and Dr. Hardison spoke words of comfort and encouragement to the bereaved ones. While they could not say he was perfect, they, like all who knew and loved him, classed him with faithful Abraham. After the services, his remains were laid to rest in Beechwood Cemetery, at Cornersville. Although there is a vacancy in the home, the church, and the community which never can be filled, we would not forget his example of a true Christian life and endeavor to make our lives like his; we would sorrow not as those who have no hope, for he leaves a legacy of a life beautifully lived in service to God. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

Elizabeth Mae Poarch.

Gospel Advocate, September 25, 1919, page 951.

Roberson, Ola

It is with feelings of sadness that we record the death of our friend and sister in Christ. Mrs. Ola Roberson, which occurred on December 3, 1913, at her home near Corinth, Ark. Sister Roberson was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Shofner, of this place. She was married to J. J. Roberson about four years ago, and they have continued to live in this community were both were reared. Sister Ola was twenty-six years old at the time of her death, and had been a devoted member of the church of Christ for twelve years, having become a Christian at the tender age of fourteen. She was sick only a few days, and her suffering was great. All that medical skill and loving hands could do was done for her; but the Lord had called, and she had to go to be with God and his holy angels. Sister Ola was so kind and tender-hearted that to know her was to love her. Her funeral was conducted by Elder Dorsey, of Nashville, Ark., on December 4, at the church on the hill, where she had made a practice of meeting with the disciples for worship on the first day of the week as the Book directs. Though rain was falling almost all day, a large number of people assembled to pay a last tribute of respect to the sister whom all loved. Her remains were laid to rest in the old Corinth churchyard to await the resurrection of the just. She leaves a husband, father mother, five brothers, and three sisters, all of whom she hoped to meet around the beautiful throne of God, where parting will come no more. She is the first child Brother and Sister Shofner have had to die, the youngest now being seventeen years old.

Mrs. Eliza Shofner.

Gospel Advocate, February 5, 1914, page 188.

Roberson, Terry Ann Pickett

Terry Ann Pickett Roberson, 36, of Montgomery, Ala., died March 19, after a 17-month battle with cancer. The funeral was conducted in Memphis, Tenn., by Jim Moffett, Chris Smith and Robert Brown. The burial was in Memphis Memory Gardens.

Roberson attended Freed-Hardeman College and was a preachers wife. She was a member of the Vaughn Park Church of Christ in Montgomery.

She is survived by her husband, Ron; a daughter, Amy Christine; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Pickett; and a brother, J. Paul Pickett.

Gospel Advocate, April, 1988, page 55.

Roberson, T. H.

The church at Russellville, Ala., has suffered a great loss in the death of T. H. Roberson. Not since the establishment of the congregation by Tolbert Fanning, more than a hundred years ago, has the influence of one man been so great. Many years ago, when a young man, Brother Roberson came in contact with the truth, through the preaching of T. B. Larimore, and severed his connection with the Baptist Church. He developed rapidly into a Bible teacher of the highest rank. For about forty years he was a teacher at Russellville, and for many years the senior elder. He probably conducted more funerals than any man in the county who was not giving full time to public teaching. He was active in the business world, serving as a teacher, bookkeeper, merchant, superintendent of education, and banker. He was never idle; and whatever he did, he did with all of his might. He was never too busy to give help and encouragement to those who called upon him. He was an abiding source of inspiration to the writer. His life was wonderful, and his works follow him.

Lindsay Allen.

Gospel Advocate, September 24, 1936, page 935.

Robert, Mary Augusta

Mary Augusta Robert, the widow of U. M. Robert, whose death occurred about two years ago, went to Richmond, Va., last September, to visit her only living sister, Mrs. C. E. Harrison, where she died. Her remains were brought back to Nashville and were buried, June 17, in Spring Hill Cemetery beside the grave of her husband. She was the daughter of James S. Harris, of Wilson County, where she was reared, six miles east of Lebanon. She attended the school of that celebrated and much-beloved educator, Mrs. Charlotte Fanning. She was married to U. M. Robert on July 8, 1861. She became a Christian in her girlhood and maintained her loyalty till her death. For some years she was a member and a faithful attendant of the assembly of the saints at Highland Avenue church of Christ. She had no children of her own, but her home was a haven for her orphaned sisters children, to the care of whom she devoted much of energy and life. Her lifes work is worthy of emulation.

James E. Scobey.

Gospel Advocate, July 15, 1920, page 701.

Robert, U. M.

Departed this life, Sunday, July 14, 1918, one of natures noblemen, U. M. Robert. He was born in Barnwell, S. C., in 1840. He was the second son of the union in marriage of U. M. Robert, Sr., and Rachel Rodes Robert. His father subsequently lived in Georgia and Florida, where the boyhood and young manhood days were passed. He became a student at Franklin College, near Nashville, Tenn., in 1860, then under the presidency of Tolbert Fanning. He obeyed the gospel while there and was baptized by Brother Fanning in 1861. Soon after the close of the session of the college, on July 8, he married Mary Augusta Harris, a daughter of James S. Harris, of Wilson County, Tenn. On September 28 he became a soldier in the Confederate Army and gallantly did service till the close of the war. During the conflict he was severely wounded in his hand, losing a thumb and one finger, but, after recovery, continued in the service. After the war he lived in Wilson County for some time, worshiping with the church at Old Bethlehem, among whom he had a host of friends. He, of late years, has been a citizen of Nashville, and died at his home, 2714 Capers Avenue. He died a cherished

member of Highland Church, where he was a regular attendant as long as he was able to be there. He was a modest, unassuming, Christian gentleman, who gained the respect and confidence of all with whom he came in contact. I have known him well for fifty-nine years, and all this time have known him to be a straightforward, earnest, consistent citizen and member of the church of Christ. He is survived by his wife, they never having been blest with children. There are many besides her who mourn the death of U. M. Robert.

James E. Scobey.

Gospel Advocate, December 19, 1918, page 1218.

Roberts, E. D.

Roberts, Susannah Mansel

Two more faithful disciples of Christ have gone to receive their reward, Brother E. D. Roberts was born on February 26, 1816. He was married at Spring Creek, McMinn County, Tenn., in 1836 to Miss Susannah Mansel. They were baptized by Brother Robert Randolph a few weeks prior to their marriage. To them were born five sons, of whom only two are livingTimothy Roberts, of McMinn County, and T. M. Roberts, of Hill City, Tenn. The greater portion of their lives was spent in McMinn County, where they labored untiringly in the Masters cause with the little band of disciples at Spring Creek. In 1902 they accompanied their son, T. M. Roberts, and his family, to Chattanooga, where on June 6 Brother Roberts died of smallpox. Soon after Brother Roberts death his son removed his family to Hill City, where Sister Roberts spent the remainder of her earthly pilgrimage. She passed away on June 18, 1906, at the age of eighty-eight years and one month. She was a careful student of the Bible and taught her children to love and honor its precious truths. She had been a subscriber to the Gospel Advocate for a number of years, and always looked forward with much pleasure to its arrival. In the death of Brother and Sister Roberts the cause of Christ on earth loses two more earnest and influential workers who will ever be cherished in our memories for their many deeds of love and mercy.

Aruna Clark.

Gospel Advocate, January 10, 1907, page 28.

Roberts, Eva

Sister Eva Roberts, daughter of Brother J. M. and Sister Tabitha Foster, was born Dec. 24, 1872; died Dec. 28, 1896. In the summer of 1884, during a meeting at Beech Grove, conducted by Brother Granville Lipscomb, she, with another sister and two brothers, was baptized. In April, 1891, she was united in marriage to Wesley Roberts, who testifies to her noble traits in the capacity of a Christian wife. Eva leaves a little boy three years old to fight the battles of life without the soothing influence and loving advice of mother. Of course all will be done for him that can be done; but what is home without a mother? is still unanswered. She leaves a sorely distressed companion, father, mother, three sisters, and two brothers, besides relatives, brethren, and friends, to mourn her departure. We sorrow not as those who have no hope. May the bereaved ones find comfort in the promises of Him who passed through the gloom of death and brought life and immortality to light. May we all be more faithful in the discharge of our duty, that we may be prepared when the summons to us shall come.

W. Anderson., Carters Creek, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, January 28, 1897, page 60.

Roberts, Fannie B.

On April 22, 1908, the soul of Miss Fannie B. Roberts, of Troy, Tenn., left the scenes of mortality to dwell in the land of light and joy supernal. Sister Roberts was born on June 5, 1873, and this brief life of about one-third of a century was noble, humble, pure, faithful, and useful. Like the Savior, she went about doing good. When the sick needed help, by her the pure religion of James 1:27 was practiced. Her life was not the outward adorning of putting on of costly apparel, but that of a meek and quiet spirit, price. (1 Pet. 3:4.) At the age of seventeen years she obeyed the gospel, becoming a member of the church of Christ. At Troy, where she held her membership, she was in her place almost every Lords day to sing Christs praises and worship in the beauty of holiness. In her last days she suffered much, but was so patient, ever leaning on the arm of Jesus. To the dear brothers, sisters, and loved ones who are left behind, let us say: While we would have been so glad to have kept her with us, in all things the Lords will be done.

William S. Long.

Gospel Advocate, August 13, 1908, page 522.

Roberts, Flora Blanche

Miss Flora Blanche Roberts of Henderson, Tenn., departed this life Feb. 5, 1979 in the beautiful 50-year-old frame house in which she lived for the past half century. She was the oldest of the seven children of George W. and Martha Viola Roberts who moved from six miles east of Lexington, Tenn., to a farm two miles east of Henderson at the River Bridge. This farm had been purchased from the late N. B. Hardeman who was a close friend of the family.

The above move was made by a four-unit wagon train and required two days during the week of Christmas, 1917. The sole purpose of the move was to get the children in reach of the church and a Christian school. To further carry out this motive, they moved to town in 1921 where the entire family was in easy walking distance of the church and college.

Miss Flora or Sister Flora as she was affectionately called by her many preacher boys who lived in her spacious ten-room house, obeyed the gospel in 1915 and we think was baptized by Brother Hardeman. Flora had many interests: First, concern for her parents with whom she lived until their deaths, then for the brothers and sisters who continued to look upon her house as home. Second, for the hundreds of boys and girls she taught during nearly half a century in the elementary schools of Chester, Gibson and Henderson Counties. Third, love for the church and a community interest in her neighbors and fellow townsmen. For many years she served as head of the flower and food committee in her area of town. Fourth, but not least her boys, her preacher boys who lived with her before Freed-Hardeman had sufficient dormitory space to house them all. And since then never a lectureship has passed but she had her boys who have become preachers, to fill her house. The 1978 lectureship was no exception. Though she had been in failing health since last summer and seriously ill since November, she told Bruce Jackson and Bill Bates to come ahead to her house and they were at her bedside when she breathed the last. Needless to say, they were a great comfort to the brothers and sisters.

Brother Jackson of Williamsburg, Va., assisted by Brother Patterson of the Henderson church, conducted the funeral Feb. 7, and she was buried beside her mother in the Henderson Cemetery.

Gospel Advocate, April 12, 1979, page 235.

Roberts, George W.

Dr. Geo. W. Roberts died December 25, 1886 near Bear Creek Springs, Boone county, Ark., leaving three brothers, one sister, five loving children and their devoted Christian mother. He was born January 9, 1819 in Blount county, Tennessee, was married to Miss Jennie Loy in 1844, became a Christian in 1848 and during the remaining 18 years of his life seemed to be a very faithful follower of Jesus and was elder of the congregation where he lived at the time of his death. He was a dear lover of music and during the last hours of his illness requested his brother and children who were present to sing How firm a foundation and On Jordans Stormy banks I stand while he repeated them from memory.

It is comforting to known that his whole mind was engrossed in the subject of religion and that he died in the triumphs of a living faith. According to his request J. W. Sanders preached his funeral just before his body was consigned to the tomb.

May the Lord bless the bereaved family.

T. J. Sanders., Batavia, Ark.

Gospel Advocate, March 23, 1887, page 191.

Roberts, Howard

Howard Roberts, an elder and 40-year member of the Madison, Tenn., Church of Christ, died Jan. 25 after a six-month battle with Lou Gehrigs Disease.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Margaret, four daughters and six grandsons.

Roberts was active as superintendent of Madison Childrens Home from 1977-1985, director of fiscal affairs for the Madison congregation, coordinator for the Christian Care Center, chairman of Madisons Golden Age Village retirement center and director of the benevolent ministry.

Roberts served in the U.S. Army for 25 years and was awarded Tennessees highest military decoration for outstanding service as an adviser to the Tennessee National Guard. While stationed in Puerto Rico for three years, he served as associate minister for the church there.

After retiring from military service, Roberts became employed with the Nashville Housing Authority.

Gospel Advocate, May, 1991, page 29.

Roberts, J. W.

Dr. J. W. Roberts, 54, an Abilene Christian College faculty member since 1946, died at 3:05 A.M. April 15, following a heart attack at West Texas Medical Center in Abilene, Texas.

Funeral was held April 17 at the College church in Abilene. Officiating were Bob Douglas and J. D. Thomas.

Dr. Roberts, a professor of Bible and Greek at ACC, was admitted to the hospital March 29 and suffered the fatal heart attack while undergoing tests.

Dr. Roberts had written several publications and was either a staff member or contributing writer for a number of periodicals.

Born August 28, 1918, in Henderson County, Tenn., he received a diploma from Freed-Hardeman in 1938. He received the bachelors degree in Bible from ACC in 1942, graduating summa cum laude as valedictorian of his class. He was also a member of Alpha Chi, honor society.

He married Delno Wheeler June 2, 1942. Mrs. Roberts has served as secretary to former ACC President and now Chancellor Don H. Morris since 1953.

Dr. Roberts received the masters degree in religious education from the University of Wichita in 1945 and took a leave of absence from ACC in 1951-53 to attend the University of Texas where he earned the Ph.D. in 1955.

Prior to joining the ACC faculty, he served as minister for churches of Christ in Iran, Tex., Wichita, Kans., and Indianapolis, Ind. He preached for several churches in the Abilene area while on the ACC faculty, including seven and half years at Perrin, Tex. He was a deacon of the College Church of Christ.

Dr. Roberts began as an instructor in ACCs Bible Department and was promoted to assistant professor in 1949, associate professor in 1953 and professor in 1959. He was also a member of the committee on instruction and the graduate council and had served as director of graduate studies and chairman of the ACC athletic committee.

Survivors are his wife, Delno; a son, Jay of Nashville, Tenn.; a daughter, Mrs. James (Kathy) Brown of Wolfe City; two brothers, Bill and R. L. of Abilene; five sisters, Mrs. Bettye Blay, Abilene, Mrs. Luther Shepherd of Burkesville, Ky., Mrs. J. B. Hayes of Scottsdale, Ariz., Mrs. Bill Clovis of St. Marys, W. Va., and Mrs. Jerry Hill of Mexico City, Mexico; his mother, Mrs. Stella Roberts of Abilene and two grandchildren.

Clark Potts.

Gospel Advocate, May 17, 1973, page 322.

Roberts, James Madison

James Madison Roberts was born January 13, 1860; departed this life December 24, 1939, at his home on North Walnut Street, Kannapolis, N. C. In 1886, he married Miss Betty Elizabeth Hood, and to this union were born the following children: J. N. Roberts, Beaufird Roberts, Mrs. Beulah Scercy, and Miss Mary Roberts, all of Kannapolis; another child, Mrs. Jesse Louis, preceded him in death, October 20, 1933. He was a faithful and loving father as well as a faithful member of Midway Church, Kannapolis, N. C. The funeral was conducted by J. Harrison Daniels; interment was at Greenlawn Cemetery, China Grove, N. C. Besides his wife and children he leaves to mourn his passing a host of friends.

J. Harrison Daniels., 1611 Fairview Avenue, Charlotte, N. C.

Gospel Advocate, February 1, 1940, page 119.

Roberts, J. N.

On July 4, 1930, about 8 A.M., Brother J. N. Roberts, of Avenue L and Forty-eighth Street, Chattanooga, Tenn., bade time and friends adieu and surrendered his spirit to God who gave it. Brother Roberts was fifty-three years old, and obeyed the gospel about fifteen years ago. His membership was with the Rossville congregation, and he had for some years filled the office of an elder in that congregation. He was a lovable man, and had many friends. He was always cheerful and looked on the bright side of everything. He took much interest in the church and its work. He leaves a good wife, who loved him beyond expression; a daughter, Mrs. C. C. Jones; a son, Harry Roberts, married, and his father-in-law, Mr. Murdock. The funeral was conducted by the writer, assisted by Aruna Clark, the recent minister of the Rossville church; also by W. Clarence Cook, Grady Slatton, and others, in song and prayer. After the services his remains were interred in Forest Hill Cemetery, beside two of his children.

W. C. Phillips.

Gospel Advocate, July 31, 1930, page 736.

Roberts, Johne Garner

Johne Garner Roberts, 74, died July 27.

She was a clerk at Abilene Christian University for 19 years and was named the schools Outstanding Employee of the Year for 1991-92.

Roberts, a native of Belton, Texas, was preceded in death by her husband, R. L. Roberts Jr., church historian, elder for the University Church of Christ in Abilene, and assistant librarian at ACU for 21 years, who died in 1998.

She is survived by her three sons, Garner, Dwight and John; one daughter, Carol Campbell; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Abilene, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, September, 1999, page 44.

Roberts, L. H.

When friendships are real, they are not brittle threads, but the solidest things we know. Having enjoyed the friendship and the fellowship of Christian men and women for so many years, it is easy for me to know that Emerson spoke the truth when he wrote the words quoted above. Its truthfulness was vividly brought before me when L. H. Roberts (Pat Roberts) died, for I had loved and esteemed him for his friendship and for his fellowship as a Christian. His home was in Troy, Tenn. He was born on May 27, 1877, and was married to Ethel M. Bryant in December, 1902. Two children came to this home. Mary, a beautiful and attractive little girl, is now twelve years old; the other died at about two years of age. Brother Roberts was baptized by C. E. Holt in 1901. It is no extravagant or idle statement to say that all who knew him will testify that he lived a consistent Christian until the day of his death, which occurred in his home in Troy, April 18, 1927. Troy is richer because he lived and worshiped there. The church in whose simple services he took such delight, his brothers, his wife, his little daughter, all his relatives, and a great host of friends have something solid waiting just out yonder in eternity. He is not dead; he is just away. Because I live, ye shall live also. Whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? Brother Pat believed it. I believe it, and I do not believe that all the grave-diggers in the world can bury eternal life. Let us sorrow not as others who have no hope; but, with a hope made sacred and sure by the gospel of Christ and with a faith undisturbed, let us hope and dream of that eternal life that awaits the faithful.

E. P. Smith.

Gospel Advocate, July 21, 1927, page 689.

Roberts, Lelia Jane Quisenberry

Lelia Jane Quisenberry was born March 5, 1858; departed this life July 7, 1941, at her home, near Hallsville, Mo. On September 27, 1877, she was united in marriage with Caleb S. Roberts, who survives. To this union four children (one daughter and three sons) were born, all of whom survive. During her early married life she became identified with the church, and journeyed to the end of life with an abiding faith in its glorious power to save. She was a great lover of the church and all its ordinances. Some years ago, in her more active life, it was her pleasure and privilege to keep and prepare the communion service. The extreme care she used in its preparation and observance was a fair index to her devotion to the church. Her entire life was lived in the community of Hallsville. Many preachers of the gospel have passed on to their reward who were the recipients of the hospitality of her home, and there are many who remain to hear with regret of her passing and to feel that one more who did all she could to make her home truly the preachers home has passed on to her reward. The funeral service was conducted in the Old Red Top meetinghouse by V. M. Gilbert, of Jefferson, Iowa, after which the body was laid to rest in the cemetery at Centralia.

Gratefully submitted by Her Children.

Gospel Advocate, July 31, 1941, page 742.

Roberts, Lillie May

Sister Lillie May Roberts, of Humphreys County, Tenn., was born on June 11, 1887; was born into the family of God on August 30, 1905; and died on November 26, 1905, at the age of eighteen years, five months, and fifteen days. She leaves a father, a mother, and several brothers and sisters to mourn their loss. While her death to them was a great shock, to her it was but a triumphant entrance into the bright beyond, for she was true to the faith. Funeral services were conducted by the writer, and the burial was at the Anderson burying ground.

A. S. Derryberry.

Gospel Advocate, December 14, 1905, page 796.

Roberts, Martha

On September 12, 1924, I went to Mercer County, Ky., near Harrodsburg, to speak words of comfort to the sorrowing relatives and friends at the funeral service of Sister Martha Roberts. She was born on February 2, 1848, and her spirit left its earthly dwelling place on September 11, 1924. Sister Roberts was the wife of John Roberts, who preceded her in death a few years. As a heritage of Jehovah, there were born to them fourteen children, fifty grandchildren, and forty-eight great-grandchildren. I have never seen a family more devoted to their mother and more deeply grieved over her departure than the Roberts family. Besides her children, Sister Roberts leaves behind four brothers and three sisters. She became obedient to the faith early in life, and was true and faithful to the end. I believe that the loss to the family in her going is very greatly outweighed by her eternal gain. Precious in the sight of Jehovah is the death of his saints, and to depart this life and be with Christ is very far better. Her children, who should rise up and call her blessed, should not sorrow as many who have no hope. One of her sons suggested that I read and emphasize at the funeral the description of a worthy woman given in the last chapter of Proverbs. He assured me that much of this was very applicable to his mother. With much tenderness the body was buried close by the Berea church house, where the service was conducted.

Thomas D. Rose.

Gospel Advocate, January 29, 1925, page 115.

Roberts, Mary

It becomes my sad duty of respect to chronicle the death of my dear aunt, Mary Roberts. Mary Roberts, the daughter of Sterling and Mary Harris, was born in Overton County, Tenn., on November 13, 1828, but was reared in Jackson County, on Cumberland River, near Sugar Creek. Here she lived till death. She was first married to Daniel Johnson, and to this union one daughter, Mary, was born, who lived to the age of about forty years, and died the wife of W. G. Cox.) Uncle Daniel Johnson died soon after he and Aunt Mary married. She was next married to Uncle Louis Langford, and to this union was born one son, William, who lived to the age of about fifty-three years and died without any marriage. She was next married to Uncle Henry Roberts, who left this country during the Civil War on account of his political views, and she never knew what became of him; and to this union was born one daughter, Jainie, who died in her youth. After this Aunt Mary took her daughter, Mary Johnson, and her son, William Langford, and battled honestly for a living and became wealthy. She survived her children, her husband, and all of her fathers family but her brother, William Harris, of Meagsville, Tenn.; and her youngest sister, Emily McGlasson of New Boston, Texas. She and her son took Charley Kirkpatrick from an orphans school in Nashville, Tenn., and reared him, also took a poor woman with two children (Emmy McGee) and provided for them for many years. Aunt Mary sweetly fell asleep on October 23, 1912. After services by the writer, her body was laid to rest in the Harris Cemetery in the presence of a large crowd of relatives, friends, and neighbors.

Hiram Pharris.

Gospel Advocate, March 20, 1913, page 280.

Roberts, Mary Evaline Shelton

Mrs. Mary Evaline Shelton was born on August 16, 1873. She was married to A. T. Roberts on July 6, 1892, near Dukedom, Tenn. To this union were born four childrentwo boys and two girlsall of whom are now living. Sister Roberts became a Christian in 1891, and lived as earnest and devoted member of the church of Christ until her death, June 1, 1922. She was a true and devoted wife and mother. Every one who knew her honored and respected her. I knew her from her infancy till her death almost as I know my own children. I never knew a better, purer, more upright, more faithful Christian than she was, I think. She knew every one till the last. I am sorry to say that some of her children are not Christians. I earnestly pray that they may soon realize their duty and do it. Funeral services were conducted by the writer, assisted by Brother E. L. Whitaker. Her remains were buried in Elmwood Cemetery.

E. C. L. Denton.

Gospel Advocate, June 29, 1922, page 618.

Roberts, Matilda

Sister Matilda Roberts was born in 1839, and died on October 23, 1903. She was married to William Roberts on October 14, 1858. They were blessed with several children, all of whom are married. Sister Roberts obeyed the gospel, under the preaching of Brother J. P. Litton, at Craigfield, Williamson County, Tenn., about nine years ago. She was a good, Christian woman, and was loved by all who knew her. She leaves her husband and children and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her departure. 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.

W. T. Beasley., Fernvale, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, December 3, 1903, page 778.

Roberts, Mattie

On June 25, 1902, the death angel visited the home of Sister Mattie Roberts, stepmother of Dr. W. F. Roberts, of Troy, Tenn., and took the dear sister from her children and earthly home to her dear husband and children that had preceded her to the better land. Sister Roberts was born on December 24, 1853, and became a Christian at the age of eighteen years. She was married to Brother A. L. Roberts on July 7, 1876, and was a devoted Christian; a true, faithful wife and mother. She belongs to the class of which it is written: Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.

C. E. Holt.

Gospel Advocate, November 27, 1902, page 762.

Roberts, Nannie C.

Mrs. Nannie C. Roberts, wife of W. D. Roberts, departed this life, April 28, 1940, being fifty-five years old. She arose early as usual on this Lords day morning, intending to do her housework and then attend the services of her home congregation at Troy, Tenn. But she was stricken ill soon after arising and passed away at 2:00 P.M. She was kind and agreeable, loyal to the church, often walking a mile alone through all kinds of weather to worship. She was a good student of Gods word, being almost always ready with answers to all questions asked in the Bible study. She leaves her broken-hearted husband; one daughter, Mrs. Melvin Overall; and one son, Frank Roberts, of Memphis, Tenn. May God bless her family and cause her going to bring them closer to him who doeth all things well.

Mrs. W. F. Roberts, Troy, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, August 22, 1940, page 815.

Roberts, Rebekah Jane Small

Rebekah Jane Small was born on April 3, 1865, and died on November 4, 1904, aged thirty-nine years, seven months, and six days. On September 7, 1884, she was united in marriage to Brother James W. Roberts, whom she made a faithful and devoted companion until called to be the companion, we trust, of those who vie around the throne of Jehovah. Sister Roberts was the mother of several children, whom she endeavored to bring up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Most of these children are members of the one body, and we trust they will prove true to a Christian mothers training and to the profession which they have made. Those who are yet in their young and tender years we feel sure will be pointed to the true Light by their father and taught to remember their dear mothers love. Remember, dear children, that if you would meet that precious mother who has gone before to beckon you on to that eternal home of love, you must steady, learn, and do the will of our Heavenly Father. Sister Roberts obeyed the gospel when she was about sixteen years old; became a member of the congregation worshiping at Holly Hill, and remained in its fellowship till her death. While this church has ever fallen short of its duty since I have known it, I have usually found Sister Roberts in the front ranks of those who were endeavoring to keep house for the Lord. Sorrowing companion, take courage; weeping children, cheer up. Only a soldier has fallen at the post of duty. Close up the ranks, dear brethren and sisters; the battle will soon be over and the victory won.

W. N. Abernathy.

Gospel Advocate, January 5, 1905, page 15.

Roberts, R. L., Sr.

R. L. Roberts, Sr., departed this life September 22 in Gainesville, Texas. He was sixty-three years of age. At the time of his death he was preacher for the Eastside Church in Whitesboro. Services were held in Whitesboro with M. E. Blake speaking many good words of comfort, assisted by Boyd Taylor and Noble Patterson. Services were also conducted in Abilene, Texas, at the Highland Avenue Church building by J. R. Endsley and Paul Southern. Interment was in Abilene. The deceased was born in Henderson County, Tenn. He attended Freed-Hardeman College and began preaching the gospel more than forty-seven years ago. He preached for churches in Tennessee, Kentucky, Oklahoma and Texas. He also labored in difficult fields where the church is not well known, principally in Pennsylvania and Montana. His last sermon was preached the morning before his death. He is survived by his wife and a family of eight faithful children; Mrs. Luther Shepherd, of Burkesville, Ky.; J. W. Roberts, who teaches in the Bible department at Abilene Christian College and preaches for the church in Perrin, Texas; Mrs. J. B. Hayes, of Odessa, Texas; the writer, who preaches for the church in Alvord, Texas; Mrs. Bill Blay, of Big Lake, Texas; Mrs. Bill Clovis, of St. Marys, W. Va.,; Mrs. Jerry Hill, of Mathis, Texas; and Billy of Whitesboro. He was a good father, a devoted husband and a faithful Christian. He loved the church and the gospel.

R. L. Roberts, Jr.

Gospel Advocate, October 17, 1957, page 671.

Roberts, R. L., Jr.

R. L. Roberts Jr. died Sept. 12 at his home. He was 73.

A retired library faculty member at Abilene Christian University, Roberts was also a well-known church historian.

Roberts graduated from ACU in 1947 and earned a master of library science degree from North Texas State University in 1967. He preached for several congregations in Texas and taught Bible and church history at Fort Worth Christian College from 1962-65.

In 1966 Roberts joined the library faculty at ACU and worked there until his retirement in 1987. He then devoted himself to research in restoration church history.

He has written numerous articles on restoration history and New Testament topics for several Christian publications. Pepperdine University awarded him the distinguished Christian Service Award in 1994.

He was a member of the University Church of Christ.

Roberts is survived by his wife, Johne; three sons, Garner, Dwight and John; one daughter, Carol Ann Campbell; five sisters, Mildred Shepherd, Mary Hayes, Bettye Blay, Mrs. Bill Clovis and Mrs. Jerry Hill; one brother, Bill Roberts; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. (Picture included)

Abilene, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, November, 1998, page 45.

Roberts, Roland D.

Roland D. Roberts passed from his earth on October 26, 1974. He was born October 28, 1896, Brushy Creek in Ellis County, Texas, of the union of Roland Delevor Roberts and Mary Evalyn Douglas.

Brother Roberts participated in many church activities, serving as an elder for the Tenth and Rockford church of Christ and the Fifteenth and Delaware church of Christ in Tulsa, Okla. He was one of the charter members of the Northside church of Christ of Lancaster, Texas. Brother Roberts was the first Secretary-Treasurer of the Board of Directors of Oklahoma Christian College.

He is survived by his wife, Cortez Williamson Roberts, two sons, R. Douglas Roberts, Jr., of Nashville, Tenn., C. Wayne Roberts of Lancaster, Texas; two daughters, Kathleen Ann Cox of Alexandria, Va., and Mary Melta Roberts of Lancaster, Texas; two grandchildren, Jay Bryan Roberts and Lina Charlene Roberts; five sisters, Mrs. Jack Orr, and Mrs. Clyde Orr of Vernon, Texas, Mrs. Max Harper, Sr. of Dallas, Texas, Mrs. Earl Egan of Waxahachie, Texas, and Mrs. Ralph Schofield of Denton, Texas. Please send memorials to R. D. Roberts Loan Fund, Oklahoma Christian College, Edmond, Okla.

R. D. Roberts, Jr.

Gospel Advocate, November 28, 1974, page 765.

Roberts, Sallie

Mrs. Sallie Roberts, Troy, Tenn., passed from this life February 4, 1961, at the Obion County Hospital, Union City, Tenn. Funeral services were conducted at the Troy church building February 6, by Thomas Scott and the writer. The interest of the church was the life of sister Roberts. She made a great contribution to it during her church life. She was a close and constant student of the Bible and possessed a great knowledge of it. Teaching it to others was her glory. She taught the ladies class at the church each Sunday morning for a long period of years and also a ladies class weekly in her home. The women of the community will long remember the good that has come from her classes. Perhaps many preachers will remember the Preachers Room in the home of Dr. and Sister Roberts. It was a room especially prepared for the visiting evangelist during the annual meeting. While there each one was to sign the register. It contained a long list of preachers names, many of them the old soldiers of the cross who have long gone to their rest. During their active days no one had to wonder who would take care of the visiting evangelist. The preachers room was always ready. For quite a long time Sister Roberts was afflicted of arthritis and had to use a wheel chair. She had a ramp built at the church building so she could be pushed into the auditorium. She was determined to the last not to miss the worship. The church in Troy, no doubt, exists today mostly through the untiring, unwavering, patient labor of Dr. and Sister Roberts. I began my work as a minister in Troy and they were a great help to me in getting started. I could never forget their influence in my life. Dr. Roberts passed away in 1941. Sister Roberts soon would have been eighty-seven.

Homer Royster.

Gospel Advocate, March 23, 1961, page 190.

Roberts, Taylor

Taylor Roberts passed away at his home in Cornishville, Ky., November 3, 1934, at the age of sixty-two years. Brother Roberts was a faithful member of the church, having at one time been very active as a worker in his home congregation. On account of his stand against speculations which had crept into his home church he was not allowed to use his influence as he once did. This necessitated his going elsewhere to worship. Brother Roberts was a man of faith. I have never seen a more untiring worker. His aim and purpose were to keep the church pure and free from mens opinions. As a result he was not liked by those who wanted their way in the church. Brother Roberts is survived by his wife, Sarah Amanda Roberts, and eight children, all of whom are grown. The writer spoke at his funeral, which was held in Mount Zion Church. Interment was in Glenns Creek Cemetery.

R. A. Craig.

Gospel Advocate, November 15, 1934, page 1111.

Roberts, Mrs. W. A.

Sister W. A. Roberts, pioneer resident of Weatherford and Parker County, Texas, passed away suddenly on February 7, and was laid to rest the following day in the Oakland Cemetery at Weatherford. She was born in Tennessee, December 29, 1830, and on her last birthday celebrated with the members of her Sunday-school class and other friends the eighty-fourth anniversary of her birth at a dinner given at her home. She came to Texas with her husband in 1873 and settled in Ellis County. Three years later they moved to Parker County, where Sister Roberts had been a resident for fifty-nine years at the time of her death. She had been a member of the church of Christ since a young woman, and was untiring in her work for the Master. The last Lords day of he life found her at the house of the Lord in Weatherford. When she retired Wednesday night, she hoped to be able to attend a quilting on Thursday which was being done by ladies of the church. Sister Roberts is survived by five sons and four daughters: Jesse J. Roberts, Homer Roberts, Mrs. Frank Thomas, Miss Ida Roberts, Weatherford; L. E. Roberts, Fort Worth; R. T. Roberts, San Angelo; C. P. Roberts, Duncan, Okla.; Mrs. Wiley Davis, Abilene, Texas; and Mrs. A. J. Stanger, Bloomington, Ill. She is also survived by one brother, Willie Copeland, of Roscoe, Texas. The funeral was conducted by the writer, assisted by Dwain Jones.

Paul Southern.

Gospel Advocate, February 28, 1935, page 215.

Roberts, W. F.

The very pleasant, useful, and profitable life of Dr. W. F. Roberts, of Troy, Tenn., came to an end at the Union City Clinic on September 26, 1941, at the age of seventy-two years. He was born in Henry County, near Paris, Tenn., July 11, 1889; but he came to Obion County in early life, where he practiced medicine for about fifty years. He was a graduate of medicine of the University of Tennessee, and took postgraduate work in the University of Chicago. I have never seen a man with more friends among all classes than he had. During his illness of about four weeks it seemed that everyone was much concerned. Even the colored people came to see and know of his welfare. In some ways he was too good and kind to his fellows for their own benefit. His ambition was very noble. He wanted to serve his fellow man, and went as long as possible to ease their ills and pains. Often asked why he did not retire, his reply was: I want to die in the harness. This desire was granted him almost completely. He served as elder and song leader in the church at Troy for many years. He will be missed there probably more than any other place. Sometimes he would come in latehad been on a call. He has now gone on the most important call, from which he shall not return. I loved him very dearly. He will live in my heart as long as my heart lives. He was not only one of the best friends I ever had, but was everything a father could be to a son. I always felt free to go to him for any cause that was right. I feel as one other man was heard to say as he stood by his body: I hope I never think as much of another man as I thought of him. But regardless of how dear our friends are, our earthly lives must come to a close sometime. His body now reposes in East View Cemetery, Union City, Tenn., to await the glad morning of the resurrection when all of Gods faithful children will be gathered home to bask in the sunny smiles of Gods love. I am sure many of our preacher brethren whose names appear on the preachers record that hangs on the wall of the preachers room in Dr. and Sister Roberts home will be interested in these lines. He leaves a very devoted companion to carry on a while in his absence.

Homer Royster., Obion, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, November 20, page 1941, pages 1126.

Roberts, W. F.

Dr. W. F. Roberts, Troy, Tenn., answered the last roll call early in October of this year. The writer assisted Brother Royster, who has been preaching for the church at Troy for several years, in the funeral services. Dr. Roberts was a friend to humanity, and the large crowd that attended the service proved that both white and colored, rich and poor loved him. I know of no man who came nearer being a true friend of the people in general, or one who will be more missed by the public. The church at Troy will miss his wise counsel, his teaching, and his good example. The Doctor and his noble companion have maintained a room for preachers. The register kept in that room shows the name of many preachers, not a few of whom have passed. To Sister Roberts we extend our sympathies, and pray that she may carry on until our Lord unites them again in the new life that awaits the faithful.

A. O. Colley., Dyersburg, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, December 25, 1941, page 1247.

Roberts, Willie J.

Bro. Willie J. Roberts, son of J. W. and Mary C. Roberts, was born in Warren county, Tenn., April 12, 1872. Obeyed the gospel under the personal ministry of Bro. Richard Gillintine, Nov. 3, 1889. Emigrated in Arkansas the latter part of the year 1889, with his parents. The writer can only speak of him from his first acquaintance with him, which was on his arrival in White county, Arkansas, in 1889. Bro. Willie was universally loved and respected by all who knew him. With the highest moral and religious conceptions, he practiced the same in his every day life. He was confined to his room for nearly two months, with typhoid fever; which confinement he bore with great patience and Christian resignation; and before his death, which occurred Nov. 8, 1891, he spoke several times of his future prospects, which he assured his friends were all bright. His only desire was that he might live to do good. His death is greatly mourned by many friends and acquaintances, especially relatives, school-mates, and teachers, as he was an obedient son and pupil, and a pleasant class-mate. May we all live so as to meet Bro. Willie in the sweet by and by.

J. B. Matthews.

Gospel Advocate, December 31, 1891, page 830.

Robertson, Alice A.

The Thayer Street Church, of Akron, Ohio, regrets to announce the death of Sister Alice A. Robertson, one of the oldest and best loved members of the brotherhood. Sister Robertson died November 20, 1937, and is survived by her husband, Loderic J. Robertson. Both have been members of the church for over fifty years, and are well known in church activities, not only in Akron, but in Texas and Tennessee as well. Three daughters (Wilma L., Mrs. R. A. Pamplin, and Mrs. Henry McGarvey) and six sons (W. L., Albert, Eugene, A. B., R. B., and E. E.) survive. They are all members of the church in different parts of the United States. The church here and the brotherhood as a whole suffer a great loss at the passing of so loved a mother and so great a Christian as Sister Robertson.

James P. Miller.

Gospel Advocate, January 6, 1938, page 23.

Robertson, Charles R.

Charles R. Robertson, son of Brother and Sister L. J. Robertson, 356 Grand Avenue, Akron, Ohio, departed this life at 11:30 A.M., November 21, 1930, leaving father, mother, sisters, brothers, together with a host of friends, to mourn his going. Charles was born on November 13, 1885, at Lynchburg, Tenn. He was baptized at the age of nineteen. He was an exceptionally fine man, a faithful child, a loyal brother, a patient sufferer, and a consecrated member of the church of Christ. The writer conducted the funeral at the residence in the presence of a large gathering, after which his body was placed in beautiful Rose Hill Cemetery. Though he be dead, he will continue to speak through the ages. May Gods richest blessings rest upon his loved ones.

J. H. Hines.

Gospel Advocate, January 1, 1931, page 20.

Robertson, Clara

Sister Clara Robertson, daughter of Prof. J. E. and Mrs. Lillian Robertson, fell asleep in Christ, gently, quietly, and sweetly, on March 12, 1907. It was the happy privilege of the writer to bury this sweet child in baptism when she was about ten or eleven years old. I am assured that she added the Christian graces rapidly and wore them regularly, and that they fit her most charmingly and enabled her to depart in the triumphs of a living faith, seemingly without a struggle. While it is hard to give her up, yet it would be selfish to hold her back, if we could, from her dear papa, who preceded her several years. We tender to the heartbroken family our sympathy. I know what it is to part from dear ones. Gethsemane, O Gethsemane! A horrid garden to live in; but faithfulness a while longer will give us an entrance into Eden.

M. H. Northcross.

Gospel Advocate, May 30, 1907, page 350.

Robertson, Claude T.

Claude T. Robertson, minister of the Urbandale church in Dallas, Texas, died August 14. Funeral services were conducted in the Urbandale building August 17. Another service was conducted in Tulsa, Okla., where he was buried next day. Brother Robertson was born in Sparta, Tenn., July 27, 1913. In 1932 he was married to Freda Fritts, whose father was a gospel preacher. Until 1952 he continued in business, preaching on Sunday since 1935. At the time he started giving all his time to preaching he was Supervisor of Sales for Spear Feed Company. Brother Robertson did successful local work in Haskell, Okla., Altus, Okla., Paris, Texas, and Urbandale in Dallas. He held gospel meetings in many states and was one of the most successful preachers who ever preached in a gospel meeting, as he was also in his local work. Brother Robertson leaves his wife, three daughters and other relatives who are comforted in the promises God has made to the faithful. The Urbandale church in Dallas is to be commended for the wonderful way they provided for this preacher and his family during a period of illness that lasted for about a year.

Cleon Lyles.

Gospel Advocate, September 3, 1964, page 574.

Robertson, Frances J.

On Tuesday, September 29, 1925, occurred the death of one of our pioneer Christian women, Mrs. Frances J. Robertson, aged eighty-nine years, who died at her home on North San Antone Avenue, Pomona, Cal., where she with her husband had lived for twenty-two years. Together they cleared the land of its sagebrush and planted it to citrus fruit, and through the years they have watched the country about them build up. Sister Robertson is survived by her husband, Jordan T. Robertson; one son, W. S. Robertson; and two grandsons, Frank and Ben Robertson. She obeyed the gospel in the year 1876, and had been a faithful worker in the church since that time. Sister Robertson was confined to her bed for a number of months previous to her death, and suffered intensely, but through it all her uppermost thoughts were of the church and its welfare. Her zeal for the cause was most remarkable. She possessed a memory that had few equals. She was a stanch friend of the Gospel Advocate, and had been a subscriber almost from the time it first began to be published. Its coming was always looked forward to by her as the coming of a dear friend. Our loss of one so dear is heavens gain. I tried as best I could at the funeral services to speak words of consolation and encouragement to the bereaved.

E. T. Hamilton.

Gospel Advocate, June 24, 1926, page 596.

Robertson, J. M.

Brother J. M. Robertson, of Nashville, Tenn., was born on February 11, 1845, and died at the home of his daughter, Sister Finis Hamilton, on May 28, 1913. He had been a member of the body of Christ for a number of years and died in the triumphs of a living faith. At the same place his little granddaughter, Fruzzie Hamilton, aged one year, three months, and seventeen days, died three or four hours before her grandfather was buried. At the family burying ground, near Laguardo, Wilson County, a large number of their friends and neighbors were present at the funeral service and burial. We would say to the bereaved ones: Weep not, as those who have no hope. Jesus said of little children: of such is the kingdom of heaven.

A. S. Derryberry.

Gospel Advocate, July 17, 1913, page 692.

Robertson, J. T.

J. T. Robertson was born in September, 1849, in Wilson County, Tenn., and died on June 5, 1929, at his home in Claremont, Calif., four years after the death of his wife, Fannie Shepard, also a native of Tennessee. He lived in Texas some years before coming to California. He is survived by one son, W. S. Robertson, and two grandsons, Bend and Frank. Two nieces were with him at the time of his deathMrs. Cora Ligon, of Waco, Texas, and Mrs. Fannie Heck, of San Diego, Calif. Uncle Jirden was dearly loved by every one. He lived a noble Christian life and set a good example for his children and all who knew him to live by, which is a great comfort to us. He had been a subscriber to theGospel Advocate for a number of years. Funeral services were held at the Todd and Reeves Chapel, at Pomona, Calif., conducted by Elder Williams, of the church of Christ.

(Mrs.) Cora Ligon.

Gospel Advocate, June 27, 1929, page 624.

Robertson, Jesse Anderson

Jesse Anderson Robertson was born October 17, 1893; departed this life January 18, 1946, at the age of fifty-two years, three months, and one day. He was married to Miss Ethel Ingram, May 13, 1916. He became obedient to the gospel September 9, 1922, being baptized by Andy T. Ritchie, Sr. Shortly after this he became very active in the Lords work. He was always on the alert and never grew weary in the work. We can honestly say that he truly fought a good fight, finished his course, kept the faith, and we are sure there is laid up for him the crown of life which will be given to all the faithful. He was always admonishing others to be faithful and never ceased urging others to attend worship regularly. He became paint poisoned (as he was a decorator by trade), and it caused rheumatism. He had not been able to do any work of that kind for ten years, but he was always ready to work for the Lord. He suffered his affliction with patience, although his sufferings were intense at times. He was bedfast for most of the last years of his life, as he had developed a serious heart affliction. He is survived by his wife, one son, three brothers, and one sister. Funeral services were conducted at Waverly Church, January 20, by Thomas J. Wagner, of Manchester, Tenn., assisted by Homer Royster, of Waverly, Tenn. His body was laid to rest in Marable Cemetery, Waverly, Tenn.

His Wife.

Gospel Advocate, May 30, 1946, page 523.

Robertson, Jesse A.

In January last the soul of Jesse A. Robertson, of Waverly, Tenn., departed his mortal body. Many friends, who had admired his strength of character, his godly conviction, and his Christian service, mourned his passing. To all who knew him he imparted spiritual strength, though that strength came from a body stricken with arthritis to the degree that he became unable to continue his regular line of work. Brother Jesse, as he was called by those who knew and loved him, never forgot his obligation to teach Gods word. It was said of him that he always had the proper word to comfort, to reprove, or to encourage, and that his speech was clothed in humility. Much of Brother Robertsons time was spent in the vicinity of Elysian Grove, near Waverly, Tenn., where for several years he conducted a Lords-day Bible school until ill-health eventually confined him. Upon my last seeing him I found his heart full of anxiety for the work he had tried so hard to organize. With only about six months of life before him, he expressed the fear that indifference would render all his efforts vain. Such deep consecration to the Lords work I have never seen, and the memory of Jesse A. Robertson fills my heart and the hearts of many with the remembrance of a sweet sacrifice to the Almighty. Brother Jesses accomplishments would have won him small acclaim, if any, were he to be judged by what the world believes to be essential to greatness; but tasks that really count in the Lords sight. He sought the favor of his God to reap eternal greatness and tell his blessings in peace. We do not forget. Though life is crushed from the petal, the fragrance lingers.

H. Carroll Lancaster.

Gospel Advocate, February 6, 1947, page 126.

Robertson, Jesse Vintson

Jesse Vintson Robertson, gospel preacher, elder, and educator, passed away suddenly in Chattanooga, Tenn., on May 10, 1982. He leaves a beloved and supportive wife of nearly 40 years, Mary Ethel Anthony; a son, Jesse Vintson Robertson, III; and a daughter, Deborah Wynn Robertson. Their home was always given to hospitality.

Having been born in Decatur, Tenn., Jan. 19, 1914, Brother Robertson was reared in Birmingham at the feet of the late John T. Lewis, whom he venerated and by whom he was baptized and married. After serving in the U.S. Air Force during World War II, he returned to complete his collegiate work. He attended Birmingham Southern, Alabama Christian, Huntingdon, and TennesseeChattanooga, where he was graduated with honors.

During more than 30 years as a gospel preacher, Brother Robertson served churches in Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia, including preaching 13 years each at Robertsdale, Ala., and at Soddy, Tenn. He served as an elder of the Soddy church, and later the North Hamilton congregation in the Chattanooga area made him an elder, in which capacity he was serving well at the time of his death.

Brother Robertsons years as an educator included teaching and administrative responsibilities. His years as a high school teacher, which included teaching in Boyd-Buchanan Christian School, brought him numerous honors.

Like the beloved Apostle Paul, Brother Robertson often supplemented his salary with other employment in order to more effectively serve in the kingdom. He was devoted to his family and worked tirelessly for the cause of Christ. Precious in the sight of Jehovah is the death of his saints. (Psalm 116:15.)

Curtis A. Cates., nephew, Alabama Christian School of Religion, P. O. Box 17096, Montgomery, Ala. 36117.

Gospel Advocate, July 15, 1982, page 444.

Robertson, Mary Jane

Departed this life, but entered into life eternal, sister Mary Jane Robertson, consort of Joseph Robertson, died at their residence near McConnell, Tenn., Sept. 4, 1891, aged sixty-seven years, seven months and eleven days. Our departed sister obeyed the gospel at the early age of seventeen years and united with the Christian church at Knob Creek. She was a dutiful wife, a faithful mother and a friend to the poor; she never failed nor ceased to be at the calls of the poor and needy. The sad scene was beheld by a number of sorrowing friends, and indeed sad it is; in the stormy scenes of life to have a devoted mother and loving wife called from us. She leaves a husband and five children as well as many friends to mourn her loss. To the bereaved husband and children, we would say, she cannot come to you, but you can go to her. Blessed are they that die in the Lord. Death is always sad, even in our autumn the years melancholy days, the sighing breeze mournfully sings the requiem of the falling leaf. But God, whose mercy we dare not question, took her from our clinging arms and from a love so brave and fearless that could forget every thought of self in ministering to a loved object. One by one our loved ones leave us all alone. But oh, comforting thought, there is a clime where the cheek loses not its bloom and the eye its sparkle, where the hand neer relaxes its loving clasp, and where, thank God, no heart-broken ones weep. Could we, with our dim sight and erring hearts even for a moment realize the joy of those who dwell in that city not made by hands; oh, how willingly would we resign our treasures and ever look above.

H. and A.

Gospel Advocate, September 30, 1891, age 603.

Robinson, Alice Lee

Sister Alice Lee Robinson, wife of our aged and beloved brother, W. J. Robinson, was born on May 16, 1856, in Mississippi, and died, in her home in Gould, Okla., on September 30, 1928, at eleven oclock, while the disciples of her Lord in that town were gathering to break bread. For fifty-four years she was a faithful wife, and for thirty-eight years she was a devoted Christian. The Gould church loved her, for she was a good woman. She was the last of fifteen children to die. Brother Robinson is the only living child of his fathers family. Brother E. S. Elkins, who for many years had known and loved the family, preached a good sermon on the Christians hope. I also spoke a short time. This funeral was especially sad because of the loneliness of Brother Robinson and because it brought to our memory Brother Bullington and Brother Moran, who died there within the last year.

John W. Pigg.

Gospel Advocate, October 18, 1928, page 1004.

Robinson, Carlene

Carlene Robinson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Robinson of Bluff City, Ark., was called to her heavenly home on January 16, 1933. Carlene was born on November 5, 1915. She was rapidly learning the great meaning of life, how to appreciate home and to tenderly love her father and mother, her two brothers, and her sister, whom she leaves behind. Her ideals were high, and they were laying for her the foundation of a happy, beautiful, useful life. There were many traits which endeared her to our hearts, and why they should be severed and broken while her young life was so full of hope and prospect, we do not now know; but the inevitable moment came to us, and we shall without rebellion respect and regard it. The comfort and consolation we have are in the fact that Carlene was a Christian. We can now see what it would mean to us if she had gone on without obedience to the gospel. The sadness, grief, and sorrow would be all but unbearable. How thankful we are that our Heavenly Father opened a way through Christ and that Carlene chose to walk in it! It gives us a new meaning to Pauls language: For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Carlene was my niece, and if she had not been a Christian, I could not have spoken at her funeral service. I knew then, as I know now, that all spiritual blessings and all the promises were hers; so with faith and hope and courage I read appropriate Scriptures and spoke the words of comfort and consolation. Blessed are they who do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

Warren E. Starnes.

Gospel Advocate, May 18, 1933, page 479.

Robinson, Elsie Lowry

Sister Elsie Lowry Robinson is no more upon earth. She passed over into the great beyond on October 11, 1921, to receive that reward that awaiteth the children of God. She was in the true sense a kind neighbor, a noble wife, one of the best of mothers, and above all, a good Christian. On account of her husbands business keeping him away from home a great deal of the time, the responsibility of looking after the home fell upon her, which duties she did not shirk, but stayed with and builded and guarded that home, and it was largely through her efforts and influence that her home and children were made what they were, and she was proud of them, and had much cause to be, and her husband and children reverenced and honored her. Her life is ended, her work well done, her battles have been fought and the victory won.

Uncle Billie.

Gospel Advocate, October 27, 1921, page 1060.

Robinson, G. H.

Brother G. H. Robinson passed from death unto life at the City Hospital, Lake City, Fla., on May 31, 1920, following an operation for tumor. Brother Robinson was thirty-six years old, and a member of the church of Christ at McKinley, near Lake City. He leaves a wife and two small children to battle with the world. He was an honest man who loved his family and the church, and we feel that God has in reserve for him a crown of life which he will give to him at the resurrection. To the bereaved widow and relatives I would say: Weep not as those who have no hope, but prepare to meet thy God at the judgment and spend eternity with Christ and loved ones gone on before, where separations are unknown. The writer was called upon to say the last words over his lifeless body, after which he was laid to rest in the cemetery at the Huntsville Methodist Church, eight miles away in the country.

J. O. Barnes.

Gospel Advocate, July 8, 1920, page 676.

Robinson, J. T.

J. T. (Jim) Robinson, eighty-one, passed away in Jackson, Tenn., April 15, 1957, after a short illness. He was a native of the Fairview community, near Milan, Tenn. He had lived in Jackson since 1938, and was an elder of the East Chester Street congregation. He had previously served as an elder at Highland Avenue in Jackson, at Bradford, and at Locust Grove, near Bradford. He was married in 1899 to Miss Pearl Ellen Taylor of Bradford, who survives him. Other survivors are five sons, Dorris G., Robinson, Memphis; L. D. Robinson, Harvey, Ill.; F. H. and J. W. Robinson, Lansing, Mich.; and Taylor Robinson, Jackson; three daughters, Mrs. A. Q. Newbill and Mrs. Aaron Swanson, Jackson, and Mrs. F. F. Baker, Chicago; a brother, Will Robinson, Greenfield; a sister, Mrs. W. A. McCoy, Cleburne, Texas; sixteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Wilburn Woodson and I conducted the funeral. Burial was at Locust Grove Cemetery. He was a friend to preachers, and was a hard worker in the church.

Carl B. Robinson.

Gospel Advocate, July 25, 1957, page 479.

Robinson, Mahulda

Sister Mahulda Robinson was born on March 30, 1836, and died on May 14, 1908. She became a member of the church of Christ in August, 1902; but she had devoted most of her life to Bible study and religious work. She was never married, but reared two nephews and one niece from childhood up, I being one of them. She had been failing in health for the past twelve months and was confined to her bed some eight weeks before death. She leaves one sister and two brothers to mourn her death. Her funeral was conducted by Brother N. O. Ray, and the interment was in Sabinal Cemetery.

R. V. Robinson., Sabinal, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, August 13, 1908, page 522.

Robinson, Marian

My mother, Mrs. Marian Robinson (nee Kinnie), died at Uvalde, Texas, on April 5, 1909. Mother was born in Jackson, Miss., on December 13, 1839, and was married to the late Confederate veteran, Archer B. Robinson, in 1860. She was a niece of the well-known and much-loved Charlotte Fanning, and when a child lived at the Fanning Orphan College, where her mother, Mrs. Marian Fall Kinnie, died. She was reared by her aunt, Charlotte Fanning, and her uncle, William Fall. She was also carefully educated by her uncle, George Fall, who lived on Deer Creek, Miss. In the year 1858 she graduated with honors from the State Normal College at Holy Springs, Miss. She had been a faithful member of the church of Christ ever since fifteen years of age, and died in the triumph of a living faith. She said she was ready to go. Mother was a good, Christian woman, generous and true; her heart was brave, warm, and tender. Amid the many trials that fell to her lot, she patiently bore her crosses. I am the only child living to mourn her sudden demise. I took her body to Del Rio, Texas, her former home, for interment. 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.

(Miss) Charlotte F. Robinson.

Gospel Advocate, June 10, 1909, page 726.

Robinson, Mary Elizabeth

On May 15, 1918, the angel of death visited the Robinson home at Bluff Springs, Ky., and claimed as its victim the wife of G. A. Robinson, deceased. Mary Elizabeth Robinson, daughter of Joseph W. and Mary Gosler Scates, was born on May 20, 1838, and was baptized into Christ in 1853 or 1854 by Alexander Campbell. She was married to G. A. Robinson on May 7, 1861, and to this union were born eight children. Sister Robinson leaves her children, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a host of friends to mourn their loss. The writer was called to conduct funeral services at the Robinson graveyard.

C. H. Baker.

Gospel Advocate, June 27, 1918, page 616.

Robinson, Valeria

Sister Valeria Robinson, widow of the late Dr. Robinson, of Lebanon, Tenn., died at the home of her sister, near Cainsville, on July 21, 1906. She lived sixty-seven years, and thirty-seven years of that time she spent in the church of God. She started out early in life to be a Methodist; but after hearing Brother Huffman preach the word she gave that up, was baptized into Christ, and was a faithful, consistent Christian for thirty-seven years. I made my home with Brother and Sister Robinson the first two years I lived in the State, and I had an opportunity to know them both. Sister Robinson loved the Lord and was especially fond of reading his word. She always took time from the duties and cares of her home to read the Bible. She and Dr. Robinson were always present in their places at churchat prayer meeting, at Sunday school, and at the worship. Her body was laid beside her husband in beautiful Mount Olivet to await the resurrection. She has left us; but she is not lost, but gone before to be with Christ, whose she was and whom she served. I shall always remember with pleasure my first home in the town of Lebanon with Sister Robinson. She was my friend, faithful and true. The Lord bless her brothers and sisters, and may they meet their sister in a world where sorrow, sickness, and death can never come.

F. B. Srygley.

Gospel Advocate, December 20, 1906, page 814.

Robinson, William W.

William W. Robinson was born on October 23, 1880, and died on September 24, 1928. He obeyed the gospel in 1914. He was united in marriage with Miss Cleo Dawkins on September 18, 1916. To this union was born one daughter, Mary Frances, who, with the loving wife, remains to mourn his death. Our friend and brother had the affection of his family and always wanted to do everything to make them happy. He is sadly missed in the home and community. He underwent an operation for appendicitis, but he had waited too long. His suffering was intense, but he bore it with patience and fortitude. Funeral services were held in his home by the writer. The esteem in which he was held was attested by the concourse of friends who gathered to pay their last tribute of respect. His body was laid to rest in the Memphis Memorial Park.

E. L. Whitaker.

Gospel Advocate, December 13, 1928, page 1193.

Robison, Alice

Alice Robison wife of W. S. Robison, was born on November 6, 1860, and died on January 13, 1919. She was married to W. S. Robison on January 9, 1877. To this union ten children were born, of whom six are still livingone son and five daughters, all members of the one body. Early in life Sister Robison obeyed the gospel, and she strived to live as God directs. After the conversion of her husband she planned and worked for the purchase of a lot and the erection of a house in which the ancient gospel could be preached and God worshiped as taught by the Bible. Out of her faithful work stands a house (Burrus Chapel) and a congregation including all of her children and many friends that were near and dear to her. Very few of the young members know of the labor, prayers, patience, and zeal of this good woman, now gone, in building up the dear old church of God at that place. After rearing six of her own children to be grown, her son lost his wife, leaving him with three small children, the youngest a girl. She took them into her home and patiently, lovingly set about the task of rearing these grandchildren, who have sustained a double loss in her deathtwo mothers gone. Sister Robison was a good wife, a good mother, a good neighbor, and a good Christian. In her death, the loss to her husband, children, grandchildren, the community, and the congregation at Burrus Chapel is great. All keenly and sensibly feel the great loss that her death means to them. While she quietly sleeps in the dark, cold grave, her work follows on and will increase with the coming years, and after a while she can fully enjoy the fruits of all her labor in that sweet home where sad partings come not. We sorrow not, even as the rest, who have no hope, but hope to meet her in that place where Christ has gone to prepare for them that love him. While penning these few lines to her memory the tears well up in my eyes and my heart is touched by her death, and my prayers and sympathy go out to her heartbroken family.

John R. Williams.

Gospel Advocate, March 20, 1919, page 282.

Robison, Birdie

Birdie Robison, beloved wife of James C. Robison, of Lake County, Tenn., was born on July 24, 1885. She was married to James C. Robison on July 21, 1904; and to this union three childrentwo boys and one girlcame to cement the love and earthly and heavenly interest of this young husband and wife. She obeyed the gospel in 1905, the next year after her marriage, and lived a devoted, consecrated life in the service of God till the day of her deathFebruary 26, 1914. Funeral services were conducted at Burris Chapel by Brother John Foster and the writer, in the presence of a large crowd of sorrowing and sympathizing relatives, brethren and sisters, and friends. None can know, only those who have had a similar experience, what sorrow and grief fill the heart of this poor husband and father. The loss of those dear children is irreparablecan never, never be filled. Sister Robison was a good, devoted wife; kind, loving, and firm with her children; a devoted member of the congregation at Burris Chapel; and was loved by all who knew her.

John R. Williams.

Gospel Advocate, May 7, 1914, page 511.

Robison, Harvey Hughon

Brother Harvey Hughon Robison, aged twenty-four years, died at his home, near Macon, Tenn., on Tuesday morning, August 6, 1929, after having patiently suffered for three weeks with typhoid fever, during which time he was carefully nursed by tender and loving hands; but, with the aid of two of the most skilled physicians in the county, they were unable to withhold their loved one from the terrible monster, Death. But we have the comfort of knowing that he departed this life without a fear, and even faced the pangs of death with a contented smile upon his face. The deceased became a member of the church at Macon about two years before his death; and though he, being human, was not perfect, yet he lived in such a manner that when he knew his course on earth was run he was able to say: do not grieve after me; I am going home to Jesus. His departure leaves an empty place in the hearts of a wife, and infant son, a father, two brothers and four sisters, also many other friends and relatives, among whom are the parents and brothers and sisters of his heartbroken little widow, for he was loved by them as a very dear son and brother. He was laid to rest in the quiet little cemetery at Macon. A family circle has been broken, and the father has gone home to his little daughter who preceded him two years. May the sojourn of the wife and little son be in peace while here on earth, and may they all be reunited in the land that knows no sorrow.

Mae Weatherford.

Gospel Advocate, September 12, 1929, page 880.

Robison, Martha

Thursday night, March 10th 87, about 10 oclock, Mrs. Martha Robison was called from earth to the home of the soul.

She had lived to a ripe old age (72 years, 3 months and 18 days) and adorned herself with the many excellent virtues of admiration. To know aunt Martha as she was familiarly known by those who knew her best, was to love her. For some years past she made her home with Mrs. Emily Miller, near Oconee, who was to her a mother and daughter. She possessed a strong mind and a deep and devoted Christian heart. Shortly before her death, realizing the fact that her days were rapidly drawing to a close, she disposed of all her little relics etc. that were not mentioned in her will, in the presence of witnesses as she wished them distributed. While her suffering was great, she was blessed with her bright intellect and presence of mind until her spirit took its flight.

At the age of fourteen her heart was consecrated to the service of the Master, and it seems that the leading thought she wished to develop and leave behind, was her walk with God. There are those who remember soon after the late war, the Oconpee church having gone down, that she was one of the three sisters and a brother (a lay member) who met there week after week in prayer and praise to God, until the surrounding community was enlisted in a religious channel of thought; and furthermore, there are those who remember, after it grew strong in numbers and she was put to the test, whether or not she would submit to the teachings of man, that she had the moral courage to stand in the face of all opposition to the word of truth and say no. Her life is a living monument to perpetuate her memorythough dead, she yet speaketh.

A. B. Herring., Tennille, Ga.

Gospel Advocate, April 27, 1887, page 271.

Robison, W. S.

On January 11, 1938, W. S. (Uncle Bill) Robison, lifelong resident of Lake County, Tenn., quietly passed away at the ripe old age of eighty-two years. His good wife and faithful companion in life preceded him by nineteen years. He was baptized by John R. Williams fifty-two years ago, and was a staunch friend and supporter of Brother Williams in his great pioneer work in Lake and Obion Counties. He was the father of ten children, and there are twenty grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Besides these, two orphan children were reared in his home. He was ever faithful to the church, was a Bible student of no mean ability, and was a reader of the Gospel Advocate for forty or fifty years. Eternity alone will reveal the extent of his influence on earth. The writer had a part in his funeral service, conducted at the church where he worshiped so long, and his body was laid to rest in the churchyard there.

Fred W. Chunn., Henry, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, March 31, 1938, page 311.

Roby, C. K.

A beloved Christian, deacon, husband and father, C. K. Ken Roby, was called home August 17, 1964, after having suffered a fatal accident. Ken was born at Brookhaven, Miss., February 5, 1925. He was married to the former Nadine Young of Bartlesville, Okla. She and three children are left behind. Ken had been a faithful Christian for the past fifteen years. Since 1961 he served the Overland Park church as deacon. By trade he was an electrician but his major vocation was the Lords work. He was constantly about the Fathers business, teaching Bible classes, visiting, and filling the pulpit. He preached for the church at Raytown, Mo., almost a year, as well as Fort Scott, Kans., Pleasant Hill, Mo., and numerous other churches of the Kansas City area. The three hundred who attended the memorial service in Kansas City, the floral offerings and the $1,800 Memorial Fund that was established by brethren and friends, testify of the love and esteem in which he and the family were held. The writer conducted services in Kansas City and Sidney Roper held graveside services in Bartlesville, Okla., where his body shall rest.

W. Don Fike.

Gospel Advocate, September 17, 1964, page 607.

Rochell, Bessie Overbey

On March 28, 1928, friends and loved ones were called upon to pay their last respects to Sister Bessie Overbey Rochell. Bessie was born on April 14, 1898; obeyed the gospel at the age of fifteen years, under the preaching of Brother W. A. Sisco; and was married to Arch Rochell on January 28, 1922. She was an obedient daughter, a faithful wife and mother, a dear sister, and above all, a pure Christian. She leaves to weep, besides her husband and three little children, father, mother, two sisters, one brother, and a host of relatives and friends; but we sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. Bessie was the first one to be taken. The family circle is broken; but if they are faithful to the end, they will be an unbroken family over there. All pictures of earthly happiness are transient in duration. The time will soon come when all must part from those who have surrounded the same parental board. One by one we will all be gathered home. I would say to the sorrowing ones: Dry your tears, and let us all strive to meet Bessie in the land that is fairer than day.

Mrs. W. A. Sisco.

Gospel Advocate, May 10, 1928, page 450.

Rochell, Nathaniel

On May 14, 1911, Mr. Nathaniel Rochells mortal body fell by a paralytic stroke and his spirit returned to God who gave it. On May 15 funeral services were had at his home, conducted by the writer, and he was buried with the honors of the Masonic order. On May 16 he would have been seventy-six years of age. His wedded companion, Mrs. Sarah F. Rochell, whose maiden name was Burnett, a highly respected Christian lady, died on December 19, 1910, aged sixty-six years. The two have left only one child, Cretie, the wife of S. A. Booth, of Maury City, Crockett County, Tenn. Brother Rochell, who also lived at Maury City, lived an honorable citizen, a consistent Christian, and was true to his Masonic obligations. Brother and Sister Rochell have filled their mission on earth and are now gone; we will stand in need of them, but cannot deplore them.

H. C. Booth.

Gospel Advocate, June 8, 1911, page 640.

Rock, Charles W.

Charles W. Rock, a gospel preacher of many years, passed away February 20, 1971 following several weeks illness, at the age of eighty-one. Brother Rock was born in Belmont County, Ohio October 22, 1889, a son of Charles Franklin and Caroline Schnegg Rock. His wife Katherine Hendershot Rock preceded him in death July 14, 1961.

As an evangelist Brother Rock worked regularly with churches of Christ in Bellaire and Ashtabula, Ohio, in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania and in Paden City and Hundred, West Virginia. As a preacher he was satisfied to just preach the word without forming theories or riding hobbies of his own or anyone elses.

He is survived by one daughter Mrs. Charles (Mary) Harrison, wife of a medical doctor in Clarksburg; one sister, Miss Clara Rock of Shadyside, Ohio; one niece and one nephew.

Funeral services were conducted by the writer at Hundred, West Virginia, where he labored the longest, the burial was at Bridgeport Cemetery near Clarksburg.

Paul S. Gray.

Gospel Advocate, March 18, 1971, page 175.

Rockhold, John W.

John W. Rockhold, 90, died April 1, after a lengthy illness. He was born in Meigs County, Ohio, son of the late John W. and Mary Sovel Rockhold.

He had served congregations in West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Alabama and preached many gospel meetings throughout the Ohio valley and northern Ohio area. He baptized hundreds.

The memorial services were conducted by Bill Kughn of Gallipolis, Ohio. Three grandsons, Paul Epler, David Epler and John Rockhold II, who are preachers, assisted. Songs were sung by the children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his children: John W. Rockhold Jr. of Parkersburg, W. Va.; Russell L. Rockhold of Grafton, W. Va.; Bernard E. Rockhold of Dalzell, S. C.; and Juanita Epler, of Williamsburg, Ohio; 22 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

While employed by the American Vicose Company, he assisted in meetings as a song leader. He began filling in as a speaker and became a full-time evangelist in 1947.

Notable efforts include encouraging the brethren in Belpre, Ohio, to have their own congregation, leading the Marion, Ohio, congregation during some of its early struggles, and serving the South Hickory Street church in Chillicothe in its formative years.

He was superintendent of the Romeo, Mich., home for the aged and pioneered teaching of the great needs of senior saints. Long hours and overwork broke the health of his wife, Lora. He resigned and went back into evangelism in West Lafayette, Ohio, but she died soon after.

He later married Luverne Lasseter, who was his faithful companion through the rest of his ministry and his illness. He retired in 1971. Since then he battled with illnesses until he succumbed to cancer.

William E. Epler., Highway 32 Church of Christ, Williamsburg, OH 45176.

Gospel Advocate, May 21, 1987, page 314.

Rockliff, E. G.

On December 24, 1963, it fell my lot to say a few words at the funeral service of E. G. Rockliff, who in this congregation was affectionately known as Uncle Ted. Brother Rockliff was born in Dalton-in-Furness, England, on March 21, 1880. He had his early training in the ministry under Lancelot Oliver in the Birmingham Bible School. He served in the Detroit area for twenty years before coming to St. Marys, W. Va., in 1934. He was a well-known and respected figure here. He chose to be laid to rest by the side of his faithful companion, Aunt Bell. Brother Rockliff will be missed by this congregation and his works accompany him to the judgment.

Denver E. Cooper.

Gospel Advocate, January 23, 1964, page 63.

Rockliff, E. G.

E. G. Rockliff passed away December 21 in Detroit, Mich., at the home of his daughter, Mary Monroe. Brother Rockliff had preached for almost sixty years. He was born in Dalton-in-Furness, England, in 1880 and received his early training for the ministry under Lancelot Oliver in the Birmingham Bible School. He served churches in England and Scotland before coming to the United States for his wifes health in 1914. For twenty years he preached in the Detroit area and did much work in Canada before moving to the Dewey Avenue congregation in St. Marys, W. Va., in 1934. He did an outstanding work with the Dewey Avenue congregation until retiring in January, 1956. He then worked with the church in Newport, Ohio, until the end of 1957 when he retired again and moved back to St. Marys. From that time until just a few weeks before his death, his life and service were a great blessing in the church.

Jesse E. Clayton.

Gospel Advocate, March 12, 1964, page 175.

Rockliff, Isabella A.

Isabella A. Rockliff, wife of Evangelist Edward G. Rockliff, passed away in the St. Joseph Hospital, Parkersburg, W. Va., Wednesday afternoon, August 31, 1949. She was born in England, September 12, 1873. Aged seventy-five years, eleven months, and nineteen days. She was the daughter of John and Ann Newby. She is survived by her husband (Evangelist E. G. Rockliff of St. Marys, W. Va.), one daughter (Mrs. Gene Monroe of Detroit, Mich.), four grandchildren (Mary Jene, Edward Joe, and Grace Ann of Detroit, Mich., and Jack of St. Marys, W. Va.). Sister Rockliff was a lifelong member of the church of Christ and a faithful Christian. She was known to the writer for over fifty years. She was kind and sympathetic and was very helpful to her husband in his evangelistic work. Her smile and kind words and deeds of love won for her a place in the hearts of many. It can be said of her as it was said of Dorcas of old, she was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. Funeral services were held in the Dewey Avenue church of Christ, Friday, September 2. The writer conducted the services, assisted by A. Lindsay of Pontiac, Mich.; Lawrance Gardner of Sistersville, W. Va.; and C. D. Beagle of New Martinsville, W. Va. A group of singers from the church of Christ at Marietta, Ohio, rendered suitable hymns. The high esteem in which Sister Rockliff was held was manifested by the large gathering of friends and beautiful floral tributes. She was laid to rest in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery, St. Marys, W. Va. We commend the sorrowing to the care of a wise and loving heavenly Father.

H. Bennetts.

Gospel Advocate, October 6, 1949, page 639.

Roddy, William B.

William B. Roddy fell asleep on January 30, 1924, at his home, near Tompkinsville, Ky. He would have been ninety years of age this year, having been born on July 17, 1834, and his long life has been one of unusual purity, service, and merited honor. Having served the nation as he saw best during the Civil War, he was later called to State and county offices, always filling them with dignity; but, better still, he gave a noble example of virtuous, Christian manhood to his children and to the community. He was one of Natures gentlemen, one of Kentuckys aristocracy of real worth, one of Gods noblemen; his commanding presence and genteel manners were fitting expressions of his great soul and kind heart. He obeyed the gospel early in life, and comrades have said that Captain Roddy was one of the very few men in the Ninth Kentucky Regiment who consistently manifested faithful, godly lives amid the roughness and temptations of military life. Until a few years ago he attended services regularly. Now we must close in to fill the gap in our ranks, while we will miss the steady shield and unfailing arm of this soldier of the cross. God give us many such comrades in the good warfare as Brother William Roddy.

Harvey W. Riggs.

Gospel Advocate, February 28, 1924, page 213.

Roden, Rebecca Jane Abbott

Rebecca Jane Abbott, was born Feb. 27, 1853, was married to Thos. J. Roden, Dec. 30, 1874, was baptized into Christ in Oct., 1882, died Dec. 20, 1887aged 34 years, 9 months and 29 days. She lived a faithful Christian until summoned to her reward. The departed leaves a husband and two little boysOtis Elmoaged 12 years, and Thos. Lurryaged 8 years.

May her husband take warning at the death of his wife and prepare to meet her where parting will be no more. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. May we as a band of brothers and sisters live faithful and be prepared to meet Sister Roden in the better land.

Lizzie Hayes.

Gospel Advocate, February 29, 1888, page 10.

Rodgers, Bettie Johnson

Died, at Nashville, Tenn., in the Douglas Infirmary, on December 29, 1908, Sister Bettie Johnson Rodgers, wife of F. C. Rodgers, of Leipers Fork. Sister Rodgers was born in 1859; was baptized by J. M. Barnes at the age of sixteen; was married a few years thereafter by F. H. Davis; and died at the date above mentioned. Her life was one of much affliction, but it developed in her those beautiful traits of Christian character, meekness, humility, and freedom from guile. The apostle Paul says: For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Even our blessed Savior, it is said, was made perfect through suffering. But our sister, we trust, has gone out of her suffering into that rest that remaineth to the people of God. 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.

W. J. Moss.

Gospel Advocate, January 14, 1909, page 52.

Rodgers, D. F.

For nearly six years the little band of disciples of Christ at Austin, Tenn., have met without the loss of one of its members until our beloved brother in Christ, D. F. Rodgers, passed from this life March 27, 1893. Bro. Rodgers was born March 15, 1850. Obeyed Christ and was baptized by Eld. W. C. Huffman August, 1870. He was a twin brother of Eld. E. H. Rodgers, who has been preaching in Texas for several years. While his death was a shock to us we must be submissive to the will of our heavenly Father. We have no desire to pass unmerited eulogies on our brother, but he was a true Christian and relied with fullest confidence upon the word of God for direction in the discharge of his duty. It is with feelings of regret and sadness that we unite in paying an humble but earnest tribute of respect to his memory.

Be it therefore resolved, that in brother Rodgers we found an earnest and faithful Christian, and that in his life we have an example of humility and devotion to duty. Although he has passed from us here, the influence of his life will be with us.

Resolved, that we extend our sympathies to the bereaved family, especially to his sorrowing wife and little children: and be it further resolved, that while we lament his death, we should be encouraged and sustained by the promises that are given to all who love God and keep his commandments.

Wm. Baird, E. F. Tucker, G. L. White., Wier, Tenn., April 11, 93.

Gospel Advocate, May 4, 1893, page 284.

Rodman, Orville T.

Orville T. Rodman was born and reared in Indiana. He was baptized at about the age of eighteen and became a member of the Christian Church. He later changed his church relations and put in his lot with the churches of Christ. In 1914 the government sent him to the Philippines, where he taught in the public schools six years. Returning to the United States, he was graduated at Phillips University, Enid, Okla.; taught in a Menonite college one year; later taught three years at Grayson, Ky., and while here his first wife died; attending Harding College one year; went to the Philippines a second time, but now as a missionary of the churches of Christ. He was married to Miss Verlie Garrison in the home of George Benson, in Canton, China, in June, 1934. On account of illness they returned to the States in 1938. During his last year there he accomplished more than all the rest of the time together. Sister Rodman also adds: He never gave up the idea of going back to the islands after the war, and never turned his back on an opportunity to get younger men to go also. He and Sister Rodman were out on errands. She was at a grocery store doing some buying, and he at the office of the school board getting papers for teaching, and there he died suddenly, and it was some hours before they could get the news to her. Sister Rodman and their two children, a girl and a boy, are living with her brother at 38 Alto Loma, Bernicia, Calif. Her friends may reach her at this address. Brother Rodman was a good man and a zealous Christian. It was my privilege to be in their home for one month during their stay in the Philippines, and here I learned to love them.

J. M. McCaleb.

Gospel Advocate, August 17, 1944, page 551.

Roe, Lula

Lula Roe passed away on February 9 at 3:30 P.M., in a hospital near St. Petersburg, Fla. Her funeral service was conducted on February 14 at the Diston Avenue church of Christ in St. Petersburg, by W. A. Cameron, the minister there. He was assisted by the writer, of Hendersonville, N. C. A house full of friends and brethren from both St. Petersburg and Hendersonville, N. C., were present. Burial followed in a beautiful cemetery in St. Petersburg. Sister Roe is survived by her husband, William Roe, and four sons, Donald and Ralph of St. Petersburg; Leslie and Elton, of Largo, Fla.; two daughters, Mrs. Florence Lewis, Largo, Fla.; and Mrs. Bernard Penn, Pensacola, Fla. She was married to Brother Roe in 1912, and had been a resident of Florida for the past thirty-four years, being baptized there by Brother Cameron thirty years ago. Brother and Sister Roe have been residents also of Hendersonville, N. C., for the past several years and were instrumental in establishing the church there. The influence of Sister Roe as a Christian mother and wife will long bear fruit to the honor of God.

James A. Davis.

Gospel Advocate, April 7, 1955, page 276.

Rogers, Addie

Mrs. Addie Rogers, wife of G. L. Rogers, was born on August 25, 1870; was married to G. L. Rogers on January 7, 1903 (her maiden name was Freeman); was baptized into Christ on November 8, 1909; and died on December 25, 1909, with consumption. The writer baptized her in a box of warm water, at her request, on the date above mentioned. She had for some time contemplated obedience to our Saviors demands, and had spoken of it to her friends often. She leaves three little girls, aged six, four, and three years, to the care of their father. We do earnestly pray for him, that he may at no distant day obey the gospel and live the life God demands, and be prepared to meet his loving companion in the land of eternal delight, and also the better prepared to bring up these little girls in the love and fear of God and to meet their mother in the glory land.

J. R. Bradley.

Gospel Advocate, May 5, 1910, page 566.

Rogers, Elizabeth

Sister Elizabeth Rogers departed this life on the 23rd of October after a lingering illness of several months. Sister Rogers was born in Tippah county, Miss., Dec. 12, 1852; united with the church of Christ in 1869, and was married to Bro. Hugh L. Rogers in Dec. 1870, with whom she lived, hightening his joys and sharing his sorrows, as only a true Christian wife can until removed by that fell destroyer of human life, consumption, in the 35th year of her age.

The writer has known sister Rogers from her childhood, when her amiability made her the sunshine of her fathers family. Many the pleasant hours spent in her family wherein her training upon the hearts and minds of her children made up a happy place indeed for the tired preachers home. I doubt not her influence for good will continue to be felt in the congregations of which she was a member in ages yet to come. But that happy home is now a home of deep grief. Eight motherless children, the eldest 16, the youngest one year old, weep over her demise. Her aged father, Bro. Aaron Williams, as he totters toward the sunset of life, weeps over this fresh sorrow. Her brothers and sisters are admonished that though she was the youngest in this life, she is their senior in immortality. The aching heart, the streaming eyes, the scalding, blinding, bitter tears of the bereft husband, all attest her worth, and the great loss sustained in her removal. How she will be missed from her accustomed seat at Damascus, from which she was never absent unless unavoidably detained. But to her family and friends I would offer the consolation the religion of Jesus brings. She has only laid aside mortality to bloom into a blissful immortality of perennial youth where farewells are never spoken and where sorrow never come. Live for Jesus, that in the bright morning of the resurrection you may meet the dear ones whose loss you now deplore, to part no more.

W. A. Crum.

Gospel Advocate, December 7, 1887, page 783.

Rogers, Elizabeth Staton

Sister Elizabeth Staton Rogers, wife of A. W. Rogers, was born on February 18, 1890, and departed this life on April 21, 1919. Her life on earth was comparatively short, but it was a life of consecration and devotion to the church. Sister Rogers was formerly a member of the Methodist Church, but, by studying the Bible for herself and learning the way of life, she was led to obey the gospel. It was never my pleasure to know her in life, but those who did know her testified that she was a devoted Christian. What more could be said of any one? She preached her own funeral sermon by the godly life which she lived. She will be missed in the home and in the church; but God has decreed that this mortal shall put on immortality and this corruption shall put on incorruption before the faithful can dwell in the home prepared. Besides the husband and two little children, she is survived by a brother and sister. The writer endeavored to speak words of comfort to the bereaved. May they ever strive to emulate her worthy example.

J. Leonard Jackson.

Gospel Advocate, September 11, 1919, page 903.

Rogers, Ella

On the evening of June 30, 1913, the death angel visited the home of Brother John Rogers, of Jackson, Tenn., and claimed for its own his beloved wife, Mrs. Ella Rogers. She was fifty-three years of age and had been the lawful companion of Brother Rogers for twenty-three years. I am told that this good woman gave her heart and life to God when only a small girl, and to those who know her it has been clearly demonstrated that she remained steadfast and faithful unto the end. I have known her for about a year, and I state without hesitation that she was one of the best women that it has been my pleasure to know. She lived for her friends, her husband, and her God. She always seemed the same whether in sickness or in health, and was dearly loved by her neighbors and the church. The death of this good woman was a shock, it came so suddenly. She was stricken with apoplexy about 11 A.M., Monday, and was never conscious any more, and the end came at 7:45 P.M. the same day. She leaves a host of relatives and friends and a loving husband to mourn her death. While we will miss heryes, miss herin the home and in the church assembly, let us all realize that we, too, will soon be called upon to meet the same messenger; and while our lives may have been made sad and darkness gathered in the home from whence she departed, where sunshine and happiness were made manifest by her godly life, let us console ourselves with the thought that heavens jewels are made up of these kind of characters. Precious in the sight of Jehovah is the death of his saints.

T. M. Carney.

Gospel Advocate, September 4, 1913, page 860.

Rogers, Eliza Allen

Eliza (Allen) Rogers was born on August 5, 1863, near Livingston, Tenn., and departed this life on October 1, 1930. She became a Christian in her early teens. She was a devoted mother and wife. Her life in the community in which she lived was an open book. She was ever ready and willing to do her Masters will, ministering unto the sick and needy with loving hands. She leaves to mourn her departure a husband (G. D. Rogers), seven children, eleven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by Brother W. M. Oakley, a friend of the family. Her remains were laid to rest in the Allen family cemetery at Flat Creek, Tenn. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. God knows best, so we must submit to his will.

One Who Loved Her.

Gospel Advocate, April 2, 1931, page 407.

Rogers, J. C.

Death has again visited our little flock, this time taking from among us J. C. Rogers, a pioneer brother. This leaves us with but one brother who passed through the fearful trials of the early history of the church here, when it tried the souls of men to come out of sectarianism. Brother Rogers passed off the stage of life on June 25, 1906, after having lived out his fourscore and five years with men, and after having walked with God for fifty-three years. He was the father of ten children, all members of the church, his good wife and four of the children having preceded him to the sleep in Jesus. His love for Gods word, the church, and the Lords-day meeting was far superior to that of most Christians. Neither rain, cold, nor heat kept him away from the regular worship as long as he was able to walk, and then his desire was for the church to meet at his home. In his death the family has lost a God-fearing father; the neighborhood, a God-fearing neighbor; and the church, a God-fearing brother.

Gospel Advocate, June 26, 1906, page 476.

Rogers, Jennie

Another soldier of the cross has fallensister Jennie Rogers, wife of J. S. Rogers, Adamsville, Tenn. She closed her eyes and breathed her last on the twentieth, inst. She was in her twenty-fifth year; and had been a member of the Church of Christ for more than eight years. She was a dutiful child, an affectionate sister, a devoted mother, a kind wife and a faithful Christian. So far as I know, there was not a cloud intervening between her and the Home of the Blessed.

Thank the Lord for the Christians hope, for the sweet assurance of an eternal rest within the golden city.

R. P. Meeks., West Point, Miss., June 26, 1888.

Gospel Advocate, July 11, 1888, page 11.

Rogers, Jesse A.

Brother Jesse A. Rogers, of Kelso, Tenn., Route No. 3, passed from earth to his long resting place on September 2, 1913. He was fifty-six years and one day old. The writer of this sketch has been intimately acquainted with him and closely associated with him, in private and in public life, in his home and in church work and worship, and I am sure that I have never known a better and a more sincere, consecrated follower of Christ. In his efforts to have the gospel preached to his neighbors, he has, in years gone by and of recent years, sacrificed much of his hard-earned means and labor. Tent meetings have been held near him, and largely at his own expense. In the erection of our new house of worship there (now called State Line), Brother Rogers did more than any two others. The cause there would long since have gone down had it not been for the energy and untiring zeal of Brother Rogers. The writer, with others, has held some fine meetings in his community. Brother A. H. Rozar baptized about twenty-six there immediately after Brother Rogers death. Brother Rozar and the writer both attended the funeral and spoke words of comfort in the service. May our Father bless his afflicted wife and sorrowing children and relatives.

J. R. Bradley.

Gospel Advocate, January 1, 1914, page 30.

Rogers, John V.

On August 18, 1927, Brother John V. Rogers passed away at his home about six miles east of Lynnville, Tenn. He was fifty-five years of age. He left to mourn is departure a faithful companion, an aged father, several brothers, other relatives, and many friends. Brother Rogers death is keenly felt in the home, in the neighborhood in which he lived, and in the Robinsons Fork congregation of the church of Christ, of which he was a member. He was a good husband, a highly respected citizen, and a faithful and untiring worker in the church. He was a man of sterling worth, the kind that helps to build up and make the home, the community, and the church better. He was willing to become servant of all. He neither scorned the work of janitor at the church house nor refused to teach a Bible class or edify the brethren on Lords-day morning. He was earnest, faithful, and conscientious in whatever task he preformed. Rev. 14:13 was used as a text in offering comfort to those left behind, for we truly believe that Brother Rogers is in the Lord. We sorrow, but not as those who have no hope. Funeral services were conducted by the writer in the Lynnville cemetery, where the body was laid to rest.

Maurice Clymore.

Gospel Advocate, March 22, 1928, page 285.

Rogers, Kate C.

Died at her home in Hartsell, Morgan county, Ala., Oct. 21, 1891, sister Kate C. Rogers, aged 33 years. During the days preceding her death, when she lay waiting her summons, and in the long nights of agony, the stillness broken only by her groans, we who were with her learned how strong was her faith, how unbroken her trust in her Redeemer. Sister Rogers was an earnest Christian and a zealous worker in the church of Christ, of which she was a member for twelve years. We do not wish her back again, for we know where she is there is no sorrow, pain, or weeping, and of all these she had her share. But oh, we miss her, we miss the constant care, the loving presence. There is no wife to console the lonely husband that was always so kind; there is no mother here now to console the little sons and daughters. Her funeral service was conducted by Bro. W. H. Windes, in the Christian church, after which her remains were deposed in the Hartsell cemetery.

James W. Jaggars, Sr., Hartsell, Ala., Oct. 28, 01.

Gospel Advocate, November 12, 1891, page 715.

Rogers, Laura Edna

Laura Edna Rogers, beloved companion of W. W. Rogers, 1700 Washington Street, Commerce, Texas, departed this life for the better land at the Rogers home in Commerce, January 27, 1950. Early in life Sister Rogers gave her life to the Lord. Brother Rogers has been an elder in the Commerce Church for about thirty years. Sister Rogers, because she never lost an opportunity to point her friends to the way of the cross, was a great help to Brother Rogers and all the church. Although Sister Rogers was in ill-health for many years, her mental alertness never weakened until the final hours of her stay here. The church at Commerce has lost a wonderful saint, and Brother Rogers has lost a great and adorable companion. She is survived by her husband, one son, D. C. Rogers, Dallas; one granddaughter; and one brother, W. T. Kuykendall, Sulphur Springs, Texas. The funeral was at the church building in Commerce by the writer on January 28. Others taking part in the service included: Byrne A. Shofner, W. W. Freeman, and D. D. Smith.

Willis G. Jernigan.

Gospel Advocate, March 2, 1950, page 143.

Rogers, Lena Woodlee

Lena Woodlee Rogers passed away early on the morning of February 15 stricken suddenly while visiting a daughter in Murfreesboro, Tenn., she died before reaching the hospital. Almost two years earlier, her husband, Rece H. Rogers, a faithful gospel preacher, had been taken in a similar manner. Since that time, she had made her home first in Murfreesboro and then in Nashville. Shocked by the sudden and altogether unexpected death of her husband, Sister Rogers had nevertheless adjusted herself to her loss and at the time of her passing was not only leading a busy and fruitful life but was looking forward eagerly to the future as well. Sister Rogers was born December 28, 1888, in Warren County, Tenn., to A. H. and Metta Burger Woodlee. Her walk with the Lord began early in life. As a young woman she wrote the words for a number of gospel songs, over fifty of which are included in a book entitled Jesus in Song, published in 1915 by S. H. and Flavil Hall. In May, 1917, S. P. Pittman said the ceremony that united her and Rece H. Rogers in marriage. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. J. B. Barnes of Murfreesboro, and Mrs. Charles Chumley of Nashville; four grandchildren; and a half-sister, Mrs. Hallie Boykin, of San Angelo, Texas. Funeral services were conducted from High Funeral Home in McMinnville, Tenn., by A. J. Rollings and John High. She was laid to rest by the side of her husband in the little church cemetery at Armstrong, near Irving College.

Charles Chumley.

Gospel Advocate, April 10, 1958, page 239.

Rogers, Lucinda

On Feb. 11 Sister Lucinda Rogers, wife of Brother V. A. Rogers, who lives some six miles from Fayetteville, passed from earthly scenes to experience the realities of the unseen. Afflicted with a supposed cancer, her suffering was long and dreadful; but she endured it with a Christian fortitude that becomes those professing godliness. Her husband, three children, mother, brothers, and sisters are left to mourn their loss. She was thirty-eight years old, and had been a devoted member of the church of Christ for about twenty years. May the comforting words of inspiration, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, encourage and strengthen the husband and family in this trying affliction.

John T. Hinds., Fayetteville, Ark.

Gospel Advocate, April 15, 1897, page 231.

Rogers, Murrell Floyd

Murrell Floyd Rogers, 1907-1968, deacon and treasurer of Main and Oak church, Jonesboro, Arkansas, died suddenly of a heart attack, September 12. Funeral services were conducted at Main and Oak September 14, with the writer officiating. Burial was in Jonesboro Memorial Park. A simple, humble life had come to an end. As a deacon, a willing servant and a treasurer, most efficient. He is survived by his wife, the former Juanita Tillman of Muskogee, Okla., to whom he was married on October 13, 1929. He is also survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Jan, of Fremont, Calif.; his father, C. F. Rogers of Louisville, Ky., his sister, Mrs. Dorothy Lincoln of Louisville, and two grandchildren.

Brother Rogers was the son of the late Gladys Hamlin and Charles Floyd Rogers of Mt. Pleasant, Texas. He was Chief Accountant for the Jonesboro office of the Crane Company, for whom he had worked since 1926, and in Jonesboro since 1960. With his work with Crane Company he was transferred several times, but each time used his bookkeeping ability in the church when his services were needed. Prior to his service in Main and Oak church, he served as treasurer for East Side church in Tulsa and Riverside church in Wichita, Kan. He was converted from the Christian Church in September 1926 and lived a faithful life in the church for forty years. Know ye not that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel? (2 Sam. 3:38.)

Elbert M. Young.

Gospel Advocate, January 16, 1969, page 47.

Rogers, Rece H.

Rece H. Rogers, sixty-three, a preacher of the gospel, passed away suddenly February 18, 1956, at his home in Altamont, Tenn. He had moved to Altamont three months before and was working with the church there and helping other congregations in the area. He had preached on the Lords day and taught two Bible classes during the week before he died early Saturday morning. Without warning death came as a result of a heart attack while he stood talking with two men who were inspecting one of his farm outbuildings which had been damaged by high winds. Brother Rogers was born January 29, 1893, at McMinnville, Tenn., the son of Greek and Maggie Rogers. He was a product of Christian education. He attended Potter Bible College, Bowling Green, Ky.; the Nashville Bible School, Nashville, Tenn.; and Abilene Christian College, Abilene, Texas. His work as a gospel preacher, in located work and in meetings, led him into Texas, Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. A capable song leader, he led singing in numerous meetings through the years. In May, 1917, S. P. Pittman said the ceremony which united him and Miss Lena Burger Woodlee in marriage. She and their two daughters, Mrs. J. B. Barnes, of Murfreesboro, Tenn. and Mrs. Charles Chumley, of Nashville, survive. Funeral services were conducted from the High Funeral Home in McMinnville, Tenn., with A. J. Rollings, S. P. Pittman, and John W. High officiating. Seven young people from Athens Bible School, Athens, Ala., sang. He was buried in Armstrong Cemetery near McMinnville. Brother Rogers was an energetic and tireless worker. A man who made friends easily, he was always concerned about helping others who were sick or in need of aid. Many tell of his eagerness to assist people, even endangering his own life on more than one occasion to get help for others. His family ties were particularly strong, and he was seldom happier than when surrounded by his two daughters and their families. This writer has never known the more or less conventional father-in-law, son-in-law relationship. My relation with Brother Rogers has been that of a close friend and brother. A host of friends and loved ones mourn his passing. But sadness is tempered by hope as the benediction of his life continues to influence those of us who have known and loved him here. The passing of such men adds meaning to Gods promise of life with him throughout eternity.

Charles Chumley.

Gospel Advocate, March 22, 1956, page 286.

Rogers, Richard O.

Richard O. Rogers, instructor at Sunset International Bible Institute for more than 30 years, died July 22. He was 63.

Rogers was a gospel preacher and teacher for 42 years. He had spoken at Christian college and university lectureships on numerous occasions and had preached in more than 40 states and 30 countries.

He led seminars for church growth and spiritual leadership and was involved in the planting of churches in California, Mexico and Thailand.

Rogers spoke annually at the Sunset World Evangelism Forum and at Red River Family Encampment. He authored more than 20 books, teaching workbooks, videos, audio tapes and Bible study materials.

He was an alumnus of Florida Christian College and Abilene Christian University.

At the time of his death, Rogers was the minister for the Jayton Church of Christ in Jayton, Texas. He had also served as pulpit minister for congregations in Blue Ridge, Azle, Midland and Lubbock, Texas.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; a sister, Lil Powers; a brother, Eddie; four children, Byron, Keith and Kris Rogers, and Rhonda Crawford; and eight grandchildren. (Picture included)

Lubbock, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, September, 2000, page 41.

Rogers, Ross

Ross Rogers, elder, gospel preacher, and faithful teacher of the word, died on the Lords day, May 27, 1979, at the age of 62. He and his wife had attended Bible study and worship at Southaven, Mississippi, and had gone out to eat on their way home. Brother Rogers was stricken at the restaurant and rushed to the hospital, where it was learned that he had suffered a fatal heart attack. The church was his life. He taught a mens Bible class each Thursday night, and men from this class served as pallbearers at his funeral. He had served at one time as the preacher for the Southaven church, and later as an elder. He will be sorely missed. He is survived by his wife, Betty, and by two sons and two daughters. Services were conducted at the Southaven church building by the writer, and his body was laid to rest at Memorial Park in Memphis.

Alan E. Highers.

Gospel Advocate, June 28, 1979, page 413.

Rogers, Sallie

Sister Sallie Rogers departed this life Jan. 9, 1894. Her maiden name was Spearman. She was born March 19, 1866. The second Sunday in May, 1876, she was baptized into Christ by Brother E. H. Rogers, to whom she was united in marriage by the writer, Feb. 26, 1888. For this reason, perhaps, and being a warm and constant friend to Brother Rogers, I was called upon to perform the sad part of holding funeral services. Sister Rogers was an exemplary Christian. Being reared in the lap of Christianity, she lovingly and cheerfully united her destiny with Brother Rogers to share the toils and sacrifices incidental to preachers and their wives. In addition to her domestic labors, she aided him much in reading the scriptures and arranging many of his sermons, to which so many have listened with much profit and delight. She leaves her aged parents and several brothers and sisters and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her death. Brother Rogers is one of Gods noblemen who numbers his friends and admirers by the thousand. Be assured, dear brother, many a heart will feel sad to hear of your great loss, and sympathize with you in the care of your little ones.

W. G. Reynolds.

Gospel Advocate, February 8, 1894, page 87.

Rogers, Sarah

On the evening of September 26, 1897, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Sion H. Williams, in Wilsonville, Obion County, Tenn., Sister Sarah Rogers fell asleep in Jesus. She was born October 29, 1838. She confessed her faith in Christ and was buried with him in baptism by Brother Shelton either in 1881 or 1882. From that time till the day of her death she lived the life of a Christian. She made her home principally with her children in Middle Tennessee, but she spent some time with her daughter here. She was loved by all who knew her. She loved the Lord, she loved his word, she loved his worship, and she loved his children. Her life work personally is done; but, while she rests from her labors, her work and Christian influence are going on, and will continue till the fevered dream of life is ended, and we all stand before God to be judged. Happy thought, that we can be ready when the death angel comes! To the friends and relatives of Sister Rogers: Let us imitate her Christian virtues in life; let us love and serve the same Lord she did; and after awhile death will be no more, and we can meet her and all the loved ones gone before. Blessed thought, sweet consolation: A rest remains to the people of God! Let us all labor to enter into that rest.

John R. Williams., Hornbeak, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, December 30, 1897, page 829.

Rogers, Walter A.

Brother Walter A. Rogers, of Dickson, Tenn., was born on August 23, 1873; was born again in October, 1892, under the preaching of Brother J. W. Grant, while in a meeting at Charlotte; and died at his mothers on February 23, 1916, at 8 P.M. He suffered very much in his sickness. He was well cared for by kindred and kind neighbors. His stepfather, T. F. Nicks, who is a Christian preacher, had the Lords Supper in his home while he was confined to his bed. Weep not, dear mother, father, brothers, and friends; our loss is his eternal gain. Brother Rogers was not a married man and was very devoted to his dear, Christian mother.

Jarratt L. Smith.

Gospel Advocate, May 11, 1916, page 484.

Rogers, Will

In the death of Will Rogers America has lost its most influential citizen and one of the greatest Americans of all time. It would have been a demotion for Rogers to have been elected President. He was above Presidents and kingsthe friendly critic of all men in high positions. Just as his humorous monologue quickly eclipsed the roping act with which he began his career as an entertainer, speaking to millions of readers daily through the newspapers, his philosophy came to be recognized as his outstanding contribution.

The fact that he could go on for years making the world laugh, without repeating himself, was remarkable enough; but the ability to tell the world the truth about itself without losing his audience was more remarkable! To do that he must have been fundamentally honest and fair. He had a broad understanding and appreciation of people, and the weight of his influence was heavily upon the side of right, peace, and common sense.

The loss cannot be estimated. The world laughed with him, but few realized how much they were influenced by him. He could, for instance, do more to prevent a revolution by kidding the American people out of the idea than several Presidents could accomplish by more direct methods.

All men have lost a friend; the world has lost its most distinguished ambassador of good will and good cheer.

Gospel Advocate, August 22, 1935, page 808.

Rogers, Zaida Chambers

Mrs. Zaida Chambers Rogers, daughter of the late James K. Chambers and Mary Elizabeth Varnell, died of a heart attack, at 3:15 A.M., October 18, 1950, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Irene Stewart, Route 1, Madison, Ala. (Greenbrier community). She is survived by her husband (Louis F. Rogers, Route 1, Madison, Ala.), one son (Luther F. Rogers, Lolita, Texas), four daughters (Mrs. Alma Gillette, Dallas, Texas; Mrs. Edith Meadows, Panama City Beach, Fla.; Mrs. Irene Stewart, Route 1, Madison, Ala.; Miss Nell Rogers, Route 1, Madison Ala), twelve grandchildren, ad fourteen great-grandchildren. Her youngest son (James) was killed by lightning in 1940. Mrs. Rogers was born May 1, 1881, near Athens, Ala. She has been a member of the church since her early teens. In 1931 she moved to Hamilton, Miss., where her husband bought a farm. In 1947 she and her husband moved back to Alabama. If she had lived until November 15, she would have celebrated her fifty-first wedding anniversary. Funeral services were conducted by L. H. Andrews, assisted by A. J. Rollings, at McConnells Funeral Home, Athens, Ala. Burial was in the Athens City Cemetery.

Nell Rogers.

Gospel Advocate, January 11, 1951, page 30.

Roland, Clifford Paul

Clifford Paul Roland departed this life Dec. 11, 1985. He had resided with one of his sons, H. C., in Knoxville, Tenn., after the death of his wife, Grace, in November 1984.

He was born to Isaac Newton and Mary Margaret Roland July 4, 1893, at Essary Springs, Tenn. He is survived by a daughter, Josephine Riddick; four sons, Charles, Paul, H. C. (Mack) and Ike; 19 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Lee J.

Funeral services were conducted at the Henderson, Tenn., Church of Christ Dec. 14 and burial was in the Henderson Cemetery. Participating in the service were Kelley B. Doyle, Fred Brigance, John M. Hall, Max Patterson and E. Claude Gardner.

Roland lived a full, happy and successful life. For about 80 years he was a Christian and served as a valiant soldier of the Cross. He serves as an example as a father, husband, teacher, administrator, scholar, elder and gospel preacher.

Since 1940 he served as an elder in the Henderson church. For more than 60 years he preached the gospel, established congregations, baptized hundreds, and conducted many funeral and weddings.

He moved to Henderson in 1921 to teach at Freed-Hardeman College. He had a desire to see that his children receive a Christian education and all five children graduated from Freed-Hardeman. When he began at the college, he taught physics and chemistry. He later taught mathematics, history and Bible, also.

Although he had opportunities to go elsewhere he remained to help build and stabilize Freed-Hardeman for more than six decades. He served the college longer than has any other person. He held key administrative positionsdean of the college; business manager; student recruiter; vice president; curator; and vice president emeritus.

His greatest contribution in life apart from his family was probably his dedicated service to the Lord in Christian education at Freed-Hardeman College. During the depression he sacrificed tremendously while laboring at the college with little or no money for himself and his family.

On May 3, 1980, the board of trustees of Freed-Hardeman College conferred the doctorate of laws upon Brother Roland as a special tribute to him for his extraordinary service to the college and to the cause of Christ.

The C. P. and Grace Roland Scholarship Fund has been established at Freed-Hardeman College. Memorial gifts from their friends can be added to this fund to help young people and to perpetuate the work to which they gave most of their years. Gifts may be sent to: Freed-Hardeman College, Roland Scholarship Fund, Henderson, TN 38340.

E. Claude Gardner., President, Freed-Hardeman College, Henderson, TN 38340.

Gospel Advocate, March 6, 1986, page 156.

Roland, Grace Paysinger

Mrs. Grace Paysinger Roland, wife of C.P. Roland, passed away Nov. 23. E. Claude Gardner, Max Patterson, and John M. Hall conducted the funeral service Nov. 25. She is survived by her husband; her children Charles Roland, Paul Roland, Mrs. Josephine Reddick, H. C. Roland and Ike Roland. She is also survived by 19 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and two sisters; Mrs. Lillie Isom and Mrs. Mattie Derryberry.

She was born in McNairy County, Tenn., Aug. 17, 1896, to the late Burton W. and Josie Paysinger.

She was married to C. P. in 1916 and they celebrated their Golden Anniversary in 1966 and their Diamond Anniversary in 1976.

For a number of years, she served as a secretary at Freed-Hardeman College working for her husband. She, also, was a co-worker with C. P. in organizing the Historical Room at the college.

1981, sister Roland published Walking Down Memorys Lane which gives much history of the Roland family and Freed-Hardeman College. They rendered faithful and dedicated service to the college beginning in 1921 and continuing for over 60 years.

Sister Roland enjoyed a fulfilled life. She attained a sense of fulfillment because of the influence she had with her children in a Christian home and for the support of her husband as an elder, preacher and Christian educator and for her faithful support of Christian education at Freed-Hardeman College.

She was baptized at the age of 12 in the Hatchie River near Pocahontas, Tenn. After the baptism, C. P., then 15 years old, took her in a buggy to a friends house for her to change clothes. She served in the Lords church for over three-quarters of a century.

C. P. is, at this time, residing with one of his sons, H. C. Roland, 9608 Briarwood Blvd., Knoxville, TN 37919. He is now 91 years of age. Please pray for him and write him a letter of encouragement.

E. Claude Gardner., President, Freed-Hardeman College, Henderson, TN 38340.

Gospel Advocate, December 20, 1984, page 760.

Roland, Mrs. I. N.

Mrs. I. N. Roland was buried Saturday, September 24, 1960. She lived to the ripe old age of over ninety. She lived an exemplary life as a devoted, earnest, intelligent, Christian with an influence that touched so many of the lives of preachers from the days of her marriage to I. N. Roland in 1892. As long as she was able, she attended to her Christian duties with an unfaltering devotion. She never missed the services of the church when she was able to go. I was asked to preach the funeral sermon, and I pictured as best I could the fulfillment of the promise Paul gave us in 1 Cor. 15: This mortal must put on immortality. But when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written. Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy victory? O death, where is thy sting? It is such a grand thought to know by faith that the day will come when death will no longer have any sway and its sting will be forever obliterated.

I read before the large crowd of friends who gathered at the funeral here in Henderson the following paper written by C. P. Roland, her son, who is now the vice-president of Freed-Hardeman College:

Mrs. I. N. Roland was born in 1870 in North Mississippi, near Essary Springs, Tenn. She was the daughter of Henry Nelms and Josie Perkins Nelms. The Nelms families were plantation owners who had lived in the area many years prior to the Civil War.

She attended the first school in 1889 taught at Essary Springs by A. G. Freed, who later helped found Freed-Hardeman College. She was of a literary turn of mind and became a teacher. She taught in the public schools of Hardeman County and also in the grade department at Freeds school at Essary Springs called Southern Tennessee Normal School.

Brother Freed performed the marriage ceremony for her and I. N. Roland at Essary Springs in April, 1892. Three children were born to them: C. P. Roland of Henderson, Lee J. Roland of Pocahontas, Tenn., and Henry I. Roland, deceased. She is survived by her two sons, eight grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.

In her late teens she was baptized by Mat Northcross, a pioneer preacher of the North Mississippi area. He was a distant relative of the Nelms family, and being orphaned as a child, was reared by her father.

She also was very much interested in the church. Her home was where most of the gospel preachers stayed during meetings and lectureships at Essary Springs. Gus Dunn, Sr., J. D. Tant, J. W. Dunn, P. G. Wright, T. M. Carney, N. B. Hardeman, and E. C. L. Denton were among the number.

Although she attained the age of ninety on August 11, last, she was a daily reader of the Bible and her daily paper, the Commercial Appeal. Each week she read the Gospel Advocate for over a half century. She kept well informed on all current issues and would enter into discussion of such readily. She remained firm in her faith until her death. It is a most unusual happening that the service for her today is in the home built and occupied by Brother and Sister Freed and that her body will be laid away in part of the burial lot originally belonging to Brother FreedA tribute by her son, C. P. Roland.

Robert Witt read Solomons description of a worthy woman in Proverbs. Kelly Doyle, with a part of the college chorus, rendered three lovely appropriate songs, one of which was Where Well Never Grow Old. We laid her to rest in the cemetery here in Henderson to await that final summons to come into her eternal rest.

W. C. Hall.

Gospel Advocate, October 13, 1960, page 655.

Roller, C. C.

Brother C. C. Roller departed this life Aug. 3, 1896, in the seventy-fifth year of his age. He formerly lived in Tennessee, where he obeyed the gospel about eighteen years ago, under the preaching of Brother David A. Mills. From Tennessee he moved to Texas, in 1883, and settled in Bell County, where he has since lived and died a consistent Christian of Christs church, trusting in the Lord. Brother Roller was also well and favorably known by the world about him as an honest man. He came to Texas a poor man, but by economy and industry as a farmer had managed to have a competency of this worlds goods, leaving a nice little estate to his children; but, above all, he has left them the legacy of a good name. Brother Rollers health had been bad for several years. His physician said one of his lungs was considerably wasted. He suffered very much toward the last, but bore it all with Christian patience. He loved his home and family very dearly, and they loved him. He died at home, in the midst of his children, and had every attention that devotion could give. Let it be our Christian faith and hope that we shall meet in heaven. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.

J. L. Hutchison.

Gospel Advocate, September 17, 1896, page 605.

Rollings, Adolphus Jackson

Adolphus Jackson Rollings, 77, of Athens, Ala., died Sept. 25, 1987. Born in East Tennessee, he moved to Limestone County, Ala., in 1937. He has been associated with the Market Street Church of Christ for 50 years, 40 of which he was a minister and several of which he was an elder.

He is survived by his wife, Alene, and several children and grandchildren.

He taught English literature classes and Bible at Athens Bible School.

Gospel Advocate, January, 1988, page 52.

Rollings, John W.

John W. Rollings was born in Rutherford Co., Tenn., Oct. 14, 1815, died at his home in Jackson Co., Tenn., Aug. 26, 1886, full of faith and hope. He had a severe attack of paralysis in May 85, from which he never entirely recovered. Though tottering with age and disease he was always in his place with the church on Lords day. He strayed somewhat from duty in his younger days, but a more faithful Christian I never knew after his return to his Fathers house. He leaves his second wife a member of the church of God, and some children by his first wife (with whom I am not acquainted,) and a host of friends to mourn their loss. To those left behind I would say, labor on to meet him where parting is no more.

W. T., Granville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, January 26, 1887, page 62.

Rollins, Cora Jane

Sister Cora Jane Rollins, daughter of James and Matilda Oakley, was born on January 24, 1892, and died on February 26, 1917, at her home, at Miles, Texas. Sister Rollins had been afflicted with the dread disease, tuberculosis, for four years. She came to San Angelo over a year ago, hoping to regain her health, but all efforts in this direction proved futile. She went back to Miles about three months ago to her two little children and her parents. She remained with them until the hour of death. Sister Rollins became a member of the church at the age of twelve. She lived a faithful, consecrated, Christian life. She certainly had her share of suffering in this life, but in the midst of human woe she called upon her Savior for help and comfort. God saw that she was weary of life and called her to rest. O, how sweet is the rest that remaineth for the children of God! Sister Rollins was a pilgrim and sojourner in this world and looked for a city whose builder and maker is God. We firmly believe that she sleeps the sleep of the righteous. We cannot weep bitter tears, for our sister is in the care of a loving Savior. Her remains were laid away in the Miles cemetery to await the judgment morning. The writer spoke words of comfort at the grave.

Jewell Matthews.

Gospel Advocate, April 19, 1917, page 399.

Rollins, Nancy Marinda

Sister Nancy Marinda Rollins died at her home, near Cookeville, Tenn., on January 18, 1907. She was a daughter of Jeremiah and Rebekah Taylor, of Millersburg, Rutherford County, Tenn. She was born on October 14, 1828; obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Brother Trott in youth; and was married to Brother John Rollins of August, 1874, both having lived faithful Christian until death. Sister Rollins survived her husband a number of years. She leaves two brothers and two sisters to mourn their loss. Her two sisters were living with her when she died. She was a regular attendant at the Lords-day worship so long as she was able; and when confined to her bed, she never grew tired of teaching and admonishing all who visited her to be strong in the faith. Her last week on earth was spent seemingly in a state of unconsciousness. A short time before her death, Brother Farmer, of Texas, while holding a meeting at Smyrna, visited her, and at her request we had a song service, reading of the Scriptures, and prayer, which she greatly enjoyed. Little did we then think her pilgrimage on earth was so nearly ended. To the bereaved ones we would say: Weep not as those who have no hope, but rather let her Christian example strengthen and encourage us to be faithful until death.

(Mrs.) Gertrude Kuykendall.

Gospel Advocate, April 11, 1907, page 239.

Rolls, John M.

Brother John M. Rolls was born in Texas sixty-nine years ago, and twenty-four years ago he obeyed the gospel of Jesus Christ, since which time he was one of the most consistent and consecrated Christians it has been my lot to know. Though I have known him only a short while, I knew him to be a man I could depend onquiet, unassuming, patient with all men, never failing to be present at the worship of God. But on Saturday night, January 18, 1919, the angel of death visited and called him away from labor to rest. The writer spoke such words as would point the living to the home beyond. We will miss him so much from the work here. He leaves a faithful wife, one son, two brothers, and if other kin I do not know; but I do know that no man in this country ever left a more devoted and numerous host of friends.

Tice Elkins.

Gospel Advocate, February 13, 1919, page 164.

Rolston, Bettie

The subject of this sketch died Oct. 27, 1895. With a sad heart I take my pencil in hand to tell you of the death of our dear sister in Christ, Bettie Rolston. She was the wife of our highly esteemed Brother B. Rolson, who is well known by all true gospel preachers that visit Mount Pleasant. Brother Rolston is an elder in the church at this place, and Sister Rolston was a scriptural model for an elders wife. And in this death five dear children are left motherless, the church is robbed of a precious jewel, and Brother Rolston of a dear companion. Sister Rolston was born in Alabama in 1860, came to Texas in the winter of 1872, and was married to B. Rolson in 1881. She became a Christian about twelve years ago. She had been sick about ten days when the death angel came and called her to come up higher where Christ and all the redeemed of the Lord shall forever dwell in the presence of a loving God, who wipeth away all tears from our eyes, and where sickness and death come never more.

T. W. Phillips.

Gospel Advocate, November 28, 1895, page 765.

Romine, A. B.

Our beloved brother, A. B. Romine, who suffered much from cancer, has gone home. He had cancer on the thigh, which was scattered by radium at a Nashville hospital. He thought he was doing fine, when he discovered that he had cancer of the stomach. He again went to Nashville, but to no avail. He suffered patiently for a few months, and passed away on January 18, 1925. He leaves a widow and four children, three of whom were at his bedside when the end came: Brother Ross Romine, of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; Brother George Romine, of Birmingham, Ala.; and Sister Emma Nunally, of Sheffield, Ala. Sister James Powers, of California, under existing circumstances, could not visit her father in his illness, which was a source of regret to him. He was born on August 17, 1864. On July 18, 1893, he became a member of the church of Christ. During the time that I had known him he was very prompt in attendance at the worship. The writer spoke words of comfort to a large gathering of sorrowing friends. May Heaven bless Sister Romine and her children.

W. M. Behel.

Gospel Advocate, July 23, 1925, page 712.

Romine, Martha Tanner

On June 17, 1921, the angel of death, unannounced and unexpected, visited the home of Brother S. F. Romine, at Henderson, Tenn., and gently called from him his beloved wife. Sister Romine, formerly Miss Martha Tanner, was born in McNairy County, Tenn., near Stantonville, on July 5, 1866. Here she spent her early days, and was married to Brother Romine at the age of twenty. She became a member of the church in 1896, being baptized by Brother T. A. Smith. She was among the finest of women, and was ever faithful, loyal, and true to her husband, to her friends, and to Him whom she delighted to worship and serve. A number of friends accompanied the remains from Henderson to old Clear Creek Church, the home of her childhood, and, in the presence of a host of old acquaintances and brethren, the writer conducted a funeral service, after which her body was tenderly committed to the kindly bosom of mother earth to await the coming of the Lord. Her husband, a faithful Christian, and her only child, a son, are left to bear the impress of her pure life the remnant of their days.

N. B. Hardeman.

Gospel Advocate, September 1, 1921, page 853.

Romine, Sarah Elizabeth

Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth Romine, one of the oldest and most respected women of Crestview, Tenn., died, at her home, on January 21, 1927. She was more than eighty-three years of age at the time of her death. She lived at Crestview more than forty years. She was a faithful member and an active worker in the church of Christ. She had a class of children that she taught in the Sunday school as long as they lived. She was loved by all the good people, for to know her was to love her. She was an ornament in the church, as well as in the home. A mother in Israel has fallen, and her place will be hard to fill. She loved the word of God, and taught it both by precept and example. She leaves one daughter, Mrs. Effie Martin, and five grandchildren. Sister Romine was a great help to her daughter in bringing up her children. The funeral was conducted by the writer in the church where she loved so much to go. Many friends and loved ones were there to show their love for the sainted mother and sympathy for the bereaved ones. Her children took her body back to the old home at Lexington, Ky., for burial beside her husband and son, who died many years ago. Surely such a woman will enjoy that sweet rest that remains for the people of God.

T. C. King.

Gospel Advocate, August 11, 1927, page 761.

Rone, Carrie Virginia

Miss Carrie Virginia Smithson was born on July 14, 1849; obeyed the gospel in her fourteenth year, under the preaching of Brother Frank Davis, at old Licera; was married to Henry A. Rone on March 7, 1872; and died on July 10, 1918. To this union were born two daughtersGarther Patterson, of Nashville, Tenn., and M. B. Ring, of Chapel Hill. She leaves a heartbroken husband, two daughters, grandchildren, and many friends to mourn her loss. We cannot bring her back, but by following Jesus faithfully we can go to her, where sadness, sorrow, and death never come, but all is peace, joy, and happiness. What a blessed thought this is to us all! Then let us not grieve as those who have no hope. Let us be submissive to the Lords will, knowing that he does all things right. Sister Rones life was a life of peace and quietude, her influence in her home caused it to be a peaceful home, and those who knew her best loved her most. Soon the rest of us must cross over the river of death, and how careful we should be that each of our lives should be as God would have them be! And my prayer is that her husband, through the good influence of Sister Rone, will be constrained to live for Christ the rest of his days and meet Sister Rone in heaven. May the blessings of God rest on this bereaved family.

Mrs. T. E. Riley.

Gospel Advocate, October 3, 1918, page 951.

Roney, Harold B.

A prince in the kingdom of Almighty God was called to eternal rest in the early yours of Monday, Feb. 5, in the shocking passing of Brother Harold B. Roney. Brother Roney died at Warren County (Tenn.) General Hospital of a massive heart attack.

In the death of this great and good man, the McMinnville-Warren County area has lost one of its foremost leaders. In the financial community, in civic and community affairs and in the day-to-day activity of this Middle Tennessee area, Brother Roney was very active.

But above and beyond all of this, he was a faithful servant in his church; a dedicated supporter, in both time and resources, of Christian education and homes for orphaned children. He was a man after Gods heart.

A resident of McMinnville for 20 years, Brother Roney was an elder of Central Church of Christ. Only three weeks prior to his death he was named president-emeritus of City Bank and Trust Company, after directing the financial institution over two decades to a pinnacle of leadership in this community. Brother Roney was a member of the board of directors of Freed-Hardeman College and was only recently named chairman of the colleges new $5-1/2 million fund-raising campaign. He had long served as a member of the board of directors of Potter Home and School at Bowling Green, Ky.

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Elsie Nelson Roney; two sons, Harold N. Roney, McMinnville attorney and gospel preacher, and Charles E. Roney, minister of the Greeneville, Tenn., church of Christ. One granddaughter also survives.

A man of great talent and ability, Brother Roney was a leader among men, a dynamic force in his home community and truly a shining symbol of faith and dedication in the Lords work.

Gospel Advocate, April 12, 1979, page 235.

Roney, Harold Nelson

Memorial services for former Tennessee State Rep. Harold Nelson Roney, 49, an attorney, were Dec. 8 at Westwood Church of Christ in McMinnville, Tenn. Burial was Dec. 6 in Spring Hill Cemetery in Madison, Tenn.

Roney died Dec. 4, 1988, after a long illness. He was a partner in the law firm of Camp & Roney and a former part-time minister of several churches of Christ in Middle Tennessee.

Roney served as a state representative for Sumner County from 1960 to 1964 and a member of the McMinnville Board of Mayor and Aldermen from 1964 to 1968. In 1967, he was vice mayor.

Roney was a graduate of David Lipscomb University and Vanderbilt University Law School, both in Nashville. He was a member of the Tennessee Bar Association and a former member of its board of governors.

Roney was minister of music and a member of Westwood Church of Christ and was associated with many civic organizations in and around McMinnville.

He is survived by his wife, Judith; his mother, Elsie Nelson Roney, of McMinnville; and a brother, Charles E., of Russellville, Ky. Memorial contributions may be made to David Lipscomb University, Westwood Church of Christ, Boyd Christian School, or Agape, Inc.

Gospel Advocate, February, 1989, page 51.

Roney, Lizzie B.

Few women in the kingdom of God have measured to the work expected of her and pressed on toward the mark of the high calling as Sister Lizzie B. Roney. After a battle with pneumonia and two weeks of combat with a massive heart attack, this godly creature of the dust gave up life here on earth at 2:15 A.M. on Thursday, August 10, 1972.

The kingdom of God is richer; his church has been of far greater resource; the welfare of widows, orphans and the less fortunate has been more adequately attended as a result of the life lived by this good woman.

In many respects, however, she will not be truly missed, because of the fact that she trained up her child in the way he should go and H. B. Roney has not strayed therefrom. Her other childrentwo grandchildrenhave risen up, likewise, to call her blessed.

In the closing days of her life, she was constant in prayer for the faithfulness of members of the church to old paths; for the continued devotion of hers to it, and this writer was with her when she prayed that Gods sunlight would continue to shine on her son that he might advance good works reflective of all that she had believed right and good in the sight of her heavenly Father through more than three-quarters of a century of devotion, dedication and support to those things she believed to be pure and acceptable in his sight.

Lizzie Brizendine Roney passed from this life at age 90. She had been in good health until two week prior to her death.

She was born at Fountain Head in Sumner County, Tenn., on February 19, 1882 and was married to Charles Roney on December 17, 1899. He preceded her in death October 26, 1950. Besides her son, she is survived by grandsons, Harold N. Roney and Charles E. Roney, all of McMinnville and all faithful members and leaders in local congregations.

Sister Roney was baptized at Buck Lodge, Tenn. on September 24, 1893, by the late J. H. Curry. She was a faithful member of Buck Lodge, Bushs Chapel, Portland and Jones Chapel congregations, all in Sumner county, and she was then active in the organization of the Fountain Head church and was a member of that congregation for some eighteen years.

In 1948, she and her husband and his sister, Carrie, who had made her home with them, moved to Hendersonville, Tenn. She was a member of the congregation there from 1948 to 1959. Her husband, who was ill most of his life was converted by Sister Roney and obeyed the gospel on August 21, 1948.

From 1959 until her death, she was a member of Central church of Christ of McMinnville, where she resided with her son, an elder of Central church.

Throughout her years, Sister Roney was active in the work of the Lords church, where she worshipped. She was a longtime Bible school teacher and lent support on numerous occasions to orphan homes, missionaries, young preachers and other good works in congregations where she attended.

Sister Roney was the author of a book, Gems of the Years, published in 1953. The book is a compilation of poems, thoughts, Scriptures and various other writings which she had collected since 1905.

From 1905 to 1912, the Roneys operated a general store at Buck Lodge and from 1925 to 1945 she served as postmaster at Fountain Head.

Funeral services were held August 11 at 1 P.M., at the chapel of Highs in McMinnville. Julian Goodpaster, James Vandiver and Rufe Higgins officiated. Interment was in the Spring Hill Mausoleum in Nashville, where Jim Bill McInteer officiated.

Chick Brown.

Gospel Advocate, September 7, 1972, page 574.

Rorex, Volney Minor

Volney Minor Rorex was born in Scottsboro, Ala., on December 2, 1883. He was the son of Dr. and Mrs. William Jackson Rorex. His father was a dentist.

Brother Rorex passed away in Alexandria, La., in December, 1972. His funeral was held in Alexandria on December 21, and the burial was in Scottsboro, Ala.

He leaves his beloved wife, Leah, whom he married on October 30, 1912. After living and working in Mississippi and Arkansas, he moved to Alexandria in 1937. He worked for Arkansas Oak and Flooring Company.

His sister, Mrs. Mary Rorex Hackworth, survives and lived in Alpine, Texas, with her son, Jack Hackworth, who is a gospel preacher.

Brother Rorex was about sixteen years of age when he was baptized in the Tennessee River by T. L. Smith. Through the years he helped establish congregations and to strengthen the work of the Lord through serving as a Bible teacher and generously supporting the church. He served as treasurer for the Jackson Street church in Alexandria. He founded the church in Pine Bluff, Ark., in 1913 in his home. Later a building was purchased, and the church began to grow. When he lived in Helena, Ark., a congregation did not exist. He and about five members began to meet and then a building was erected. He also assembled with the church in Alexandria when it was meeting in a store building.

The Gospel Advocate was in the Rorex home all through the years. No doubt this was a powerful and stabilizing influence on the lives of Brother and Sister Rorex. They are benefactors of Freed-Hardeman College in appreciation of its work in preparing faithful and sound gospel preachers. We are thankful for their support of Christian education.

E. Claude Gardner.

Gospel Advocate, August 2, 1973, page 499.

Rose, Cass

Prof. Cass Rose, son of Elder K. L. Rose, was born, in Hardeman County, Tenn., on November 28, 1865, and died, in Stamford, Texas, on February 12, 1904. Brother Rose suffered terribly during the last week of his life, but he did not complain; yet he was very anxious to get back to the schoolroom. He said: I cannot imagine how the teachers can do all the work without me. He leaves a heartbroken wife and three childrenone girl and two boysthe youngest being only five months old. When about sixteen years of age, Brother Rose was baptized into Christ; at the age of eighteen years he began teaching school, after which he again attended school as a pupil; on December 24, 1891, at Essary Springs, Tenn., he was married to Rachel B. Holley. In 1896 they came to Texas. For four years he taught school in Detroit, Red River County. In 1900 he came to Stamford, where he organized and taught the first school taught in the town. He continued this work till he was attacked by the malady which proved fatal; and by his untiring efforts he built a fine schoolthe best school, perhaps, in West Texas. He was a true, loyal Christian; he believed the word of God and was satisfied to walk in Gods way. May God bless the bereaved wife and children.

L. S. Ivy., Stamford, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, October 6, 1904, page 634.

Rose, Felix G.

Brother Felix G. Rose was born on April 3, 1837, and died, of heart failure, on May 18, 1904. He obeyed the gospel, under the preaching of Brother Lallie, in 1860; but the Civil War followed, and Brother Rose became weak in the faith and remained so for about eighteen years. In 1879 I persuaded him to return to the path of dutiful obedience, and he so continued till death. In 1881 he became so zealous for the cause of the Masterseeing his loss of time in disobedience, the great necessity of all obeying the Master, and the necessity of preaching the gospel of Christthat, though very limited in education, he boldly, but very humbly, went forth and preached the gospel during the remainder of his life. His last sermon was delivered, at the Forks of Mill Creek, in Clay County, Tenn., on Sunday before his death on Wednesday morning. While his disadvantages were great, he committed much scripture and poetry to memory; and having a heart full of love and goodness and being blessed with the gift of speech, he addressed his hearers with an earnest appeal, which was very persuasive, and many became obedient to the faith by his preaching. He was poor in this worlds goods, but rich in faith. Brethren Marion Harris and S. Rich conducted services at his burial. He leaves many relatives and friends to mourn their loss, but we trust it is his gain.

Hiram Pharris., Gainesboro, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, June 16, 1904, page 378.

Rose, Lizzie

On the evening of March 20, 1913, at six oclock, the soul of our beloved sister, Lizzie Rose, ceased all earthly sufferings and bravely crossed over the river of death, where all true children of God shall receive glorified bodies and endless rest and peace, and where fadeless flowers shed their heavenly fragrance through the endless ages of eternity. Sister Rose was thirty-two years old. Thus in the sunniest and happiest hours of life we may be called to eternity. Be ye also ready is our Saviors watchword for every Christian. She became a Christian at the age of sixteen, and death found her one of the truest, purest, and best members of the church of Christ in Memphis. On Lords day when she came to the place of worship, she wore a smile, and it was an inspiration to me to see her there. It was the writers good pleasure to know her, and he feels safe in saying she was one of the best Christians in the world. Her position with the business world was filled well, and she ever manifested the spirit of Christ. Kindness, cheerfulness, patience, and faithfulness were prominent in her lifes work. Now her work is over. Her soul has gone to God who gave it. He will say, Well done. To the mother, sister, and brother, and all who loved her, let me say: If we would meet Lizzie 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 when the great judgment day is passed we shall meet her in that eternal home, where there shall be perfect peace and perfect joy, and where we shall join the innumerable host of heaven to sing Gods praises for evermore. Then there shall be no sorrow, because God shall wipe all tears away.

W. S. Long.

Gospel Advocate, June 26, 1913, page 620.

Rose, Nancy

Again our hearts were made sad when the death summons came and claimed our beloved Sister Nancy Rose. She was born in Tennessee on June 17, 1829. She obeyed the gospel early in life, and lived in the service of God for forty years. She lived to see all of her children grown and obey the gospel; and on the evening of November 14, 1906, she fell asleep in Jesus. We grieve for our loss, but not as those who have no hope. We held a prayer service at her funeral and laid her remains away to rest. So grieve not, dear children. Henceforth let us so live and let our lights so shine that we will be able to shake hands with her and sit down in the kingdom of God forever. The writer conducted the services at the grave.

E. T. Wilson., Ashland, I. T.

Gospel Advocate, January 3, 1907, page 14.

Rose, Rosa Belle Knowland

Sister Rosa Belle Knowland was born December 26, 1887, near Sellersburg, Ind. She was married November 23, 1905, to Walter Rose. Two children were born to this unionMrs. Emma Bettcher, of Indianapolis, and Alvin Rose, of Dayton, Ohio. Sister Rose passed away September 13 at the Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, following an operation for appendicitis. She obeyed the gospel at the age of fourteen years, and her passing marks the end of a faithful Christian life. She was a devoted wife, a loving and helpful friend. Funeral services were conducted at Sellersburg by Brother Boyer, of that place. The body was laid to rest in the cemetery there.

J. S. Welch.

Gospel Advocate, November 23, 1933, page 1126.

Rose, Samuel E.

Samuel E. Rose was born on October 15, 1852, in Blue Lick, Ind., and passed peacefully on to his reward, December 7, 1932. His father, Ira Rose, moved to Sellersburg, Ind., when Samuel was a mere boy, where he was married, April 16, 1879, to Sarah Seitz, who preceded him in death thirteen years. After marriage, Brother and Sister Rose obeyed the gospel under the preaching of George Klingman. They moved to Indianapolis, Ind., in 1913, where he became a charter member of the Southside Church, of which he was an elder at the time of his death. Brother Rose was not a man of publicity, unassuming in manners, yet strong in the faith, and regularly at his post. His presence added strength to the cause, and his absence was keenly felt by a host of friends and relatives. Another pilgrim has gone home, for whose loss consolation is found in Holy Writ: 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. That ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. He is survived by a sister, of Marion, Ohio; a son, Walter Rose, of Dayton, Ohio; and Ida Curtis, of Indianapolis, with whom the deceased had lived for seventeen years. The remains were laid to rest beside his wife at Sellersburg, after funeral services at that place, conducted by Brother Boyer.

J. S. Welch.

Gospel Advocate, March 16, 1933, page 263.

Rose, Thomas D.

Thomas D. Rose was born in Pembroke, Ky., in 1887. He passed away January 10, 1960, at his home in Shreveport, La. He was seventy-two. September 13, 1913, he was married to Mary Alberta Hopson. To this union four children were born. He is survived by his wife, two children, Mrs. Ruth McMaster of Houston, Texas, and Paul Rose of San Antonio, Texas. Paul is an elder in the Jefferson Street Church in San Antonio. He is also survived by three brothers and three sisters. Brother Rose attended Nashville Bible School and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky. He began preaching in Nashville, Tenn., in 1911. He moved to Houston, Texas, in 1925 to work with the Central Park Church. While there he helped start the church on Milby Street. He also preached for the church in Goosecreek, Galveston and Fort Worth, Texas, before moving to Shreveport, La., in 1943. In Shreveport he preached six years at Creswell Street, helped start the church in Bossier City and also Southern Avenue, where he preached for seven years. In the fall of 1957 he moved to Lake Charles, La., but was stricken with a heart attack in December soon after beginning his work there. He returned to Shreveport in July, 1958. He was never able to preach again after his heart attack in December, 1957. Funeral service was conducted at the Southern Avenue Church January 12 by Elbert Young, Jack Arvin, Horace Hampton and the writer. Another service was conducted in Fort Worth, Texas, on January 13 by Horace Hampton and Leroy Brownlow. His body was laid to rest in Fort Worth. Thus ended the life of a great servant of Christ who had spent forty-nine years preaching the gospel.

Gussie Lambert.

Gospel Advocate, March 3, 1960, page 143.

Rose, Thomas David

The home of Thomas D. Rose, minister of the Polytechnic church of Christ, Fort Worth, Texas, was saddened Friday, March 14, by the news of the death of the oldest child, Thomas David Rose, in an airplane accident in Moffett Field, Calif. David was flying with his instructor, Lieut. Mortimer Gager, of Port Arthur, Texas, when the accident occurred. Both men were killed instantly. The cause of the accident can never be known certainly.

Thomas David Rose was born in Atlanta, Ga., September 29, 1914. He was the oldest of four children; one, Lorelle, died in infancy. Paul and Ruth remain a joy and a comfort to their parents. David was baptized into Christ at the age of eleven; graduated from high school when sixteen; and finished Abilene Christian College at the age of twenty. For six years following his graduation he taught school, being primarily interested in directing bands. He became interested in aviation and hoped to become an instructor and give his life to such work in the field of commercial aviation. He spent ten weeks at San Diego, Calif., before he was moved to Moffett Field, where he met his death just thirty-two days after his arrival.

The body reached Fort Worth and was buried Wednesday, March 19, 1941. The auditorium of the Polytechnic Church house, with a seating capacity of one thousand, was well filled with friends from widely-scattered sections of the state. About seventy-five young people who had been associated with David in his schoolwork near Longview came in a body. Friends from Houston, Galveston, Abilene, and many other places nearer came for the funeral.

Flying Cadet Robert Hughes, friend and companion of David during his entire stay in California, accompanied the body to Fort Worth. He stayed with the family and did all he could to comfort them. He also had a part in the funeral program.

During the funeral service Brethren Jess Hall, Coleman Overby, and Melvin Wise offered prayer. H. W. Busby read appropriate Scriptures. Mr. Tinnie (a former schoolteacher), Flying Cadet Robert Hughes, and Jasper Dunn, Jr., spoke of David as they knew him. LeRoy Brownlow, C. E. Woolridge, and C. A. Norred spoke words of comfort to the family and friends. W. K. Rose closed the service at Rose Hill Cemetery. The writer arranged and took care of the details of the service.

The great gathering of friends, the large floral offering, and the affectionate expressions of associates indicate how much David Rose was loved and appreciated. This, added to the comfort to be derived from the promises of Gods word, sustained the family through the ordeal, and will continue to comfort and cheer them until the great reunion.

Roy H. Lanier.

Gospel Advocate, April 3, 1941, page 333.

Roseberry, Philip

Philip Roseberry, a minister of the church and director of the Shiloh program in the East New York section of Brooklyn, N. Y., was shot and killed June 30. He had just escorted some young Shiloh volunteers to the building where they lived. As the young ladies were climbing the stairs to their apartment, they heard two shots in the street. They returned to find Brother Roseberry lying dead in the doorway. Police have been unable to identify his assailant or establish a motive for the murder. His wallet and the small amount of money he carried were untouched.

Brother Roseberry and his wife, Donna, had worked in East New York, Brooklyn, for five years. As news of his death spread through the neighborhood, hundreds of people, young and old, gathered in the street in front of the apartment building where he had lived, seeking to comfort his widow and to express their outrage and disbelief at the tragedy. Community leaders in East New York organized a memorial service and a drive to collect funds to assist Donna Roseberry.

Little more than a year ago, Brother Roseberry was badly beaten by an invading youth gang from out of the neighborhood. His face had required major surgery.

Both Philip and Donna Roseberry were graduated from David Lipscomb College. Their Christian lives are a credit to the institution which educated them.

Donna Roseberry is expecting a child in the fall. Because they had worked in Brooklyn on meager support since they graduated from college, they had accumulated no money of their own. Contributions of fellow Christians could further assist in easing the many burdens she will have to bear in the coming months and years.

Checks written to Camp Shiloh, Inc., and earmarked for this fund will be tax deductible. According to Bryan A. Hale, executive director of Shiloh, all funds collected will be disbursed directly to Donna Roseberry. Contributions may be sent to Camp Shiloh, P. O. Box 627, Mendham, N. Y., 07945.

Funeral services for Brother Roseberry were conducted Thursday, July 3, in his hometown of East Liverpool, Ohio.

I have known the Roseberrys well, and I know the community in which they worked. Philip Roseberry is at rest with the Lord whom he served. May we each aspire to become what Philip Roseberry was.

Don Haymes.

Gospel Advocate, July 24, 1975, page 478.

Ross, Eudora Poynor

Mrs. Eudora Poynor Parrish Ross was born July 18, 1866; died July 15, 1937. She was the daughter of William and Milbrey Williams Poynor, who lived in Cheatham County, near Sycamore Mills. She married Andrew Forrest Parrish when she was sixteen years of age, and to this union seven children were born. A son, Grover Cleveland, died in 1900. He husband died in 1905. In 1910 she married John Walter Ross, of Nashville. To this union a daughter was born. This daughter, her husband, and six children by her first marriage survive her. She obeyed the gospel early in life, and remained faithful through trials and tribulations. Funeral services were conducted from the family home, Hartsville, Tenn., by James A. Allen, of Nashville with interment at Mount Olivet.

Mrs. J. B. Walker., Celina, Tenn., daughter.

Gospel Advocate, November 11, 1937, page 1079.

Ross, Floyd H.

Floyd H. Ross, 63, of Belleview, Fla., died Jan. 19 with acute leukemia. He was a native of Ohio, moving to Florida in 1969. He preached the gospel for 35 years, being located at various congregations in both states before moving to Belleview in 1984 to work with his new congregation. He also taught school for 20 years, 11 years were at the Christian Home and Bible School, Mt. Dora, Fla. At the time of his death, he was teaching at the Belleview Elementary School.

He was a graduate of Freed-Hardeman College and Ashland College, Ashland, Ohio. He was also a Navy veteran of World War II.

He is survived by his wife, Annabel Love Ross; daughter Judy Caughman of Leesburg, Fla.; sons, Patrick of Belleview, and Michael of Tavares, Fla.; his mother, Clara Ross of Akron, Ohio; and four grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted by Sam Hill and Cletus Stutzman. Burial was in the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Ocala, Fla.

Gospel Advocate, March, 1988, page 62.

Ross, Fred

My father, Fred Ross, passed away on November 28, 1935. He was born of William C. Ross and Louisia Ross in Grants Township, Mich., on March 3, 1879. He was married to Gracia A. Dennis in Crowley, La., in 1911. To this union were born three children: Gracia M. Ross, Mary Louise (who died in infancy), and Frederick J. He had been in the active ministry for twenty-six years. In the early years of his ministry he preached for the Christian Church, but in the fall of 1930 he placed his membership with the church at Abilene Christian College, and since then has labored with the brethren of the church of Christ. I am taking over his duties in the church here.

Frederick J. Ross., 56 Lansdowne Avenue, St. John, N. B., Canada.

Gospel Advocate, January 30, 1936, page 119.

Ross, Mrs. H. L.

Among the faithful members of the congregation worshiping on North Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, Tenn., was Sister H. L. Ross. She passed on to her reward and we had services in her memory at Williams Funeral Home January 5. She was born nearly seventy-two years ago and lived most of her life at Smyrna, Tenn. She was a widow and for the past fifteen years had lived with her daughter, Mrs. Frances Kittrell, Jr., in Mt. Pleasant. She has another daughter, Mrs. Lester Goodman, of Lavergne, Tenn., and a son, H. L. Ross, Morristown, Tenn., that survive. For these last fifteen years Sister Ross has given me great encouragement in trying to preach the gospel. Many times, when the audience was small and the conditions discouraging, Sister Ross would warmly shake my hand, and say: Brother Austin, that was a good sermon you preached tonight, and I enjoyed it. Such compliments sincerely given are a great help to a preacher. She will be long remembered by her many friends.

C. S. Austin.

Gospel Advocate, March 5, 1953, page 142.

Ross, J. C.

Brother J. C Ross died at his home, in Claiborne County, Miss., Monday, Dec. 10, 1894. He was an elder in the Hickory Ridge church; was born in 1820, married to Lena Campbell in 1852, and was baptized into Christ by Brother J. C. Davis in 1854. He has been a faithful worker in the Lords vineyard for forty years, and was always in his place at the Lords day service. On the first Lords day in this month he was not at church, and I wondered why Brother Ross was not out, but when I went to his home I found him in bed very sick. Brother Ross trusted in Gods promises, and when he would meet with disappointments he would say, God knows best, and would always say as he would grasp my hand to bid me good-by: God bless you! My prayers are with you. I believe that he has gone to the home the Lord has prepared for his children, where there will be no toil, no sorrow, no pain, no death. Lord help us to live right, and prepare ourselves for that home!

W. M. Gammill.

Gospel Advocate, December 27, 1894, page 813.

Ross, John W., Jr.

John W. Ross, Jr., of Nashville, Tenn., died of a heart attack December 26, 1960. He was semi-retired from his work as salesman for Nashville Distributors Company two years before because of a heart condition. He was the son of the late Dr. and Mrs. John W. Ross, Sr. He had been a member of the Lischey Avenue church in Nashville since he was baptized there by R. V. Cawthon, December 16, 1934. For more than fifteen years he served as director of the Bible school. He was known widely for his genuine friendliness, sense of humor, and generous spirit. I selected him to help me sell subscriptions for the Gospel Advocate. We sold almost every family at Lischey Avenue. The Gospel Advocate has on sale now a very attractive and inexpensive sign he designed, had manufactured, and sold to them. Brother Ross is survived by his wife, the former Sammie Bradley, and one daughter, Vivian, two brothers, Houston and Dortch, and three sisters, Mrs. Leonard Sanders, Mrs. Frank Varner, and Mrs. J. C. Duncan. Funeral services were conducted at Lischey Avenue by the writer. I had known and loved Brother Ross for twenty-two years.

Paul Hunton.

Gospel Advocate, August 3, 1961, page 495.

Ross, Mary L. Riddle

Mary L. Riddle was born on February 5, 1843, and died on December 15, 1920. In the summer of 1869 she was born into the family of God, being baptized by Brother E. G. Sewell. At the time she made the confession she met for the first time Frank Ross, who afterwards became her life companion, and who also made the good confession the same day. They were married on October 12, 1869. Four children were born to this uniontwo boys and two girls. All of the children are dead. Sister Ross was a faithful, consistent Christian. She was almost an invalid for several years before her death, yet she was cheerful, and always ready to encourage and help others. She was an inspiration to her husband. I never knew an old couple more attached to each other than these two. She was the last member of a family of ten, and is survived only by her husband, Frank Ross, who is the last member of his family. Brother Ross is a member and an elder of the church of Christ at Smyrna, Tenn. Funeral services were conducted at the Smyrna church by Elder A. B. Barret.

Lacy H. Elrod.

Gospel Advocate, April 28, 1921, page 410.

Ross, Myrtle Waller

Sister J. A. Ross, who was Myrtle Waller, was a native of San Saba County and spent her early life in Colorado City, Texas. Sister Ross was a devout Christian and was deeply interested in the welfare of the church. She was interested in others and took advantage of every opportunity to teach and influence anyone to become a Christian. Her happy disposition will long be remembered by a wide circle of friends. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother who knew no sacrifice too great to make for her family. Sister Ross is survived by two sons: Leland A. Ross of Arlington, and Johnny F. Ross of Fort Worth; seven sisters, Mrs. Mary Altizer, Fort Worth; Mrs. Annie Swafford, Arlington; Mrs. Pearl Hart, Lubbock; Mrs. Lizzie Greer, Childress; Mrs. Ella Loving, Big Spring; Mrs. Emma Free and Mrs. Peggy Jenkins of Colorado City, one brother, John Waller, Mansfield, Texas, and her husband. The writer, assisted by Dillard Thurman, spoke words of comfort to the family and friends. The many beautiful floral offerings and a crowded auditorium bore testimony to the esteem and high regard in which she was held.

R. L. Yancey.

Gospel Advocate, March 22, 1956, page 286.

Rosson, Mrs. T. B.

Mrs. T. B. Rosson, wife of I. H. Rosson, was born on August 24, 1860, and died on November 6, 1908. She was added to the family of God on September 12, 1876. She lived a life to praise the name of Jesus over thirty-two years. While in her long sickness she solicited Brother J. R. Bates to make a talk at the funeral and have a few songs sung inciting her children and friends to the hope she had of meeting her Savior in the sweet land of deliverance to give praise to his glorious name forever. She leaves a husband, one daughter, and four sons to grieve for her.

I. H. Rosson.

Gospel Advocate, April 1, 1909, page 406.

Rotenberry, Ann Roberson

Ann Roberson Rotenberry, dean of women at Abilene Christian University from 1970-74, died Dec. 5 at 69. She was a member of University Church of Christ.

Rotenberry graduated from Harding University, Searcy, Ark., in 1952. She earned a masters degree from ACU in 1956.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul. They worked with congregations in Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Mrs. Rotenberry taught junior high and high school in Abilene; Nashville, Tenn.; and Memphis, Tenn. In 1969 she was named Teacher of the Year at a Memphis high school.

She was active in civic and professional organizations in Memphis and Abilene.

She served as president of ACU Faculty Wives in Abilene and was president of Harding Womens Club. She also wrote for Power of Todaymagazine.

She is survived by her son, Paul, and three grandchildren, all of Abilene; a sister, Katherine Holton of Washington, D. C.; several nieces and nephews; and Glen Yates of Abilene, her fianc. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Bradley.

Abilene, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, February, 1996, page 45.

Rotenberry, Paul

Paul Rotenberry, professor of Old Testament in the Harding Graduate School of Religion, was called to his eternal home July 7 after an illness of two weeks. Brother Rotenberry was born in Arkansas in 1921 and lived there until he was eighteen. He became a Christian early in life. In 1946 he married Ann Roberson, the daughter of Brother and Sister Charles Roberson of Abilene, Texas. Beside his wife, he is survived by a seven year old son, Paul Robertson, and a brother, Lee Rotenberry.

Dr. Rotenberry was a graduate of Freed-Hardeman College, Abilene Christian College, the University of Pennsylvania, and Vanderbilt University. From Vanderbilt he received his Ph.D. in Old Testament. He taught ten years in Abilene Christian College and seven in Harding College, the last six of which were in the Graduate School of Religion.

Brother Rotenberry preached for approximately twenty-five years. He did local church work by appointment, and preached in evangelistic meetings. He loved to preach and to teach. His going is a great loss to the Harding Graduate School of Religion and to the church in Como, Mississippi, where he had been preaching Sundays for six years while teaching at Harding.

By native ability, by training, and by experience, he was an eminently qualified teacher. He loved his students. He was kind and helpful to them. He was mindful of their needs and was every ready to assist them as their friend. His students and his colleagues will miss him. To me he was more than one of my teachers and a colleague, he was a genuine and close friend.

W. B. West, Jr.

Gospel Advocate, August 21, 1969, page 547.

Rothwell, J. D.

J. D. Rothwell, a faithful gospel preacher for 55 years, died Feb. 27, 1983, in his 71st year. He was born Feb. 1, 1912, in Childress, Texas. He was married to Opal Davis on Feb. 18, 1934, in Memphis, Texas. He preached for churches of Christ in Houston, Seymour and Estelline, Texas; Phoenix, Ariz.; Weatherford, Okla.; Bakersfield, Calif., and other places. He is survived by his wife, one son, Paul, of Houston; one daughter, Mrs. Jerry Don Nelson, Phoenix; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, W. M. Davis, Memphis, Texas, and L. A. Davis, Wellington, Texas; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Cressie Nester, Showlow, Okla., and Mrs. Louise Hodge, Siloam Springs, Okla., and by a great host of people whose lives were enriched and blessed by his.

W. T. Carter., Edmond, Okla.

Gospel Advocate, April 21, 1983, page 252.

Rothwell, Opal Marie

Opal Marie Rothwell, 79, died Jan. 14. Born in Fannin County, Tenn., she married J. D. Rothwell in 1934 in Memphis. The Rothwells labored in Texas, Oklahoma, Kentucky, California and Arizona. Mr. Rothwell was a preacher for almost 50 years before his death in 1983.

Survivors include a daughter, Jerry Nelson of Phoenix; a son, Paul Rothwell of Spring, Tenn.; two brothers, W. M. Davis of Memphis and Laurel Davis of Wellington, Tenn.; two sisters, Cressie Nester of Show Low, Ariz., and Louise Hodge of Memphis; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

Minister Tom Anderson officiated at the burial service Jan. 18. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery.

The family requests memorials be sent to Hands of Compassion, 830 W. Center, Rochester, MN 55902.

Gospel Advocate, March, 1992, page 29.

Roundtree, Elizabeth

Sister Elizabeth Roundtree, wife of W. B. Roundtree, died at her home near Mount Vernon, Texas, on March 9, 1910, aged seventy-two years, seven months, and five days. She obeyed the gospel early in life, near the age of fifteen years; hence for over half a century she lived a Christian life, and died the death of a Christian. She enlisted for the war, as her husband said, standing at the foot of the casket. She was both general and soldier; she planned the campaign, then fought the battles of her God. The old brother stood up before his dead and said, referring to his wife, cold and calm in the casket: You have fought a good fight, you have kept the faith, henceforth there is laid up for you a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give you at that day. Brother Roundtree held up a copy of the New Testament that Nettie Roundtree, a granddaughter, had presented to his wife, and said: This book has been her companion in life, her stay and comfort in death, and will be her passport into the glory world. The writer then took it,

held in his hand, and said: No doubt while Sister Roundtree lived, loved, and read this precious book, the lines of the hymn, Precious Bible, How I Love It, came often into her mind. Brother Roundtree laid the book gently upon the bosom of his lifelong companion, breathed a parting prayer and benediction amid the tears of three sons, one daughter, grandchildren, and a host of brethren and friends, and we laid her away to await the judgment and the great reunion, when we all will meet our loved ones, to part no more. Amen.

Thomas E. Milholland.

Gospel Advocate, April 14, 1910, page 470.

Roundtree, Robert Lee

Robert Lee Roundtree was born on February 20, 1868; in Franklin County, Texas. He obeyed the gospel, while quite young, under the ministry of the lamented C. M. Wilmeth. Brother Roundtree lived a Christian life and died in the full triumph of faith on November 7, 1909. He married Miss Eva Goswick on December 4, 1898. To this union one child, a boyKian Fleming Roundtreewas born; and he and his mother, with a host of relatives and friends, are left to mourn their loss. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

Thomas E. Milholland.

Gospel Advocate, December 2, 1909, page 1536.

Rountree, John Marion

In the death of Brother Rountree the church of Christ, locally speaking, sustains a loss of considerable moment. In almost every community there are a few men of pious disposition, with calm judgment and patient endurance. Brother Johnnie Rountree, as he was known, was one of that class. Other men younger and with less experience may be in the process of making, but he was already rich in faith, ripe in experience, and established in character.

As an elder, he was not of the dictatorial type, but with a meek and quiet spirit be led the way. It is far better to lead and point men all the while to the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world than to attempt to drive them into paths of righteousness. As a peacemaker, he was by no means a failure. Such men as Brother Rountree loved peace, and it is but natural that they should put forth an effort to create a peaceful atmosphere.

John Marion Rountree was born on December 30, 1850. He obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Brother Jim Morton in 1868. On November 22, 1876, he was married to Melvin Francis Witherspoon. To this union five children were born, two of whom surviveMrs. W. D. Locke, of Maury County, Tenn., and J. M. Rountree, Jr., of Nashville, Tenn.

He died at his home on Carters Creek, Maury County, Tenn., on May 18, 1922, leaving behind his companion for over forty-five years. May the memory of this good man and his life be an inspiration to others.

S. P. Pittman.

Gospel Advocate, June 22, 1922, page 597.

Rountree, Melvin Frances

Miss Melvin Frances Witherspoon was born on May 23, 1857, and died at her home on Carters Creek, in Maury County, Tennessee, September 24, 1932, at the age of seventy-five. On November 22, 1876, she was married to John M. Rountree, whom she survived ten years. In the following year she was married to Christ by her obedience to the gospel under the preaching of Brother J. M. Barnes. These two marriagesone fleshly and the other spiritualbrought her much joy and happiness, in spite of sorrows that came to her in the death of loved ones and in spite of protracted illness in her last days. Two children, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren survive her. These fourteen descendants have much to be thankful for when they reflect upon the character of their mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. In her departure she bequeathed to them a good name, which is better than silver and gold. Sister Rountree was buried at the Theta Cemetery, after funeral services held at Beech Grove, her place of worship.

S. P. Pittman.

Gospel Advocate, April 13, 1933, page 358.

Rountree, Paul Hollis

Paul Hollis Rountree, son of J. M. Rountree, was born on September 3, 1879; was married on February 8, 1899, to Miss Sarah Adeline Spivey, daughter of Brother W. R. Spivey; and died on January 22, 1914. He leaves five childrentwo girls and three boysand a widow, with a host of friends and relatives, who mourn their loss. Brother Rountree obeyed the gospel in early life, at about the age of fifteen, and lived a consistent, faithful Christian life to the end. His death brought unusual sadness and grief to the entire community, as well as to his family. He had been working on the railroad for several years, running from Nashville into Alabama. He was killed by a train at Franklin, Tenn., having left home well and strong. He was a devoted husband and a loving and affectionate father, a splendid citizen, and a humble, earnest Christian. His funeral was conducted by the writer and Brother William Morton on the day following his death, at Theta, Tenn. The writer joins with the entire community in sympathy for the family and relatives, praying that beyond the cloud of the present moment will come the rays of light that will bring happiness and contentment to them, and that after this life the entire family may be reunited, to say good-by no more.

W. T. Boaz.

Gospel Advocate, June 4, 1914, page 627.

Rouse, Annie

My dear daughter, Annie Rouse, was born on May 5, 1869, and died on November 9, 1909. She obeyed the gospel in early life. She was a lovely child when youngmodest, quiet, candid, and firm. She never flattered any one, yet was very kind and gentle to all, and was, therefore, universally loved by all. I do not think I would misstate the facts if I should say she was loved by every member of the church. She was a regular attendant at the Lords-day service when circumstances would at all permit her to go. She often went alone, sometimes leaving her little boy at home and sometimes taking him in her lap. She always seemed to enjoy the services with her brethren and sisters. Her belief in Gods word was her inspiration, and faith working by love produced a life that was truly lovely. She leaves, to mourn her loss, a husband and a father-in-law, a father and a stepmother, four sisters and two brothers. We all miss her very much, but let us not mourn as those that have no hope. She leaves two little boysone about six years old and the other about three weeks old. She was seemingly very well. She had gotten along well, had been sitting up and going out to her meals for several days; had eaten supper, and at bedtime undressed her little six-year-old boy and bade him good night. Mrs. Carmack, a lady of the neighborhood, was still with her; and when she was dressed for bed, she spoke to Mrs. Carmack, saying she was cold. She pushed her chair up to the fire and complained of a pain in her breast. Her father-in-law came and laid her on the bed. She again complained of a hurting in her breast, ad turned over to Mrs. Carmack and said: I am dyinghappy, happy! O, may we not interpret these words to mean Victory, victory! She had fought a good fight, she had kept the faith, and there is a crown laid up for her in heaven. May God help us by faith in his word to live the life she lived and trust the promises of God in death.

G. T. Ryan., Schochoh, Ky.

Gospel Advocate, December 23, 1909, page 1622.

Roush, Loren E.

Loren E. Roush, of Topeka, Kan., passed away suddenly June 30 in a heart attack. Brother Roush was a true Christian and an outstanding businessman, having been State Supervisor for Building and Loans for six years for the state of Kansas; president of the Swedish-American Building and Loan Association, of Kansas City, Mo.; director of the First Federal Savings and Loan Association, of Wichita, Kan.; and was one of the first members of the board of the Federal Home Loan Bank for the Tenth District. Brother Roush was one of Gods noblemen. He was active in helping build the cause in Wichita, Kansas City, and Topeka, and gave freely of his time and money. His passing will be a distinct loss to the cause of Christ in this state. Members of the church and businessmen from five states attended the funeral, which was one of the largest ever held in Topeka. Floral tributes covered the entire front of the building from floor to ceiling. Herbert M. Broadus and C. Roy Bixler conducted the services at the Mortuary and Morton Utley at the graveside. Brother Roush is survived by his wife (Sister Belle Roush), two sisters (Mrs. Chester Weekley and Mrs. John E. Kirk, of Topeka), and two brothers (Ernest B. Roush, of Harleyville, and Dr. A. N. Roush, of Topeka). Certainly Brother Roush lived a Christian life that will live long and be remembered by his many friends.

John E. Kirk.

Gospel Advocate, August 14, 1947, page 622.

Rowden, Harry Peyton

Harry Peyton Rowden, son of Brother J. C. Rowden and wife, was born, at St. Elmo, Tenn., on December 28, 1900; obeyed the gospel under the preaching of the writer, at East Chattanooga, Tenn., on May 19, 1922; died on February 2, 1923, at the home of his mother, in East Chattanooga, and was buried at Hooker, Ga., on February 4. Funeral services were conducted by Brother H. M. Phillips. Harry was an earnest, faithful, Christian young man from the day he obeyed the gospel till the day of his death. He was true to his parents, to his brothers and sisters in the flesh, to the church, and to his God, and we believe he is at rest. (Rev. 2:10; 3:10.)

Charles Holder.

Gospel Advocate, April 12, 1923, page 360.

Rowden, John C.

John C. Rowden departed this life on March 22, 1919. He was sixty-eight years old, and a member of the church of Christ for many years. He was a student of the Bible, a devoted Christian, full of faith and love. He was an elder of the East Chattanooga congregation for a number of years, and was liked and loved by all who knew him. He was always found at his post of duty unless he was sick. He was in bad health for many years, and this prevented him from being present at the Lords-day services a few times in his last days on earth. He is survived by one sister, who resides in Texas, and one brother, S. E. Rowden, of Chattanooga, Tenn. He leaves a wife and nine childrensix girls and three boys. Eight of this number are members of the church of Christ. The writer conducted the funeral services in the presence of a large assemblage of people. His remains were laid to rest in the cemetery at Hooker, Ga. May the surviving ones strive to meet him in the home above, where all is joy and peace and love.

W. A. McCullough.

Gospel Advocate, July 3, 1919, page 648.

Rowden, John H.

John H. Rowden was born Feb. 21, 1906, in Chattanooga, Tenn. He lived in East Nashville for most of his adult life with his wife, Alice, who preceded him in death in 1978. Just before her death, John and Alice celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. They were parents of three children, Bea Anderson, Carolyn Martin and John H. Rowden Jr.

John was employed by Southern Bell Telephone Co. for more than 47 years before retirement in 1971. Shortly after his retirement, Alice suffered a stroke, and he devoted his time, strength and ability to care for her for several years.

John listened to other peoples needs and would put them above things he wanted to do. He ministered to the sick, to persons in jail and prison, and to residents of Chapel Avenue Church of Christ Home for the Aged. He served as an elder for 40 years at Chapel Avenue Church of Christ.

Ed Kimbrough., 901 Allen Ave., Cookeville, Tenn., TN 38501

Gospel Advocate, September 17, 1987, page 572.

Rowe, Otis L.

Otis L. Rowe, well-known preacher of the gospel, died suddenly in his home at the age of fifty-nine on November 12, 1959, in Vidor, Texas. He was serving as minister of the church there. His passing was a shock to his family and many friends in East Texas, North Louisiana, and South Arkansas. Several years previous to his death he had suffered with a heart condition and was unable to preach for some time. However, after his apparent recovery he enjoyed good health and conducted several meetings each year in addition to his local preaching. He had preached the gospel for almost thirty years and had been instrumental in the saving of many souls and encouraging several young men to preach the gospel. Surely an outstanding soldier has fallen from the ranks of the servants of God. Funeral services were conducted in the church building in Carthage, Texas, November 14, with Bob Parker, O. H. Painter and the writer officiating. Sister Rowe will make her home in Carthage, Texas.

Dorice E. Mitchell.

Gospel Advocate, January 7, 1960, page 15.

Rowen, John

John Rowen was born March 17, 1876, and was baptized by Brother W. O. Srygley, in July, 1894, and died August 22, 1897. Brother Rowen obeyed the gospel his first opportunity, and has since lived a true Christian. His conversation was always pure, and his idle time was always devoted to reading the Bible. He studied to know his duty, and did it. He leaves a father, mother, sister, and two brothers, who have the brightest hope of meeting him in heaven if they live Christian lives.

Mollie Srygley., Iuka, Miss.

Gospel Advocate, October 21, 1897, page 669.

Rowland, Donald

The grim reaper entered the home of Brother and Sister R. C. Rowland, January 24, 1923, and claimed their son, Donald. Don, as he was generally called, was thirty-two years old. He obeyed the gospel of Christ at an early age, at Corinth, Miss. His suffering must have been great, yet he bore it with patience, while he expressed a desire to go home, where suffering is no more. He has entered that mysterious state called death, where, awaiting his coming, is one brother, Oscar, to welcome him home; for Don was a Christian boy, and no words can improve on that. He leaves a father, mother, two sisters, two brothers, and a host of relatives and friends. His body was buried at Tiplersville, Miss., where he attended worship. Funeral services were conducted by Brother Edd Shapley and Brother T. A. Rowland. May God bless the bereaved ones, and may he help us all to so live that we may be permitted to meet the dear departed one in that beautiful city prepared for those that love the Lord.

Vista R. Newsom.

Gospel Advocate, March 22, 1923, page 290.

Rowland, Martha Jane

Sister Martha Jane Rowland was born on September 19, 1857, and passed away on November 27, 1930. She was formerly a Johnson, and was married to Brother S. E. Rowland on November 4, 1880. Sister Rowland was a member of the church of Christ more than fifty years. She was always adorned with those graces which win for one the friendship of all who know that one aright. She was faithful to the Lord and loyal to her husband and children. She leaves five sisters, five children, and her husband, to sorrow because of her departure, but not as those who have no hope. The writer tried to speak words of comfort at Old Liberty, where her body was buried.

Gus Nichols.

Gospel Advocate, January 15, 1931, page 70.

Rowland, T. A.

Death has removed another of our old gospel preachers in the person of T. A. Rowland, of Tiplersville, Miss. Brother Rowland died at the home of a married daughter, Mrs. Olivia Rowland, Memphis, Tenn. The end came peacefully in confidence of hope and immortality. He was baptized many years ago by F. B. Srygley at Hopkins Crossing Church, near Walnut, Miss. He was the youngest son of a large family, and he also reared a large family, all girls. His wife, Phoebe Rowland, preceded him to the grave many years ago. Several older brothers served in the Civil War, and all have passed into the other world, excepting R. C. Rowland, of Tiplersville. Though not known very widely, T. A. Rowland was an able and efficient preacher of the word. He was instrumental in planting the cause at a number of hard points, and received little remuneration for his labors. Perhaps his greatest work was as an elder in his home congregation, over which he presided for many years, feeding, teaching, exhorting, and comforting, and encouraging the saints to be faithful. He was a man of prayer and faith, a diligent student of the Bible, and had little faith in the books of men. His motto was, Study the Word. He died at the age of seventy-two. His body was brought to Tippah County, Miss., and laid to rest in the old Enon Church cemetery. J. G. Nunnally, of Roger Springs, conducted the funeral services. He made an inspiring talk and paid a fine tribute to the deceased. The congregation at Tiplersville, Brother Rowlands home congregation, bows its head in grief and realizes its loss, but rejoices that he passed into a brighter and more wonderful world than this, to be forever with Christ, his Master and Lord.

D. P. Craig.

Gospel Advocate, November 20, 1930, page 1132.

Rowlett, B. F.

Brother B. F. Rowlett was born, in Kentucky, on January 2, 1841, and departed this life on December 15, 1903. At the age of eighteen years he went to Missouri, where he enlisted as a soldier in the Civil War. After the war he was married to Miss Amanda Brown, who died in 1878. On October 15, 1879, he came to Lake County, Tenn., and here he was married, on August 8, 1881, to Miss Mary Hunt. He obeyed the gospel in 1863, and was ever afterwards true and faithful to Christ and his teaching. The congregation at Burrus Chapel will miss him. He was a faithful teacher and leader of the flock. He often admonished us to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. He was punctual in his attendance upon the services of the church and was faithful in the performance of all his duties. He visited the sick and ministered to their necessities. He was a man of firm convictions and of strong, abiding faith in God. May the bereaved family and all the sympathizing friends live, as did Brother Rowlett, faithful to the Master, and thus be prepared to meet him when the sorrows and cares of life are ended.

A. C. Murdock., Keefe, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, April 14, 1904, page 234.

Royse, Loretta Beatrice

Loretta Beatrice Royse, 82, was born to Edward and Augusta Arndt in Clarkshill, Ind., Dec. 4, 1912, and died in Vancouver, Wash., Feb. 16.

Loretta met her husband, Nyal, during her school years. They graduated from high school and attended the same congregation near Clinton, Ind.

The couple was married Dec. 23, 1934, by Charles Cook, Nyals grandfather.

After finishing her teaching credential at Eastern Illinois State Teachers College, Royse began teaching elementary school. She also attended Pepperdine University, California State University and Lewis and Clark University.

In 1935, the Royses wrote a history text about Indiana found in most major libraries today.

In the 40s and 50s, they wrote Bible Pathways Bible school literature. The publication was sold in the 50s but remains, under a different name, a major educational systems in churches of Christ some 40 years later.

Royse also wrote for the Gospel Advocate.

She is survived by her husband; four daughters; Melceena Mowbray of Oak Harbor, Wash., Lois Alexander of Aloha, Ore., Bonnie Willis of Snohomish, Wash., and Nancy Hendricks of Vancouver, Wash.; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Gospel Advocate, June, 1995, page 49.

Royse, Mamie R.

Mamie R. Royse was born in Park County, Ind., April 15, 1890; died in the Clinton Hospital, January 11, 1948. She was the wife of T. Wess Royse, elder of the church at Fairview Park, and the mother of Nyal D. Royse, one of our faithful gospel preachers, of Los Angeles, Calif. Besides these two, she leaves to mourn her passing three daughters (Mrs. Valeria Kempton, of Russellville, Ind.; Mrs. Rachel Gregg, of San Francisco, Calif.; and Mrs. Martha Brown, of State College, Pa.), one brother (Charles A. Cook, of Terre Haute, Ind.), one sister (Linnie Davis, of Hebron, Ind.), and six grandchildren. She was the daughter of the late Charles T. and Eliza Ann Daily Cook, pioneer residents of Park County, Ind. Her life was consecrated in Gods service, and her influence for good will be felt for many years in the community where she was highly respected. Funeral services were held January 14 at the Fairview Park Church. The large auditorium was overflowing, and there were many floral offerings. The writer, assisted by John McCormick and Leo Miller, tried to speak words of comfort to the sorrowing, encouragement to the faithful, and warning to the sinner.

J. Grover Moss., Danville, Ky.

Gospel Advocate, February 5, 1948, page 141.

Royse, Mary Jane

Mary Jane, daughter of William and Susanna Blakeney, was born in Vermillion County, Ill., on February 9, 1853. She was married to A. J. Royse on March 26, 1871. To this union were born eleven children, four of which preceded her in death. The remaining children and faithful husband cared for her every want during her lingering illness, which she so patiently bore. On July 6, 1922, she peacefully fell asleep at her home in Covington, Ind., at the age of sixty-nine years. She leaves a broken-hearted husband and seven loving children. She obeyed the gospel call early in life, being baptized by Raleigh Martin. She was a noble Christian, a faithful wife, a loving mother, and a kind friend and neighbor, always ready to aid in any possible way she could, and was loved by all who knew her. The funeral services were to her likingbrief and simple, devoid of show. The scripture was read by Charles T. Cook, of Clinton, Ind., and the sermon was delivered by William Ellmore. Burial took place in the Upper Mound, or Rogers cemetery.

Ada Robb.

Gospel Advocate, August 10, 1922, page 766.

Royster, Homer Howell

Homer Howell Royster, 80, died Feb. 18, 1982. He was born in Dukedom, Tenn., Nov. 21, 1901. He was baptized by John B. Hardeman. He was a minister of the Gospel 46 years. Graveside services were held Saturday, Feb. 20 in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Weakley County near Dukedom, with Hilton Royster officiating.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Elsie Seay Royster, a son, Hilton Royster, Savannah, Tenn.; three grandchildren and one sister, Mrs. Florence Ray of Jackson, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, October 21, 1982, page 632.

Royster, Josephine

Mrs. Josephine Royster, daughter of S. C. Franklin (deceased) and wife of Charles E. Royster, was born, near Hartsville, Tenn., on February 12, 1847. She was married on December 23, 1869, and became the mother of three childrenone son and two daughterswho are left to mourn the loss of a good mother. Her husband survives her in loneliness. She came, with her family, from Tennessee to Texas in January, 1886. She became a Christian about 1866 and was faithful till the end of life. She read the Gospel Advocate and was known to many of its readers in Tennessee. She leaves one brotherT. C. Franklin, of Hartsville, Tenn.two sistersMrs. L. A. Bounds and Mrs. R. C. Horn, who live in Collin County, Texas. 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. C. Horn.

Gospel Advocate, January 21, 1904, page 47.

Rubel, Robert Owen, Sr.

Robert Owen Rubel, Sr., native of Louisville, Ky., but a resident of Mobile, Ala., for the past fifteen years, died at his home in Mobile on Tuesday morning, January 17, 1939, at 6:35 oclock. Surviving are his wife (Mrs. Kate Miller Rubel), one daughter (Mrs. James Culvin Morris, of Louisville, Ky.), one son (Robert O. Rubel, Jr., of Mobile), and other relatives. Funeral services were held from the church of Christ building, Mobile, Wednesday morning at 10 oclock, after which the body was sent to Louisville for interment in the Cave Hill Cemetery. Brother Rubel was past eighty-two. He had been a useful man in business, in the community, and in the church. His greatest interest was the church. When he came to Mobile, there was no church building; now we have three, and the fourth is in prospect. Brother and Sister Rubel made possible these buildings. This part of the world has been blessed by the presence of Brother Rubel. He had a faith which can be used for an example for any one. In fact, I could not find a fault in him. He may have had some faults, but to me he had so mastered them until nothing but a Christian could be seen. Not only did his life teach his fellow beings, but his loving expressions subdued the hardest of situations. He was loved by all who knew him. The church in Mobile feels that it has lost its best friend. The hope which is left behind for the family and friends is the strongest and sweetest of all. It was time for a rest. Sister Rubel will continue with us in Mobile. May God richly bless her.

A. H. Maner.

Gospel Advocate, February 9, 1939, page 143.

Ruby, J. E.

J. E. Ruby, of Madisonville, Ky., is dead. He departed this life on the first Lords day in July last, at Estill Springs, Tenn., where he had gone to recruit his health. Bro. Ruby was born in Webster county, Ky., Sept. 3, 1849. In his early manhood he moved to and went into business at Madisonville. He was married to Miss Vaden Turner, of Princeton, Ky., in 1874, who still survives him, together with six dear and precious boys. May the Lord ever keep them in the hollow of his hand. Our departed brother made the noble confession under the preaching of Bro. Geo. Flower, and was buried with his Lord in baptism in 1876. In 1877 or 1878 he was ordained a deacon by the church worshiping at Madisonville. So exemplary and Christ-like was his walk and conversation that the church some six years later ordained him an elder, which place he filled with Christian forbearance up to his death. To his sad, stricken wife and bereaved boys, let me say, dear sister and children, trust the Lord; put all your care on him: live faithful until death, and in the blessed beyond you each will wear a crown of righteousness, with your devoted husbandChristian fatherand our beloved brother and friend.

T. J. Gill.

Gospel Advocate, September 2, 1891, page 555.

Ruby, J. R.

Brother J. R. ruby was born at Somerville, Tenn., on April 30, 1843, and died on December 7, 1902. He was an earnest and zealous member of the church of Christ, worshiping with the Antioch congregation, a few miles east of Coldwater, Miss. He died, as he had lived for many years, with a strong faith and a bright hope of everlasting life. Brother Ruby earnestly believed the gospel to be Gods power unto salvation. He was anxious for all to know its precious truths. At his request, I have often preached at his home to friends and neighbors whom he had invited to come and hear. He accepted the Bible as his guide, and scarcely one who knew him will say that he did not earnestly strive to follow its teaching. To his friends and dear ones I commend as a balm to their sorrowing hearts that precious Book, whose comforting words he loved so well.

George B. Hoover.

Gospel Advocate, March 5, 1903, page 154.

Ruby, Wade

Funeral services for Dr. Wade Ruby, chairman of the English department at Pepperdine College, were conducted in Camden, Ark., with Maurice Hall officiating. Memorial services were held on campus for the veteran educator who had been with the school since its founding in 1937.

Brother Ruby was born in Coldwater, Miss., Aug. 24, 1908.

He attended Harding College in Searcy, Ark., and married Pauline Greening while he was a student there. After coming to Pepperdine Brother Ruby preached for the Sichel Street church of Christ, the Southwest church of Christ, and for churches in El Monte, Pasadena, Hermosa Beach, and Inglewood.

For the past fourteen years, he has been minister for the Hollywood church and worked with the church at Anza.

The memorial service at Pepperdine was conducted by Dear J. P. Sanders. Memorial addresses were given by Donald M. Miller, Dr. M. Norvel Young, Eugene White, and Hubert Derrick. Burial was in the family plot which was donated to the Two Bayou church of Christ in Camden by Mrs. Rubys great-grandfather.

Brother Ruby is survived by his wife, a son Douglas Wade and a daughter Betty Jean.

Billie Spivey.

Gospel Advocate, April 14, 1966, page 239.

Rucker, Bettie Price

On Thursday evening, June 13, 1896, as the day was drawing to a close, a life was also waning, and ere the holy hour of midnight was chimed the radiant spirit was freed from earth and its sorrows and borne by angels hands to its eternal abode, where suffering and sorrow are unknown. Gently the weary sufferer fell asleep in Jesus. Blessed sleep, from which none ever wakes to weep!

The loveliest flowers of the season are the first to fade; the sweetest moments of life are the shortest; the dearest ties that we ever formed are the first to be severed; the queenliest objects of our affections are the first to leave us. Life is made up of changes. Young and old are alike subservient to an inevitable change. This was sadly realized when Sister Bettie Price Rucker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Rucker, peacefully fell asleep in Jesus. Sister Bettie was born March 4, 1866. She was the first of eleven children to die; and it seemed that the life, the joy, the light of home had been taken. Possessed of a bright and loving disposition, she was loved by all who knew her. In October, 1884, she obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Brother J. A. Harding, and from that time her life was spent in devoted service to the cause of the Master she loved so well. Sister Bettie is sadly missed in the congregation, where her bright face and melodious voice were ever seen and heard. She is missed by the many friends who loved her so truly; but by the bereaved parents, the sorrowing brothers and sisters, and by Sister Tennie especially, who was her constant companion, she is O so sadly missed! For consolation I can only point their sorrowing hearts to our loving Heavenly Father, who doeth all things well.

Essie Odom., Nashville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, August 6, 1896, page 512.

Rucker, Elizabeth

I am called upon to make mention of the fact that a beloved sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Rucker, has been called from her home on earth to join the constantly increasing family in that better home on high. She was born on May 16, 1848, and died on December 31, 1903. She was baptized into Christ, by Brother Isaac Sewell, in 1865, and was a devoted Christian until her death. She leaves five children to mourn their loss and to follow her example. To them I would say: Weep not as those who have no hope, but press on in the race to the home where death never comes.

A. Alsup., Denton, Texas.

Gospel Advocate, March 31, 1904, page 202.

Rucker, Raymond Dalton

Raymond Dalton Rucker died Aug. 28. He was 69.

He had been a gospel preacher for 50 years, baptizing many people and strengthening many weak congregations.

Rucker spent most of his life preaching in southern Alabama.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth, and four children.

Gospel Advocate, November, 1992, page 45.

Rucks, Howell

Brother Howell Rucks was born on November 4, 1838, and died on April 16, 1910. His life of over threescore years and ten was not spent in vain. A Christian wife, useful sons, and noble daughters survive him. I knew him to honor, respect, and love him. His life was devoted to the service of the Lord. Free from guile, he loved the truth and desired to do right at all times. He had the courage of his convictions and was ever ready to embrace the truth as he learned it. For many years he was a Baptist; but when he learned the way of the Lord more perfectly, he cheerfully gave up Baptist errors and became simply a Christian. He was faithful till death. Of a bright, cheerful, and happy disposition, he led those about him to rejoice and not to weep. It is a blessed thing to scatter bright smiles all about us. He was in the War between the Statesspent two years in active service and two years in prison. 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. (Rev. 14:13.) Brother Rucks realized that this life was to be lived for a higher plane and that he was eventually to ascend to a higher platform where the whole aspect of things changes. There life is a treasure sublime, and sickness, pain, and sorrow are forever unknown. The death of the Christian is triumphant, and the memory of his life should serve as a blessed inspiration to bear us upward to heaven at last.

J. C. McQuiddy.

Gospel Advocate, July 28, 1910, page 883.

Rucks, Mrs. Howell T.

Mrs. Howell T. Rucks was born near Lebanon, Tenn., on November 22, 1844, and died at her home in Oklahoma City, Okla., on August 11, 1929. She was buried in the family cemetery near Rome, Tenn. Funeral services were conducted by Brother Elrod, of the Central church of Christ, Nashville, Tenn. She leaves, of her immediate family, two daughters, Mrs. A. E. Douglas and Mrs. Sallie Mason; two sons, J. H. and Dr. W. W. Rucks; one sister, Mrs. Meacham Chambers; also a niece, whom she reared from childhood, Mrs. A. S. Bains, of Oneonta, Ala. She had been a faithful member of the church of Christ for sixty-eight years. She obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Brother Caleb Sewell. She knew many of the gospel preachers and kept up with their work, for she was a lifelong reader of the Gospel Advocate. She lived in the Lord, she died in the Lord. She rests now from her labor, and her works live on. I loved to visit her and hear her talk of the heroes of the faith.

F. L. Young.

Gospel Advocate, October 3, 1929, page 957.

Rudd, Florence White

Florence White Rudd, of Bear Creek, Ala., died October 10, 1934. She was born in Millersburg, Rutherford County, Tenn.; educated at Mary Sharp College, Winchester, Tenn. She became a member of the church at the age of fourteen. She lived a godly life, full of faithful, conscientious service. She lived daily her religion as an example to her neighbors and friends. All who knew her loved, honored, and respected her as a Christian woman of honesty and integrity. She was for many years a teacher in the Sunday school. She is survived by a son and two daughters: Earnest M. Rudd, Jackson, Tenn.; Mrs. Mae Haggard, Atlanta, Ga.; and Mrs. L. C. Walters, Bear Creek, Ala., with whom she lived. Van A. Bradley, of Phil Campbell, preached the funeral.

Robert E. Moody.

Gospel Advocate, January 3, 1935, page 23.

Ruebush, Kirby Smith

My father, Kirby Smith Ruebush, departed this life June 12, in Jonesboro, Ark., at the age of ninety-one years. He had been a member of the Lords church for sixty years and loved it above everything else on earth. He was not a preacher, but nevertheless he preached Christ and the gospel to people with whom he came in contact in his everyday life. He and one other man were instrumental in establishing the cause of Christ in Monette, Ark., and for several months these two were the only men in the congregation. Dad was blessed with an excellent voice for singing and he used it to sing Gods praises as long as he lived. Just a few days before the end, he lifted his voice in a feeble way in the song he loved so well, Home on the Banks of the River. Dad never had the opportunity to attend school a day in his life. Yet he learned to read and to write his name after he and my mother were married. In time he was able to read the Bible well and he read it often. When his eyesight began to fail, he turned to his radio where he gained much from the gospel lessons. Never did a man use to the fullest every ability he had as did my dad. He spent his entire life working and doing for others. Never

once did I hear him speak unkindly of any person or express a desire to retaliate when mistreated by another. He leaves his wife, a son and daughter, and a grandson whom he and his wife reared from a baby. He also leaves two step-sons. Funeral services were held from the church building in Monette on June 14 by Melvin Elliott, assisted by St. Clair Slatton.

Edna Ruebush.

Gospel Advocate, August 29, 1963, page 559.

Ruebush, Maude McAdams

My mother, Mrs. Maude McAdams Ruebush, was born March 14, 1881 and departed this life on August 13, 1964, being eighty-three years old. My dad preceded her in death by fourteen months. As charter members of the Monette church of Christ, Mother and Dad worked and sacrificed untiringly for the success of the work in this place. Our home has been the meeting place of the church for months at a time and our home has served as the home of many gospel preachers. During the depression days of the 1930s, Mother never doubted the providence of God and she found nothing lacking in carrying out her part of the Lords work, and until she was disabled by a severe stroke several years ago, she was always up and about the Fathers business. After that time her efforts were limited, but not her faith in God and his promises. Her mind was very good and she read widely, therefore she was able to discuss intelligently any Bible subject with anybody. She has always stood firmly for the truth of Gods word in the face of all strife and controversy in the church. Today, because of her faith and others like her, the work at Monette is firmly established and growing. She has always been a mother whom her children called blessed and we have always been proud to call her our mother. She never gave either of us untimely advice and neither have we ever known her to uphold us in a wrong. God has blessed our family in so many ways and death did not enter in until 1963 when our dad was taken at the age of ninety-two years. Ten and one-half months, later, death struck suddenly again, taking my brother, Hubert, at fifty-nine years. Three months later the grim reaper took Mother. Certainly our sorrow is great but not as those who have no hope. All three of these died in the LordBlessed be the name of the Lord. One daughter survivesMiss Edna Ruebush of Monette, Ark. Two sonsJoe Dunavant of Clarksdale, Miss., and Elmo Dunavant of Miami, Fla. One grandson, whom she reared from a baby, Dr. B. G. Dunavant of Gainsville, Fla. Two sisters, two granddaughters and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by Melvin Elliott and Terry McGiffin, from Monette, Ark. Burial was in Monette Memorial Cemetery.

Edna Ruebush.

Gospel Advocate, September 24, 1964, page 623.

Ruhl, Virgil E.

The Decatur church of Christ, 1677 Scott Boulevard, Decatur, Ga., suffered a tremendous loss in the passing of Virgil E. Ruhl, on April 8, 1965.

The keen loss felt by the congregation over which Brother Ruhl served as a bishop is shared by all the churches in Greater Atlanta, and by the brotherhood at large. Brother Ruhl had served his Lord with dedication and distinction and was instrumental in the growth of the church in Greater Atlanta over the past thirty years.

Brother Ruhl was born Fredericktown, Ohio in 1900. After graduating from Ohio State University, he became employed by the B. F. Goodrich Co. On June 20, 1931 he married the former Julia Tracy. In the wonderful home which they established together were born two sons, Charles, who is now a dentist in Atlanta, and Bill, who preaches for the Lischey Avenue church of Christ in Nashville, Tenn.

Brother Ruhl was active in the work of the old Seminole Avenue congregation in Atlanta, serving as Sunday School Superintendant and later as deacon and then as an elder. After the congregation moved and became what is now the Druid Hills congregation, Brother Ruhl served here as an elder.

On June 1, 1958, approximately sixty members of the Druid Hills church moved out into the Decatur area to establish a new congregation. Brother Ruhl was a moving force and served as an elder of this congregation from its beginning until his death.

At the time of his passing, Brother Ruhl was serving as Sales Service Manager for Industrial Rubber Products for the South-eastern Division of the B. F. Goodrich Co. He had worked for this firm for almost thirty-nine years. While there he was faithful to the injunction to be not slothful in business, but fervent in spirit serving the Lord.

Brother Ruhl suffered a heart attack about ten days prior to his passing. A second heart attack occurred on the day of his passing.

Brother Ruhl is survived by his widow, Julia Tracy Ruhl, his two sons, Charles and Bill, two brothers Clyde Ruhl and Harry Ruhl and a sister Vay Ruhl, and grandchildren, Gayle, Betsy, and Janet Ruhl.

It is sincerely felt that the great influence of this godly bishop will live on through subsequent generations. May God raise up men to take the place of such dedicated servants who have gone on to their reward.

Archie B. Crenshaw.

Gospel Advocate, April 29, 1965, page 279.

Rumsey, Henry Wilson

Henry Wilson Rumsey was born on July 26, 1840, and died on August 26, 1908. He was a man of sterling worth, being upright in his deportment and scrupulously honest with all men, detesting every semblance of dishonesty. In his family he ever looked with a vigilant eye to the honor, dignity, and chastity of the home. As a friend and neighbor, none stood higher in his community than he. In early life he joined the Missionary Baptist Church, but remained with them only four years. As told by himself to the writer, four years after uniting with the Baptist Church he had a crop of wheat to sun, which took him a week. While sunning his wheat and minding the fowls off of it, he read the New Testament through. To his astonishment, he found nothing in it suggesting such a thing as the Missionary Baptist Church or its usages. He remarked to his wife that there was something wrong, and never any more affiliated with them. For several years he drifted along without any connection with any church, until he heard Brethren J. D. Jones, E. H. Boyd, and J. R. Bradley preach. Under the preaching of Brother Bradley he and his wife united with the disciples, to take the word of God alone as their guide through life. Through his influence all of his children who were not already committed to some denomination became Christians, and more devoted Christians than they are not often found. The high esteem in which he was held in the community was attested by the concourse of friends and neighbors who gathered at the Hayden graveyard to sympathize with the bereaved family and to pay their last tribute of respect to their departed friend. It was never my lot to conduct a funeral service of an adult when I could look with more assurance across the dark chasm of death to the rich reward laid up for the finally faithful; never, where I could with more confidence offer words of condolence to the bereaved, based on the precious promises of God.

R. N. Moody.

Gospel Advocate, October 14, 1909, page 1302.

Runnels, Raleigh

Young Raleigh Runnels has left us, victim of the dread cancer he fought so valiantly for nearly two years.

But Raleigh left us with many fond memories of a brilliant young life filled with achievement and a great lesson in courage and faith when he learned his destiny.

Raleigh passed from this life on July 1, just two weeks after he graduated with honors from Palisades High School. Funeral services were conducted on July 3 at the Inglewood Church of Christ, followed by services in Houston and burial in the family plot there.

The 17-year-old boy was the son of Charles and Amy Jo Runnels.

Born in Houston, Texas on September 22, 1954, Raleigh came to California with his parents ten years ago.

Raleighs initial surgery was in September of 1970. Afterward, he returned to letter again in cross-country track in the 11th grade. He also excelled in scuba diving, enjoyed hunting, fishing and bicycling and was an expert marksman with rifle and pistol.

An entrepreneur in creating plastic art objects, Raleigh had pursued this hobby since he was twelve. Last year the Los Angeles Times Homemagazine ran an illustrated article on his plastic art.

But most important of all his activities to Raleigh was the church. He was converted to Christ during the California campaign in 1967. He never missed attending church services in his life except when he was ill.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to the Raleigh Runnels Memorial Scholarship Fund, which has been established at Pepperdine. Raleigh had planned to continue his education at Pepperdine and had already been accepted for the pioneer freshman class starting at the new Malibu campus this fall.

In addition to his parents, Raleigh leaves two brothers, Duke and Tyler, and a sister, Susan. (Picture included)

M. Norvell Young.

Gospel Advocate, July 27, 1972, page 478.

Runnels, Tolbert Fanning

This obituary records the death of Tolbert Fanning Runnels, son of P. R. Runnels, of Rutherford County, Tenn. Tolbert Runnels was born at Mountain Home, Rutherford County, Tenn., on January 23, 1868. At the age of eighteen years, upon his confession of Jesus as Lord, he was baptized, it is thought by his loved ones, by the writer. He died, of consumption, on April 28, 1904, in Forney, Texas, whence he had gone seeking relief. Though he died far from home, he was not altogether among strangers; he died in the home of his brother, who resides there, and was tenderly and lovingly laid to rest in the cemetery at that place. With other friends and relatives, Tolberts aged father lingers on this side of the grave; he also leaves a wife and baby boy. To all these, and especially to this young wife and child our Christian sympathy is heartily extended. A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation (Ps. 68:5) to all such who obey and trust him. This promise of God is an unfailing guidance, abiding comfort, and supreme consolation. We commend this grief-stricken widow (with her precious treasure, her babe) and the bereaved ones to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build them up an to give them an inheritance in that world where sin and sorrow, death and parting will be no more.

E. A. Elam.

Gospel Advocate, December 1, 1904, page 767.

Runnels, W. A.

W. A. Runnels, of Kaufman, Texas, was born in December, 1862, and died on August 5, 1908, having lived nearly forty-six years. He obeyed the gospel at an early age, but, like many, was overtaken in faults; but before his sickness he returned to the fold of Christ and remained faithful until death. This fact spreads the rainbow of hope over the curtain of death to those who survive him. He leaves a wife and five children (the greater part of whom are grown), besides two brothers and three sisters, many relatives and friends, to sorrow, but not as those who have no hope. I personally knew Brother Runnels; married him to his wife while in Tennessee; met him frequently. He was kind and gentle to those with whom he associated. His father, P. R. Runnels, was a Christian preacher of ability; as an orator, he had few equals, and possessed many good qualities. I feel that in the ordeals through which his son passed the wise counsel of his father was never forgotten. To those who sorrow let me say that weeping may endure for a while, but joy cometh in the morning.

F. F. Dearing., Bellbuckle, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, March 4, 1909, page 276.

Rushing, Henry Lee

Henry Lee Rushing of Dallas, Texas, died at 84 on June 21.

A barber by profession, Rushing served as a deacon for two years and an elder for 25 years at the Skillman Church of Christ in Dallas.

Rushing is survived by his wife of 55 years, Imogene Mathes Rushing; and his son, Larry, minister of the church in Riverton, Wyo.

Gospel Advocate, October, 1994, page 58.

Russell, B. F.

It is with a sad heart that I record the death of our dear brother in Christ, B. F. Russell who was born April 29, 1846, died July 14, 1890. Age 44 years 2 months and 15 days. He lived a consistent and zealous member of the church of Christ until death. For four months he suffered much, but he bore his afflictions patiently and with Christian fortitude. I believe if I ever met a good man in life he was one. In him all the Christian graces seemed to shine. Our dear brother has lain down the cross to wear the crown, and join the angelic band and live with spirits redeemed in a more holy, happy clime. We sympathize with the bereaved relatives in their affliction, but we must remember that the Lord giveth and He taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord. We sorrow not as those who have no hope. Jesus says I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. May we all so live that we may dwell with our brother in the home beyond, where sickness and sorrow, parting and pain, danger and death, are felt and feared no more.

Mary Sutton., Masada, Tenn., May 26, 91.

Gospel Advocate, June 10, 1891, page 358.

Russell, Eva

With sadness of heart, I write of the death of my beloved sister, Eva, daughter of Wm. W. and Mary L. Russell. She was born Dec. 28, 1876, and died Nov. 28, 1896; was baptized into Christ when eleven years old. She did not fear death, but talked of it often to me, and, a little while before she died, said: Good By. She wanted us to sing for her the night she died. She suffered much, but was patient to the end. Meet me There was one of the songs she loved. She was loved by all that knew her. Our loss is her gain. She is gone from us; but if we are faithful to the end, we shall meet her in the sweet by and by, where God will wipe all tears from our eyes.

Sister., Smyrna, Ky.

Gospel Advocate, May 6, 1897, page 279.

Russell, James E.

Brother James E. Russell was born on April 13, 1824, and died on December 21, 1904. He obeyed the gospel in 1894. He was a married man, and he lived a pure, Christian life. He loved the cause of Christ, as every true Christian does. 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.) He spent most, if not all, of his life in Texas. May we help to cheer up the broken-hearted family. We hope to meet Brother Russell on the other side of Jordan. He now rests from his labors, and the good exemplified in his life will live in the hearts and lives of others.

Douglass Dunn.

Gospel Advocate, January 26, 1905, page 61.

Russell, O. J.

O. J. Russell, gospel preacher for over 40 years, passed from this life April 29. Funeral services were conducted at Tyler, Texas, May 1, with Charles Siburt, Earl Griffin and Hershel Dyer participating.

He was born at Grand Saline, Texas, July 3, 1924. While in his mid-teens, he was baptized into Christ by Willis Jernigan. He was married to Dorothy Priest and to them were born two daughters: Janet Stanford and Kathy Pigg.

O. J. preached locally for churches in Texas, Oklahoma, Oregon and Washington. He spent a number of years in the great Northwest and was the means of encouraging a goodly number of other preachers to labor in this area.

He was widely used in evangelistic efforts and did considerable writing for our various publications. He was a close student of the Bible and an able defender of the faith.

This writer became acquainted with O. J. when we were both students in Abilene Christian College. We became the closest of friends and often communicated and visited with each other over the years. His departure is a very personal loss to me. The brotherhood has lost a valiant soldier of the cross. These lines of Edwin Markham must surely express the feeling not only of myself but of so many others:

And when he fell in whirlwind,

He went down

As when a lordly cedar,

green with boughs,

Goes down with a great shout

upon the hills,

And leaves a lonesome place

against the sky.

Hershel Dyer., Church of Christ, Tenth and South Rockford, Tulsa, OK 74120-4696.

Gospel Advocate, June 6, 1985, page 348.

Russell, Robert Edward

On November 4, 1912, the death angel entered our happy home and claimed for its victim my dear husband, Robert Edward Russell. He was at the time of his death a little more than forty years old. He was married to Nora L. Short on January 26, 1896. Ten children were born to us, three of whom have gone on to that sweet home. He leaves a mother, four sisters, two brothers, and a host of other relatives and friends. He lay on his bed of affliction for three months and suffered untold misery, but bore it with patience and smiles. All that loving hearts and willing hands could do was done. It is hard to see the head of the family taken away and to see my poor little children deprived of a Fathers love, guidance, and protection, when we needed him with us. But the Lord Hath done all things well. Ed loved to read theGospel Advocate. We have taken it for seven years. He has been a strong believer in the Christian faith for years, but never confessed his faith in Christ until October 15, 1912. He made his confession on his bed and was carried to the water on a cot and buried with his Lord in baptism. Funeral services were conducted by Brother J. T. Daughaday, after which he was laid to rest in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, in sight of our now lonely home. I do hope and pray that I and his children may live faithful and enter in through the pearly gates, and that Ed will be the first one to meet us, and that we may be a reunited family forevermore, where there will be no more farewell words and sad good-byes spoken, and where God will wipe all tears away.

His Loving Wife.

Gospel Advocate, January 23, 1913, page 90.

Russell, Sallie J.

Sallie J. Russell died on the 31st of January 1891. She was born October 9, 1866 the daughter of N. C. and Nannie Gambill December 22, 1881, she was married to M. T. Russell. When only thirteen years old sister Sallie obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Bro. Gilbert at Richmond, and it was a matter of great joy to her that she accepted the Savior so young, that she might give more of her life to the service of God. But disease did not permit her long to do the work she was so well qualified to do. The fatal consumption seized her, and soon led her, though an unwilling, still a fearless subject of death. She left three children and her husband to feel the loss of a good mother and wife. For these mainly she desired to live that she might exercise such an influence over them as to lead them to Christ. This seemed to be her theme and purpose of life. During the last few months of her sickness she suffered much, but patiently. The writer never saw one bear misfortune and pain with more Christian fortitude, nor one that ever manifested a sweeter spirit toward her maker. Frequently she would say hopefully to those about her, that the Lord would not put more on her than she was able to bear; and if death must come she was not afraid to die; she knew in whom she trusted, and with such faith did she pass to her reward. One might easily guess that she was raised by Christian parents. These with four other children out-lived her, but it is not without hope.

F. S. Young.

Gospel Advocate, March 4, 1891, page 133.

Russell, Susan

Sister Susan Russell was born in 1829; was married the first time to William Thurman, in February, 1849, and the second time to A. H. Russell, in 1882; obeyed the gospel in 1877; and died on March 6, 1910, at Gurley, Ala. She leaves one lonely daughter, one sister in this country, and many other kindred and friends to mourn her death; but our loss his her eternal gain. She was laid to rest in Hayden Cemetery. Quite a number of old friends were at the burial. She is missed by all, and especially in her home, where no one can fill her vacant chair. No more can we hear her speak the sweet words of advice which she was always ready to give every one. She bore her suffering with patience, was conscious to the end, and passed away quietly. I would say to the bereaved daughter and sister: Weep not as those that have no hope, for we are assured that she is at rest; for blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. She is not dead, but sleepeth.

N. W. Cox., Gurley, Ala.

Gospel Advocate, May 5, 1910, page 566.

Russell, Travis David

Again our hearts are made sad by the departure of a friend and brother, Travis David Russell, who was born on March 11, 1896, and met his death on September 10, 1931, aged thirty-five years and six months. He was baptized into Christ in August, 1912, by Brother Robert Lee Craig. So far as we know, he lived a consistent, Christian life until his tragic death. He was employed as a section foreman at Silerton, Tenn. and while on duty was seriously injured internally when a fast-moving locomotive struck him as he attempted to remove his motor car from the rails. He was pinned between the two and crushed. He was rushed to Jackson hospital and lived five days. Brother Russell served in the World War two years, and, upon his return home in 1920, married Miss Ola Marshall on December 23. To this union four children were born. All except the oldest boy still survive. He was the son of L. C. and Laura Russell. Besides these, he leaves behind five brothers, four sisters, and a host of friends, to mourn their loss. He was a brother and a citizen, and as a loyal employee in his company none equaled him. His body was brought to the Reaves Cemetery, five miles north of Middleton, Tenn., for burial. Brother G. A. Dunn, of Dallas, Texas, spoke words of comfort at the grave, being engaged in a meeting at Middleton at the time.

Lillian Howell.

Gospel Advocate, December 3, 1931, page 1527.

Rushton, Mrs. S. E.

Sister S. E. Rushton departed this life on May 17, 1908. Aunt Belle, as she was called, was born on October 8, 1838; was baptized into Christ by Brother Huffman in September, 1833. She was left a widow with five small children in 1864, and, being poor in this worlds goods, she had a very hard struggle in those years immediately following the Civil War; but she fought the battles of life bravely. One of her sons joined the Baptist Church, and the other children are all members of the church of Christ. She was a faithful Christian unto death. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

W. J. Haynes.

Gospel Advocate, July 30, 1908, page 490.

Rust, Mary C.

Mary C. Rust, wife of Brother Tom Rust, died of consumption at her home near Allensville, Ky. The deceased obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Brethren Day and Streator about twenty-five years ago, and lived a firm believer in the faith up to her death. She leaves a husband and seven children to mourn their loss, but not as those that have no hope. May the sorrowing family be drawn nearer to the cross by this dispensation of Gods providence, and strive to meet their loved one in that realm where there shall be no more parting and sorrow, but peace and joy for evermore in the presence of the Lord.

R. C.

Gospel Advocate, April 6, 1905, page 218.

Ruth, William Elbert

William Elbert Ruth was born November 23, 1872, in Henderson County, Texas; departed this life June 18, 1937, at his home in Jack County, near Bryson, Texas. Having come to Jack County thirty-eight years ago, of course he was well known by the residents of this county. He obeyed the gospel at Bryson in 1926. His wife, Mrs. Emma Ruth, and the following children were present and mourned his passing: Mrs. Lizzie Keyser, of Bryson; Frank Ruth, of Weatherford, Texas; Fred Ruth and Mrs. Lorena Bohannon, both of Jacksboro, Texas. Another son, William, preceded his father in death almost four years. The funeral services and burial were at the Cottonwood Cemetery at Bryson. The writer endeavored to speak words of comfort and consolation to the loved ones and many friends who were gathered to mourn his going.

Choice L. Bryant.

Gospel Advocate, July 15, 1937, page 671.

Rutherford, Amanda Uphemy

Amanda Uphemy Rutherford, one of our faithful sisters, left us, to be with the Lord, on April 16, 1923. Sister Rutherford was born in Carroll County, Tenn., on October 10, 1844. She obeyed the gospel at Roans Creek, under the preaching of Brother Farrar, about forty-six years ago. She lived a devoted, faithful life until she was called up higher. She was married to R. M. Rutherford about forty-eight years ago. Her husband preceded her to the life beyond thirteen years. On her deathbed she said: I am as happy as I wish to be. A more consoling statement could not have been made by one in crossing over the river of death. Funeral services were held at the Methodist Church at Holladay, Tenn., and the body was laid to rest in the presence of a large number of sorrowing relatives and friends.

Bettie Whitefield.

Gospel Advocate, May 17, 1923, page 490.

Rutherford, Birdie Fulbright

On Tuesday afternoon, in Mount Vernon, Texas, the spirit of Sister J. L. Rutherford took its flight. The merchants closed their stores. No church in town was sufficient to accommodate the great crowd of sorrowing and sympathizing people, white and black. Three preachers took part in the sad, sweet servicesad because of her going and our loss, but sweet because she was ready and safe and saved with her loved ones gone before. Brother N. O. Ray read the opening words, Brother George Klingman followed, and the writer spoke last. My family and I had been so wonderfully blessed by this great woman and her true and faithful husband, her memory is sweet to me. She was a modern Dorcas. Had the coats and garments and the thousands other things she made and gave to the poor and needy, in the church and out of the church, to the orphan homes, etc., been brought, we would have had to move the great audience out of the tabernacle to make room for them. The latter part of the last chapter of Proverbs, read by Brother Ray, describes this woman. She loved the church, she loved her husband, she loved her children, and she loved her Lord. For threescore years and ten she lived in this earth; and the world is better by her having lived, and heaven is richer by her having died. She was a devoted mother, a faithful wife, a true friend. Early in life she entered the church of Christ, and she lived a consistent, devoted, consecrated, Christian life. The writer, following Brother C. C. Klingman in the work in Mount Vernon, for five years, with his family, felt the tender touch and enjoyed the hallowed influence of her beautiful Christian life. 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. Sister Rutherford was a liberal giver. She and her devoted husband gave much of their money to the Lord. Many churches and preachers and missions, both home and foreign, have felt their liberal benefactions. The Rutherford Hall at Thorp Spring is among the last of her special gifts, Birdie Fulbright was born in Red River County, Texas, on September 3, 1855, and was a student in the girls boarding school in Mount Vernon when she met John L. Rutherford, then a young merchant in Mount Vernon. They were married on December 17, 1874, and since that time have lived there and prospered in every way. She leaves, besides her devoted husband, two sons, Henry P. Rutherford, of Fort Worth, and G. W. Rutherford, of Mount Vernon. One daughter, Pet, passed away some years ago just as she was entering womanhood; and the youngest son, John, a princely fellow, died about ten years ago. Three grandchildren are also left.

Gospel Advocate, February 17, 1927, page 162.

Rutherford, Frances Elizabeth

Mrs. A. C. Rutherford, whose maiden name was Frances Elizabeth Williams, was born in Allen County, Kentucky, February 17, 1851. On October 29, 1867, she was married to Alexander Campbell Rutherford, at Russellville, Ky. She departed this life at Anthony, Kan., January 4, 1931, falling short by only forty-four days of reaching the mark of fourscore years of age. Grandfather Rutherford preceded grandmother to the better country by seven years. Also, three children died in earlier life. The seven surviving children are: J. W. Rutherford, Pomona, Calif.; A. E. Rutherford, Anthony, Kan.; M. B. Rutherford, Chicago, Ill.; C. H. Rutherford, San Diego, Calif.; H. E. Rutherford, Anthony, Kan.; Mrs. Bessie Redding, Madison, Kan.; and H. Ray Rutherford, Anthony, Kan. In her tender years grandmother became a Christian, and she lived an exemplary life to the end. She was ever ready to minister to the needy and to a worthy cause. Her will revealed that she made generous provision for Christian enterprises in America and in other parts of the world as well. She was always ready to give a reason for her hope and to speak a word of counsel to her fellow pilgrims in the way of life. Her memory constitutes an incomparable heritage to those who loved her. Because of my marriage with her granddaughter, grandmother expressed to me and to others her desire that I conduct her last service. Also, Brother J. Oakley Murphy, of Cordell, Okla., who had greatly endeared himself to grandmother and to the family, assisted in the services. Brother Burgess, of the First Christian Church, Anthony, Kan., also assisted. Four sons and two nephews served as pallbearers. The body was laid to rest in Spring Grove Cemetery in the family lot. The services were attended by a large concourse of friends and neighbors. The floral offerings were beautiful and numerous. Readers of the Gospel Advocate will be interested in knowing that for about fifty years the Gospel Advocate, without a break, came to the Rutherford home. The immediate cause of grandmothers death was pneumonia. When informed by her physicianfour years he had been under the pledge to warn her if he saw the end of her days approachingthat she might not recover, she replied, I know that my Redeemer liveth, and expressed her entire willingness to go. She had often prayed for a peaceful passing, and her prayers in this particular were abundantly answered. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

C. A. Norred.

Gospel Advocate, January 22, 1931, page 92.

Rutherford, James M.

James M. Rutherford was born December 13, 1849; passed June 28, 1939. Nearly ninety, he had been an elder of the church at Schochoh, Ky., for better than forty years. He had been a member of the church for about sixty-five years, having first been a Baptist, and being converted under the preaching of E. G. Sewell. For more than fifty years he was a reader of the Gospel Advocate. He is survived by his wife, now eighty-five, three daughters (Mrs. W. T. McInteer, Mrs. Paul Holloway, and Mrs. W. C. Groves, all of Franklin, Ky.), and a son (Homer N. Rutherford, Lexington, Ky.). His kindliness and warm-heartedness endeared him to all in his section of Simpson County, and his home near Franklin was a symbol of hospitality. Funeral services were conducted by H. L. Olmstead, Gallatin, Tenn.; M. Kurfees Pullias, Franklin, Ky.; and the writer, after which the body was interred in a family cemetery within a mile of where he had lived.

James D. Groves., Toledo, Ohio.

Gospel Advocate, October 26, 1939, page 1023.

Rutherford, Lauvenia

Lauvenia Rutherford, the subject of this brief sketch was born in Jefferson county, Ala., in 1833. With her parents removed to Tippah county, Miss., when she was about ten years of age. Was married to Bro. G. S. Rutherford in 1850, was married to Jesus, becoming a member of his body in 1866, of which she lived a faithful member until death relieve her of lifes burdens, on the 16th of April 1887 in the 54th year of her age.

Sister Rutherfords last illness was short and her sufferings were very severe, but she bore them with a fortitude born of trust in God. She seemed to realize that the time had arrived for her to go home. The only pressing solicitude seemed to be for the future of her little daughter who was just eleven years old the day her mother died. Her last words spoken were concerning little Annie and doubtless as the prayer of the body died away and the Spirit was disrobed of morality, the immortalized spirituality of our dear sister took up the refrain and swelled the finis of that last prayer on earth in the chorus of the redeemed. If the spirits of our loved ones who have gone before are permitted to look upon the lives of their sorrowing friends surely sympathy will be awarded by that purified throng, and seeing that Jesus is the best of all friends we know he sees, he cares, he wept for us, was tempted in all respects like as we. And though our dear sister is taken from us, she has only gone before, departed to be with Christ which is far better.

To the sorrowing husband I would say remember her pure example, and be won to eternal life by the spotless purity of her life and in a few short years at most you will meet her to part no more. To her children I would say emulate her life and example. You were blessed in having such a mother, live like she lived and you will be honored here and happy hereafter.

Our sister will be missed, missed at home, missed at the bedside of the afflicted, missed by her brethren and sisters in the Lord, missed by husband and children, and missed, oh! So sadly missed by the dear old mother who still lingers on times tempest-beaten shore, for she was a favorite of all the family, and especially did her mother lean upon her for comfort in her declining years, but weep not dear aunt, in a few short years you and I will cross over the river and rest under the shade where we will part from loved ones againnevermore.

C., Hickory Flat, Miss.

Gospel Advocate, May 11, 1887, page 302.

Rutherford, Myrtle

Sister Myrtle Rutherford, daughter of Brother and Sister A. C. Rutherford, of Anthony, Kan., was born in Logan County, Ky., May 4, 1871. She obeyed the gospel in October, 1884, at an age when her spirit and life were easily fashioned after the life of the loving Savior. She came to Kansas with her parents in March, 1885; she died in Chicago, June 15, 1896, being twenty-five years, one month, and eleven days old. The funeral services were conducted by the writer in the presence of a large assembly of relatives and friends. The body was interred in the cemetery at Anthony, Kan. During the last two years she has suffered intensely at intervals, but was resigned to the will of the Lord. I have been intimately associated with the family for a few years. She had visited in our home, and we had learned to love her dearly. The last time that I saw her she thought she was about restored to health, and promised to visit us soon. She always brightened the home in which she lived or visited. She was devoted and obedient as a daughter, affectionate as a friend, admired and loved most by those who knew her best. Her pure and sweet spirit exerted an influence over all with whom she associated. She held evil in contempt, and condemned it by word and deed. Her sweet voice in song, in the home and public worship, will be much missed; but one more voice is added to the great chorus above. Her place in the church work is vacated, but she can realize the reward. She loved, adored, and faithfully served the Master. We will miss her cheerful countenance, her affectionate smiles, encouraging words, and purifying influence. Her relatives and friends are sorely bereaved, but they weep not as those who have no hope. Her spirit basks in the sunshine of heavens immortal splendor and beckons the weeping ones to come on to enjoy the sweet peace and rest of the celestial realm. May Heavens rich blessings rest upon the broken-hearted that are left to wend their way through this troublesome sphere.

D. T. Broadus., Belle Plaine, Kan.

Gospel Advocate, July 16, 1896, page 464.

Rutherford, Tabitha

Died in the lord, Nov. 9, 1895, Sister Tabitha Rutherford, widow of the late T. V. Rutherford, at her home in Simpson County, Ky. She was born in the same county and state, Dec. 28, 1809, and was therefore nearly 86 years old at her death. She was first a member of the Baptist Church, but over twenty years ago she and her husband united with the church of Christ, at Antioch, Ky., of which she remained a consistent member till her long and useful life closed. She and Brother Rutherford lived over fifty years together, leading a happy and useful life as husband and wife. They raised five children, all of whom are still living, as I learn, and are all members of the church of Christ. She was a faithful, devoted wife, an affectionate mother, a good neighbor, and an earnest member of the church. Her husband had preceded her nearly two years, and now she has gone to join him in a better home, where sad partings will be known no more. She will be greatly missed by her children and by the congregation. But both of them had reached a ripe old age, having lived much longer than is the usual lot of men and women to live on this earth. Let their children and friends strive to live as Christians, and prepare to meet their loved ones in a home where sorrows and sufferings are known no more.

E. G. S.

Gospel Advocate, December 12, 1895, page 796.

Rutherford, Tommie

Our dear old brother, Uncle Tommie Rutherford, of Schochoh, Ky., quietly threw off his earthly tabernacle Jan. 28, 1894, and winged his flight, we all sincerely trust, to fields elysian. He lived to a ripe old agesomething over 83 years. He was helped out of darkness into light by the preaching of Elder E. G. Sewell. He was an ardent lover of the church from the day of his obedience until the day of his death. His married life lasted nearly fifty-three years. The death of this godly man severed the golden cord which has bound two loving hearts so long. But oh how delightful to think that the reunion will soon take placethat God will weld the golden cord next time too strong to ever be rebroken! He leaves behind a broken-hearted wife, eight children, forty grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren.

M. H. Northcross.

Gospel Advocate, March 22, 1894, page 182.

Rutledge, D. H.

In the early morning of November 28, 1907, while returning from the milk lot, Brother D. H. Rutledge threw up his hand, exclaimed, O Lord! and by his wifes side fell dead. The next day I was called to Midlothian to conduct the funeral services. His good, Christian wife, one daughter, and two sons survive him. They are all Christians in good standing, Brother Herman Rutledge being a preacher and a teacher in the public school at Maypearl. Brother Rutledge was born in Franklin County, Tenn. He has been living at Wyatt, Texas, for a number of years, as a prosperous farmer. All of his family preceded him into the church. Five years ago, under Brother F. L. Youngs preaching, he became a child of God. He has ever been faithful and active in the church. As elder at Wyatt, he was the main pillar of the congregation. Surely he will be missed. The church will miss his ennobling influence; but, above all, his family will miss his cheerful and beneficent association. May God bless the saddened home and comfort the aching, bleeding hearts. The reunion will be over yonder, where no sorrow ever comes.

James L. German, Jr.

Gospel Advocate, December 12, 1907, page 798.

Ryan, George T.

One of the greatest losses ever sustained by the congregation at Schochoh, Ky., was that occasioned by the death of George T. Ryan on September 29, 1914. Brother Ryan was born at Barren Plains, Tenn., on May 7, 1835. Early in life he became a member of the body of Christ, and the greater part of his life served faithfully as an elder of the Antioch congregation, in Logan County, Ky. No man in the community was more widely known or more highly respected than he. He was never, however, before the public in any capacity, save that of elder of the church. The welfare of the church and the salvation of souls were the ruling passions of his life. He was the father of eight children who reached maturity, all of whom were led to become members of the church, and also many of his grandchildren. The last days of his life during his sickness were spent, as had been his other days, in the study of Gods word, meditation thereon, and in conversation with friends and relatives concerning the things which pertain unto the kingdom of God. Death held no terrors for him. He was a model citizen, husband, and father; a faithful Christian, an efficient elder, a wise counselor, and possessed the spirit of kindness and meekness. He was a friend of missions and a father to young preachers. One of the largest congregations which ever gathered in this country came together to pay their last tribute of love and respect. Many brethren from other congregations and other counties were present. The services were conducted by the writer, assisted by Brother R. H. Boll. The text used for the occasion was Heb. 13:7: Remember them that had the rule over you, men that spoke unto you the word of God; and considering the issue of their life, imitate their faith.

H. L. Olmstead.

Gospel Advocate, February 4, 1915, page 115.

Ryan, Millie

Another mother in Israel has fallen upon Zions battlefield, in the shadow of the cross, upon the shield of faith, and the army of the Lord is made to mourn the loss of our aged and beloved Sister Millie Ryan, who was born Jan. 9, 1817, and departed this life May 8, 1894, being at the time of death 77 years, 3 months, and 29 days old. She had been enlisted with the army of the faithful for about fifty years. The last Lords day of her existence, which was the first Lords day in May, she was at her post of duty at Antioch, Logan county, hail and happy. They say she is dead, dead, dead! To her death was the crown of life. The shroud, the mattock, and the grave, the deep, damp vault, the darkness, and the worm, only have to do with the house of clay in which she lived. Death is only a terror behind the veil. Unmasked, it shows a friendly face. Gods promise is then: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. It has been beautifully said: With the tree of mortality it is ever fall time, and deaths cold, icy hand is ever shaking down the withering leaves, but the trunk retains its life, and from its branches fruit is gathered. Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them. Peaceful be her silent slumber until the resurrection morn. Blessed are they that do his commandments that they may have right to the tree of life, and pray enter in through the gates into the city.

R. W. Norwood.

Gospel Advocate, July 12, 1894, page 438.

Ryan, Sarah Dawson

Death has again visited the home of Brother George Ryan, senior elder of the church at Schochoh, Ky., this time to take away his wife, thus leaving Brother Ryan companionless in his declining years. The deceased was in her sixty-fourth year at the time of her death, which was very sudden and unexpected, resulting from heart failure. Besides her husband, she leaves two daughters, several stepchildren, sisters, brothers, and grandchildren, to mourn her loss. Prior to her marriage she was Miss Sarah Dawson, and quite early in life she became a member of Christs body, and died with the Christians hope, having lived faithful to her Savior; hence, for her to die is gain. She was a woman of strong convictions, simple in manner, very candid in what she said, and some who knew her best loved her most. She will be greatly missed in the church, the community, and the home; yet all feel that to depart and be with Christ is far better for her and all who are prepared to meet God. The large audience of sorrowing friends a relatives to whom the writer of these lines spoke words of comfort and warning was evidence of the high esteem in which she was held by all who knew her.

H. L. Olmstead., Franklin, Ky.

Gospel Advocate, November 30, 1911, page 1398.

Ryenrson, William H.

William H. Ryenrson was born August 9, 1851; died May 29, 1935. For a number of years he lived in Atticra, Kan. Two of five children survive (V. A. Ryenrson, of Atticra, Kan., and Mrs. J. R. Chadwick, of Sedan, N. M., with whom he had made his home for a number of years). His wife passed on to her reward February 10, 1900. Both he and his wife were members of the Baptist church until December 1895, when both obeyed the gospel, living faithfully until death. Had Brother Ryenrson lived until August, he would have been eighty-four years old. He leaves, beside his two children, eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and a host of friends. Services were conducted at Sedan by the writer. The body was sent to his old home in Atticra, Kan., for burial.

H. Earl Smith., Slayton, N. M.

Gospel Advocate, June 20, 1935, page 598.

Ryland, L. L.

Here at Odessa, Mo., we mourn the passing of Brother L. L. Ryland. An elder of the church for 48 years, he died on August 14 at the age of ninety-four years and twenty-nine days. In December of last year, he was still vigorous and alert, caring for himself, going to church, and gardening; but his last days were spent in the New Haven nursing home here. Three or four days before his death, he slipped into a comatose state and from there God led him home. I am privileged to have known him. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

Bill E. Williams.

Gospel Advocate, September 28, 1978, page 620.

Rains, Jeanne Evelyn Buck

Jeanne Evelyn Buck Rains, 75, died June 7.

Mrs. Rains was a lifelong member of the church of Christ and a devoted Sunday school teacher.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Thomas H. Rains; children, Deborah Bumbalough of Madison, Drusilla Rains of Spring Hill, Thomas David Rains of Goodlettsville, Melanie Martin of Nashville, and Michael Rains of Collierville; a sister, Mary Menees of Madison; a brother, Claude Buck Jr. of Madison; 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Interment was at the Spring Hill Cemetery in Madison.

Madison, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, July, 2005, page 68.

Randolph, Mary Elizabeth

Mary Elizabeth Dorris was born June 11, 1869, the daughter of Martha and Ira Dorris. She was married to Lewis H. Randolph, February 27, 1896, and departed this life May 3, 1933. To this union were born four sons and one daughter. In early life she obeyed the gospel, and lived consistent to its teachings until death. Having died in the Lord, she had the promise of a rest that remains unto the people of God. Brother and Sister Randolph and their children have been instrumental in establishing two churches of Christ in Ballard County. Brother Randolph passed on to his reward August 16, 1931, leaving his life-long companion at the old home with her children near her. She spent her last days with a surviving faith in her blessed Lord. I would say to the bereaved, Weep not as those who have no hope; and my prayers shall ever be with you that you may live faithful and let the memory of father and mother live on and on in your lives. A mothers love is indeed the golden link that binds youth to age. The funeral services were conducted by I. A. Douthitt and Joe Morris, assisted by the writer.

Robert B. McGregor.

Gospel Advocate, June 29, 1933, page 623.

Ranicar, Rowland

Rowland Ranicar, like the good soldier of Christ which he was, died at the front. Death came without warning as he was standing before a large gathering in a city park at Oakland, Calif., during an afternoon service on Sunday, March 22, 1936. Brother Ranicar was one of the visitors who had been asked to make a speech during the last great Sunday service of Brother Brewers Berkeley meeting. His joy must have been unbounded as he participated actively in a meeting which he had traveled nearly one thousand miles to attend. As he was telling of his voyage from his native England to this country (about 1905), in company with two unbelievers who mocked religion, he said, I never failed to kneel in prayerthen he fell in death. His untimely death brought his joyous vacation at Berkeley to a tragic close, and brought sorrow to a host of friends, old and new. Yet we believe that if God had given our beloved brother a chance to choose the way in which he should leave this world, his choice would not have been far different. It was fitting that he should die in the service of the Lord whom he loved so well.

Rowland Ranicar was born in Manchester, England, February 4, 1881. His early education was received in the schools of stern English schoolmasters. In young manhood he entered the Church of England, and manifested that zeal for truth and righteousness which characterized him throughout life. With ministers and welfare workers he frequently visited the slums of London, helping the unfortunate and degenerate to rise to a better life. These early contacts with the victims of sin and vice made him a friend to the unfortunate, but the enemy of liquor and all other evils. When Brother Ranicar came to Eastern Canada (1905), he continued active in the Anglican Church until he met members of the church of Christ, who urged him to examine the teaching of the two churches in the light of New Testament revelation. Since he was an ardent truth seeker, he willingly agreed to restudy his Bible. His study convinced him that the church of Christ is the true church, and he gladly turned from his error. Brethren, observing his earnestness and ability, encouraged him to attend the Beamsville (Ont.) Bible School. There he distinguished himself as an able Bible student, memorizing large portions of the sacred text, which he kept fresh and ready until death. After two terms in the Bible school, Brother Ranicar preached the gospel in many destitute places, in schoolhouses, and homes, while he supported himself at other work. At all times he strove to make his life the strongest affirmation of Christs teaching.

In 1916, Brother Ranicar was married to Miss Maud Livingstone, of Ontario. To this union was born a son, Stuart, only surviving child of the deceased. The mother died in 1919.

Bother Ranicar married Miss Ella Hoover in 1923, and in that year removed to Vancouver, B. C. Then in 1924 the family came to Seattle, where Brother Ranicar had been steadily employed since that time. In the church here Brother Ranicar was always a pillar of strength. He was a worthy, dependable teacher and leader. Hospitality, generosity, and sincerity were among his chief virtues. He gave freely of his strength and substance to assist the church and his brethren. On many occasions he gave generously to friends in need, who, returning later to repay the money, would hear him exclaim: What! Would you rob me of my blessings? If I merely lent you that money, what reward would I have? If you no longer need it, then pass it on to some one else in need, but dont rob me of my blessing! That was the noble spirit of this true soldier of Christ. May it ever inspire those who cherish his memory.

Arthur Graham, of San Francisco, assisted the writer in conducting funeral services at Seattle, March 25. The deceased is survived by his beloved wife, Ella; a son, Stuart; a sister, Eliza Benson, of Canada; and a brother, Thomas, of England.

Herman O. Wilson.

Gospel Advocate, April 16, 1936, page 379.

Ray, Allen Johnson, Jr.

In the untimely death of Allen Ray, Administrator of Lakeshore Home for the past thirteen years, his family, Lakeshore Home, the church and the community suffered a severe loss.

He leaves a beloved wife, Helen, a daughter, Emily, mother Mrs. Camille Ray, a brother Tyler Ray and two sisters, Mrs. Marie Ray Himes, Mrs. Ada Brown and the entire Lakeshore family to mourn his passing.

Brother Ray suffered a heart attack, was put into intensive care at the Baptist Hospital where he showed some improvement but on Thursday May 10th he suffered a relapse and passed away.

In Brother Ray, or Allen as everybody called him, Lakeshore Directors found the right man for the right place at the right time. He fitted into the operation and put his heart into the work. He loved Lakeshore, every guest there and the ideal which he cherished was to bring comfort and sunshine and make life happier for all.

He was a man of many talents. He knew how to handle people to get the best out of them: the personnel, the suppliers, maintenance people, guests and visitors.

There are so many constructive things he did it is not possible in this space to recount them all. One thing stands out. Three years ago he conceived the idea that Lakeshore guests should enjoy some of the same diversions his own family would, by getting to take trips to places of interest: consequently, with the help of the Lakeshore Ladies Auxiliary a new modern air conditioned bus was purchased. It was Allens delight to conduct bus trips as driver, conductor, and chaperon to many historic sites and places of interest, an unforgettable experience for Lakeshore guests.

Allen had the happy facility to be able to fit into almost any situation. He conducted church services for various congregations. He visited guests in hospitals and preached many funerals as well as counseled them on their business affairs. Lakeshore Home was his consuming thought: how to make it serve better the purpose for which it was built. He always admonished people to pray for Lakeshore and our work here.

At this time Lakeshore is in the midst of a major expansion. A new third floor is being completed on the West Building to accommodate additional guests. A new facility in the Donelson Area, LakeshoreHartland is on the drawing boards. This project is made possible, in part, by the generosity of the Donelson church of Christ. Allen was in the midst of all these plans. It is indeed difficult to carry on without his help and wise guidance. The Lords work must go on. Someone said the Lord above must need good men for he called Allen to help him there. We miss Allen Ray so much but he will live on in the hearts of all those who love Lakeshore and who work for its further completion. An Allen Ray memorial fund has been set up at Lakeshore in memory of our beloved Allen. (Picture included)

Directors of Lakeshore Home.

Gospel Advocate, July 26, 1979, page 476.

Reeder, Malissa Ann

Malissa Ann Campbell was born on June 1, 1855; was married to Addison Reeder on March 1, 1880; obeyed the gospel at the age of seventeen at Rock Hill, Rutherford County, Tenn., and died on October 24, 1908. It was my pleasure to know Sister Reeder, and in all the relations of lifeas wife, mother, friend, and Christianshe did well her part. She loved the assembly of the saints, and, when her health would permit, she was in her seat at the Lords-day service, and by her Christian example her loved ones are members of the body of Christ. May the Lord comfort them, and may they follow her example.

W. B. Sanders.

Gospel Advocate, November 19, 1908, page 746.

Reid, Rebecca

Departed this life on Sunday June 10, 1888, sister Rebecca Reidaged 23 years and 25 days, the wife of James B. Reid. The deceased was quite young when she obeyed the gospel under the preaching of Bro. Clifton Allen. In the day of her youth she had remembered her Creator and lived a consistent member. She had been a sufferer for several months previous to her death, but bore her illness with fortitude. She was fully resigned to the will of the Lord. Sister Rebecca left an evidence of that hope of a blessed immortality beyond the grave. It was hard indeed to the grief-stricken family to give up this loved member, but I would bid them to bow in humble submission to his divine will in the full assurance that he doeth all things well.

J. A. Wells.

Gospel Advocate, July 4, 1888, page 11.

Rhodes, Letitia Jane

Letitia Jane Stevenson was born on June 30, 1856, in Webster County, Mo., being the eldest of ten children. On November 29, 1884, she became the wife of John J. Rhodes. No children were born to this union; but she has reared a number of children from childhood and one from infancy. At the early age of sixteen years she was converted and united with the Panther Valley Methodist Church. She lived a member of this congregation until October 2, 1904, when she was baptized into the church of Christ and has lived devoted to the cause. She was a school-teacher for eighteen years. She lived a consistent, Christian life. Every one who knew her loved her, for she was a friend to all. She passed from this life on September 28, 1914. She is survived by her husband, her adopted daughter (Goldie), her mother, three brothers, three sisters, and a number of relatives. The writer spoke to a large audience at her funeral.

O. L. Hardin.

Gospel Advocate, December 10, 1914, page 1306.

Rickard, Frances W.

Frances W. Rickard died Dec. 24, 2003.

Mrs. Rickard taught Bible classes for all ages, from young children to ladies. She also spoke at ladies retreats and seminars.

She was a member of the Greenbriar Church of Christ in Atlanta for 31 years and was a member of the Fayetteville, Ga., congregation at the time of her death.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, James; two daughters, Anne Hayes and Susan Mayfield; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Fayetteville, GA.

Gospel Advocate, June, 2004, page 41.

Ritchie, Aggie

Sister Aggie Ritchie fell asleep in Jesus, at our home near Evening Shade, Ark., January 2, 1896. I believe the death angel found her ready. She was afflicted with that fatal disease, consumption. Many times she expressed her willingness to go and be with Jesus. She was born February 1, 1871, obeyed the gospel at the age of 13, and lived a faithful member till her death. Dear Aggie, our home is lonely without you, but the thought that you are at rest consoles us, and the blessed hope of a happy meeting where parting never comes.

Ruth., Cousin.

Gospel Advocate, February 27, 1896, page 140.

Rix, Mary Virginia

Mary Virginia Jenny Rix, 48, died April 19.

She was a faithful member of the Monmouth Church of Christ where her husband, Charles, serves as minister. She was involved in teaching, community outreach and serving ministries of the church.

She is survived by her husband; a son, Nathan K. of Tinton Falls; a daughter, Mary Abigail Rix of Tinton Falls; her parents, John and Virginia Green Alley of Springfield, Mo.; a brother, David Alley of St. Paul, Minn.; and a sister, Becky Holton of York, Neb.

Tinton Falls, N.J.

Gospel Advocate, July, 2005, page 68.

Roberson, Charles Heber, Sr.

Charles Heber Roberson, Sr., age seventy-four, one of the founders and first faculty members of Abilene Christian College, died at the family residence, 1618 College Drive, at 3 A.M., Monday, March 30. He had been ill a year and confined to bed the past month. Funeral services were held Wednesday, April 1, in the College church of Christ in Abilene, with Don H. Morris in charge. Burial was in the family plot at Cedar Hill Cemetery. Survivors are the wife; two daughters, Mrs. John W. Holton, of Washington, D. C., and Mrs. Paul Rotenberry, of Searcy, Ark.; two sons, James A. Roberson of Abilene, and Charles H. Roberson, Jr., of Anson; six grandchildren; one brother, H. Leland Roberson, of Fort Walton, Fla.; one aunt, Mrs. Emma Finley of Marshall; and two cousins, Dr. John A. Roberson of Levelland and Chesley Roberson, of Ostella, Tenn. Seven children were born to the Robersons, but two died in infancy at Terrell and a son, Henry, was killed while serving as a pilot during World War II. Brother Roberson was born February 28, 1879, at Robersonville, N. C., the old family home. He was the son of Betty Bullock and James Baker Roberson. Early in his life the family moved to Tennessee, where he received part of his public school education. Later he attended Georgia Robertson Christian College, now Freed-Hardeman College, Henderson, Tenn., receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1901 and his Master of Arts in 1902 with a major in Greek and Latin. During the next four years he taught in the public schools of Tennessee. In the fall of 1906 when Abilene Christian College was opened, Brother Roberson was one of the first faculty members. He had spent the summer before traveling over Texas with then President A. B. Barret, trying to arouse support and interest in the new school they expected to establish. When the doors of the school opened in the fall there ware about one hundred students and nine teachers. For forty-five years Brother Roberson was closely related to the development of Christian colleges, during which time he had a vital part in starting and developing five of them. After teaching two years in Childers Classical Institute, the original name of Abilene Christian College, he moved to Southwestern Christian College at Denton. The school closed its doors in 1909. This same year, again joining hands with A. B. Barret, he opened Clebarro Christian College at Cleburne. This school struggled financially about eight years and with the beginning of World War I it went out of business. Brother Roberson then taught one term in Thorp Spring Christian College, until he decided to enter school again. In 1918 he entered the Graduate School of Texas Christian University, and while working on an advanced degree he also taught physics and chemistry in the university. In 1919 he entered upon his work as professor of Bible in the University of Texas Bible Chair maintained by churches of Christ. For nine years he worked in Austin and took all the Greek and Hebrew courses the university then offered. He also taught some classes in mathematics in the university during this period. In 1928 Brother Roberson moved to Terrell to teach in Texas Christian College. This school had been moved to Terrell from Thorp Spring and its name changed, but due to the depression years it finally had to close its doors. Once more Brother Roberson joined an old associate, James F. Cox, then president of Abilene Christian College, on the Abilene campus. He was made head of the Bible Department in 1932, a position he held until his retirement in 1951, Brother Roberson was not only busy through the years in teaching, but also in writing and doing research in religious fields. He is the author of many books and pamphlets, but perhaps his best known work is the book entitled What Jesus Taught, published in 1930. Most recently he had been engaged in research into the meaning and derivation of the word psallo. Among other books he authored were Bible Versus Modernism and Studies in Revelation. Brother Roberson was married in 1909 to Katherine Moyers, of Ferris, Texas. He entered the ministry more than forty years ago and had been active in the church many years prior to that. He held his first meeting in 1908 in Bell County, Texas. He was never a regular minister of a congregation. His preaching was mostly by appointment. At one time or another he had spoken in most of the states of the United States. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Abilene Christian College in 1940.

Walter E. Burch.

Gospel Advocate, May 7, 1953, page 285.

Robinson, Carl B., Sr.

Carl B. Robinson Sr., 86, died Feb. 6.

Robinson served in many congregations across Tennessee. He was a World War II Veteran and graduate of Abilene Christian University and Peabody College. Robinson was also one of the founding members of Youth Encouragement Services and Nashville Prison Ministries. He served as the Hospital Visitation Coordinator for the Crieve Hall congregation and as a missionary in Ivory Coast, Africa, from 1972-74.

Robinson was preceded in death by his wife, Frankie; his daughter, Juanita Conway; his son, Carl B. Robinson Jr., eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Nashville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, May, 2006, page 41.

Robison, Sarah Ruth Baker

Sarah Ruth Baker Robison, 74, died Feb. 19.

Robison was born Oct. 6, 1930, in Hickman County, Tenn. She was a preachers wife for more than 50 years and served in churches of Christ in Alabama, Texas, Arkansas and Hong Kong.

She served as a dorm mother at Harding University for five years.

She is survived by her husband, Douglas; two sons, David, of Newport, Ark., and Paul, of York, Neb.; one daughter, Kathy, of Bryant, Ark.; a sister, Emma Walker, of Eddyville, Ky.; and seven grandchildren.

Searcy, Ark.

Gospel Advocate, June, 2005, page 41.

Rogers, Mrs. Jordan H.

On Lords day at 2:40 A.M., death came to my family and took away my beloved wife. We had been married a little over twelve years. I ask the prayers of the brethren and sisters that the Lord will be with me in my deep sorrows. She obeyed the gospel when quite a girl and continued a soldier until death.

Just a while before her death, she looked at me and said she wanted to lean her head on Jesus and breathe her life out sweetly there, leaving me to battle with the dark and crafty foe.

Jordan H. Rogers., Ocala, Fla., May 10, 1887.

Gospel Advocate, May 25, 1887, page 335.

Rogers, Paul

Paul Rogers, 70, died Jan. 6.

Rogers was minister for the Centerville Church of Christ for 48 years, during which time the congregations membership increased from 250 to 800. The congregation also greatly expanded its out-reach ministries during that time.

Rogers received his bachelors degree from Lipscomb University and his masters degree from Harding University. He also served on Lipscombs board of directors from 1986 to 2003.

Rogers preaches in several countries, including India and behind the Iron Curtain. He authored 10 books and booklets and organized the annual Middle Tennessee Preachers Forum.

He was honored many times, including Harding Graduate Schools Alumnus of the Year award in 1975 and Lipscomb Universitys Alumnus of the Decade in 1982, and as one of Gospel Advocates 100 Trailblazers of the 20th century. He also received the Diakonia award for 50 years of preaching in 2002 and, with his wife, Lipscomb Universitys Barnabas Award.

Rogers is survived by is wife of 49 years, Judy Johns Rogers; two sons, Larry and David; two daughters, Susan Harber and Emily Webber; two sisters, Madelyn Poole and Jeannette Lowe; and seven grandchildren.

Centerville, Tenn.

Gospel Advocate, February, 2005, page 41.