Lauderdale County, Alabama

B. T. ALLEN DEAD (Contributed May 2005 by Elizabeth Claire Moore; Source: July 25, 1923, Florence Times)

Arkdell, Ala July 25, 1923 B. T. (Blue) Allen, an old Confederate Soldier, passed away yesterday. If Blue had lived until the 26th, he would of been 88 years, and one month old. But few men went through as many rough and tumbles in the Civil War as Blue Allen did. At the battle and surrender of Ft. Donelson rather than go to prison, on as cold a day as ever swept over Dixeland, Blue plunged into the Cumberland River and made his escape swimming to the other shore, through floating ice. That night he slept in a smoke-house with a sack of salt for a pillow, and with wet clothes. Now Blue is gone, he lived a life of the plain and simple annals of the poor and as he often expressed himself, was open in the front, spoke what he thought without reserve, and if he owed you $1.00 or $100.00 , you got it. He was a member of the Christian Church and will be layed today in the Wright graveyard by the side of his old faithful wife. He leaves several 
sons and daughters, to mourn their paternal loss. So Blue has passed into history and crossed the river to the other side from which no traveler who went that way has ever returned. And now for Blue the blazeing hearth will burn no more, nor busy house-wife ply her care. Nor Grand Children climb their Grandfathers knee. Blue is gone and we who live today must go, for die we will and die we must, for we are the same as our fathers and mothers have been. We see the same sun, we drink the same stream that our fathers and mothers did and run the same course they have run.  A FRIEND

 

Death at Cloverdale (contributed by G. Kelley; Source: The Florence Times, Friday, 22 Apr 1898)
Mr. Samuel P. Anderson, a prominent citizen of the Cloverdale neighborhood, brother of Mr. Hinkle Anderson, died at 2 o’clock on Saturday afternoon last, after a lingering sickness of about three months. His disease was a bronchial and lung trouble. He was about 36 years old and leaves a wife and four children. The interment took place at Chapel on Sunday to the presence of one of the largest congregations ever assembled at that church, the funeral being conducted by Revs. Smith and Rice.  Mr. Anderson was one of the active and useful citizens in his community, and his loss will be severely felt. He was a steward in the Methodist church and a zealous member of that great body of Christians. He bereaved family have the sincere sympathy of a large circle of friends.

 

DEATHS (Contributed by G. Kelley; Source: The Florence Times, Friday, 15 Mar 1907)
The Times last week briefly mentioned the death of our well known citizen, Mr. John A. Anderson, which occurred o the 7th at his home on the Hood plantation. Mr. Anderson was one of our best citizens, a good man, deserving and having the esteem and respect of all who knew him, and in his death there were general expression of sorrow at his departure for that “bourne whence no traveler returns.” Mr. Anderson leaves a wife and five children: Mrs. J. T. Darby of Burcham Mills, and William W., Henry C., Calvin P., and Lee Anderson. The interment took take [sic] place at Wesley Chapel, the funeral being conducted by Rev Mr. Harris.

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HENRY ANDERSON DROWNED. Former Florence Man Meets Sudden Death in Florida. (Contributed by G. Kelley; Source: The Florence Times, Friday, 15 May 1914, p. 4)
Henry C. Anderson, a former citizen of Florence, was drowned at Boca Grande, Florida, a few days ago, according to a telegram received here Wednesday by Mr. C. W. Ashcraft. Mr. Anderson’s home here was identified by a letter signed by Mr. Ashcraft which was found on his body. He was in the employ of the Tampa Dredging Company, and his life was largely spent on the water. The body was interred in Florida. Mr. Anderson and his family moved to Florida about two years ago, but the family returned here about a year ago because that climate was unfavorable to their health. He remained there, while his family resided here. He is survived by his wife and seven children. He leaves also three brothers and a sister, Mrs. Jesse Darby and Will and Lee Anderson of this county and Calvin Anderson of Oklahoma.

The Florence Times, Friday, 14 Mar 1919, p. 1

DEATH OF MRS. MARGARET ANDERSON (Contributed by G. Kelley)
Mrs. Margaret Anderson, widow of the late J. A. Anderson, died on Tuesday night of last week at the home of her daughter Mrs. Jesse Darby, at Leighton. Her body was interred in the Wesley Chapel Cemetery. Mrs. Anderson was about 70 years of age. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Jesse Darby, and three sons, W. W., Calvin P., and Lee Anderson.

 

DEATH CALLS EX-MERCHANT. Long Illness Fatal To T. H. Anderson. (Contributed by G. Kelley; Source: The Florence Times, Thursday, 24 Jan 1929)
Thomas Hinkle Anderson, aged 78, died yesterday afternoon at the family residence, 810 Kendrick street, after a lingering illness which developed into pneumonia. Mr. Anderson was a lifelong resident of the district and was a retired merchant. Surviving are three sons, W. W. Anderson of Avondale, Cal., I. W. Anderson of Florence, and J. D. Anderson of Nashville, and three daughters, Miss Pearl Anderson, Mrs. J. W. Paulk and Mrs. J. F. Koonce, all of Florence. Funeral services were held this afternoon at 2 o’clock at the North Wood Avenue Methodist church, with Rev M. M. Davidson, presiding elder of the Florence district of the Methodist church officiating, assisted by Rev. T. H. Johnson, pastor of the church. Interment followed in Wesley Chapel cemetery, with Morrison & Phillips in charge.   Active pallbearers were Robert Malone, N. B. Kimble, George Beasley, Lester Walker, J. B. McKnight and R. C. Poag. Honorary Pallbearers were the member of his Sunday school class.

MRS. ANDERSON IS LAID TO REST. Florence Woman Died Friday At Memphis Clinic (Contributed by G. Kelley; Source: The Florence Times, Saturday, 29 Jun 1940)
Funeral services for Mrs. Roberta K. Anderson, aged 70, native and lifelong resident of Lauderdale county, who resided at 506 Campbell street, Florence, and who died suddenly of a heart attack Friday morning at 3:15 o’clock at Campbell’s Clinic, Memphis, where she had been removed following a fall three weeks ago in which she suffered a broken hip, were conducted here this afternoon. Rites were conducted at 4 o’clock at the First Methodist church, Florence, by Dr. L. O. Sturdivant, pastor, burial following in Florence cemetery, Brown Service directing.  Mrs. Anderson, a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. R. B. Broadfoot, pioneer residents of this section, was a devout member of First Methodist church. Surviving in addition to her husband, W. W. Anderson, of Florence, are two daughters, Mrs. Frank Stockard and Miss Willie Anderson both of Florence; two sisters, Mrs. J. T. Haddock, Florence, and Mrs. William Simmons of Tuscaloosa, and three brothers, Ben, William and Thomas Broadfoot, of Florence.  Active pallbearers were Earl Anderson, Price Darby, V. H. Darby, Clyde Anderson, Price Haddock and Douglas Daniels. Honorary pallbearers were Dr. O. D. Ingram, Homer Wesson, Bob Wilson, Jr., Harold S. May, W. S. Pierce, Marcy B. Darnall, Jr., Lawrence Perry, Emmett Daniels, Charles Phillips, W. H. Martin, A. H. Puller, Harvey Ezell, Robert Herston, Andy Burrows, Elbert Burns, Bob Lovelace, F. J. Shelnutt and Ed Hafner.

 

Mr. Anderson Buried Today (Contributed by G. Kelley; Source: The Florence Times, 1 Apr 1957, p. 2)
W. W. (Uncle Bill) Anderson, of 506 West Campbell Street, Florence, died at 5:30 p.m. Sunday at ECM Hospital following an extended illness. He was 87. Mr. Anderson had been retired for 13 years and previous to that time was active as a livestock dealer and farmer. He was a life resident of Lauderdale County. He had been a member of the First Methodist Church for many years. Funeral services were at 4 p.m. today from Brown Service Chapel, Florence. Dr. Edwin Branscomb, pastor of the First Methodist Church, and Rev. Shirley Lowery officiated. Interment was in Florence Cemetery.  He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Frank Stockard Jr., and Mrs. Jack McDade, both Florence; a grandson, Frank Stockard III, Florence; a brother, L. G. Anderson, Chattanooga, Tenn., and a number of nieces and nephews. Bearers were nephews, T. W. Broadfoot, Andrew Haddock, Hollis Broadfoot, Vernon Darby, Price Darby, Herschel Anderson, Earl Anderson, Clyde Anderson, Honorary bearers wee Dr. G. D. Ingram, Homer Hill, Harvey Ezell, Dr. C. F. Luckey, Dr. E. W. Gray, Dr. M. M. Jackson, James Stockard, Louis McCullough, J. L. Goyer, Owen Suilivan [sic], Herschel Kilburn, Jeff Harding, Ike Cody, Lucian Broadfoot, Joe Van Sant [sic], B. F. O’Steen, Sammy Barksdale, Herschel Bunch, Gay Young, George Lee, Bob Walker, A. C. Fox, Ray Hanback.  Arrangements by Brown Service of Florence.

 

IN MEMORY OF CLOVIS AUSTIN - Written by a distant relative (Contributed by Grace Wright Carver of Wayne Co., TN)
Clovis Austin, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Austin died at the home of his parents near Cloverdale, Tuesday morning September 11; the interment took place Wednesday morning in the Austin cemetery, with the services conducted by Rev. Floyd Olive. The passing away of this young man is grevious to mother, father, brother and many friends. Sad, indeed, yet, how happy we are to know that he is safe with Jesus, so let us turn from the darkness that overshadows us, and look for the joy and comfort that is found in God's promises. Clovis has departed from his place on earth and gone to rest from a valley of tears to a mount of joy, from a wilderness to a heavenly paradise.  We have our lives before us; once can we live it, so let us pray for God to kindle in our hearts a burning desire to live for him each day so that when death 
comes to us, we too, will be prepared.  [This obituary was among the collection of Grace Carver's mother. 1923 is written on the side of the column. There is no mention of what paper this appeared in. He may be listed in the Austin Cemetery as J. C. Austin.]

 

DEATH OF MR. F. M. AUSTIN.  A Venerable and Valuable Citizen Passes Away (Contributed by Grace Carver)

Mr. Francis Marion Austin, a pioneer of his community and one of the most highly esteemed citizens of our county, passed away at his home near Cloverdale on Tuesday of last week, of a kidney affection, after an illness of several weeks. The interment was made in the Austin graveyard near Threat. The deceased is survived by his wife and two sons and three daughters; Messrs. John W. and James R. Austin, Mrs. Elmer Koonce, Mrs. T. J. Rhodes* and Mrs. Oscar Huckaba. Mr. Austin was 70 years of age. He was a gentleman of unblemished character and great usefulness in his community, and deservedly held the high opinion of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A landmark of the Cloverdale community has been removed, and he will be greatly missed by a large circle of kinsmen, friends and acquaintances. [*Rhodes has been marked through and ROSE has been written in.]

 

MRS. LOUISA AUSTIN DIES AT HOME OF SON SATURDAY (Contributed by Grace Carver)
Funeral services for Mrs. Louisa Austin, aged 84, widow of the late F. M. Austin, of Cloverdale, who died at the home of her son, J. r. Austin Saturday noon, were conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Austin cemetery with the Rev. F. H. Lewis, pastor of the Liberty Baptist church, officiating. Interment followed in the Austin cemetery with Fielder in charge. The deceased was a lifelong resident and pioneer citizen of this community and was a member of the Liberty Baptist Church. Surviving are two sons, John W., and James R. Austin, of Cloverdale, and three daughters, Mrs. E. L. Koonce and Mrs. T. J. Rose, of Florence and Mrs. O. F. Huckaba, of Nashville, Tenn. [These obituaries were among the collection of Grace Carver's mother. There is no mention of what paper this appeared in. They are listed in the Austin Cemetery survey.]

 

Emma M. Blackburn [Contibuted by Sandra Tidwell in 2007)

Notice: Emma M. Blackburn, 98, died Saturday, May 28, 2005. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Monday at Greenhill Funeral Home. The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home chapel, with burial in Mount Zion Cemetery. Obituary:
Emma M. Blackburn, 98, of Florence, passed from this life to eternal life with her Savior on Saturday, May 28, 2005.
Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Monday, May 30, 2005, at Greenhill Funeral Home. The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Greenhill Funeral Home chapel, with burial in Mount Zion Cemetery. Officiating at the service will be Ellis Coats and Clifford Miles. She was preceded in death by her husband, Miley Blackburn.  She was a member of Darby Drive Church of Christ and was baptized in 1921. She was employed at Wilson School for 28 years as manager of the cafeteria. She was a loving mother and grandmother, and in living her life, all were able to see Jesus in her. She is survived by her son, Robert Blackburn; daughter, Louise Blackburn Frye; daughters-in-law, Shelby Hill Blackburn and Cleo Spencer Blackburn; 14 grandchildren and a large number of great-grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Buddy Blackburn, Gordon Blackburn, Bobby Clingan, David Frye, Steve Frye and Bobby Frye. Honorary pallbearers are elders and deacons of Darby Drive Church of Christ.  A special thank you to all of Station No. 4 at Mitchell-Hollingsworth.       Greenhill Funeral Home, of Florence, is directing. [Article published May 30, 2005]

 

SALLIE BOURLAND (Contributed by Grace Wright Carver)

IN MEMORY On Sunday morning, January 18, the death angel visited the home of Mrs. J. E. Bourland and claimed her loving daughter, Sallie. Sallie was born January 13, 1909 and at the time of her death was 16 years and 2 days of age. In 
the  year 1924 she became a faithful member of the Methodist church.  She leaves three sisters, three brothers, a mother and a host of other relatives and friends to mourn for her. Sallie was confined to her bed four weeks before her death with pneumonia. She was laid to rest in the Mount Pleasant Cemetery.  Her loving sister, Bessie Jones [This obituary was among the collection of Grace Carver's mother. 18 Jan 1925 is written on the bottom of the column. There is no mention of which paper this appeared in.]

 

J. W. Brewer (Contributed by Sandra Tidwell in 2007)
Athens Community -- James Wesley "J.W." Brewer, Jr., 79, died Thursday, January 29, 2004, at his residence in Aberdeen. He was born September 4, 1924, in Florence, Alabama. To Mr. & Mrs. James Wesley Brewer, Sr. He lived in Aberdeen for the past 46 years. He served in World War II and The Korean War. He retired self-employed in construction.  Graveside services were Saturday, January 31, 2004, at Oddfellows Rest Cemetery with Ron Brewer officiating. Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Survivors include one daughter, Phyllis Warner of Greenwood, S.C.; two sons, Ron Brewer and his wife, Angelique, and Paul Brewer, all of Aberdeen; one brother, Jesse Brewer of Hamilton; three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Lillian Irene Farrow Brewer.
Memorials may be made to the Gideon’s Ministry or the American Cancer Society.

 

JAMES H. BRIGGS (Contributed by Darren Briggs, Aug. 14, 2002; Source: Florence Times, March 17, 1899)

The next one called upon to answer the Divine summons was Mr. James H. Briggs, oldest son of Mrs. Mariah Briggs, and brother of Esquire Briggs, of Centre Star, and Mr. Ben Briggs, of Texas. He was born in Tennessee. When about twenty years old he moved with his parents to Alabama, where he remained until a little over a year ago, when he moved to Mississippi and died there about the 5th of January. His death was very sad. His mother, who is 85 years of age, was expecting him on a visit when she received the sad intelligence. He was a highly respected gentleman, a member of the C. P. church, for a long time served as a deacon and at one time was superintendent of the Sunday school. His first wife was a daughter of Esquire Hermon, an old resident of Centre Star. His second wife was a sister of Mr. Frank Bulls, of Centre Star. His last wife is a sister of your townsman, Mr. John Lawler. A little singular, all of his wives bore the name of "Mary," and the same minister officiated in the three marriage ceremonies. He discharged his duty faithfully as superintendent and often gave vent to a flood of tears glistening through his smiles, giving evidence of sweet communion with his Savior. His wife and six children survive him in Mississippi. They have our warmest sympathy.

 

MARIAH (ROSS) BRIGGS (Contributed by Darren Briggs, 14 Aug 2002; Source: Florence Times, January 26, 1900)

Death entered the home of Esq. H. E. Briggs, of this place, Tuesday morning, Jan. 9, 1900, and claimed for its victim his mother, Mrs. Mariah Briggs, (nee Ross). She was born at Carter's Creek, Mauray [sic] county, Tenn., Feb. 22, 1814, and was married to Chas. W. Briggs, of that place, Feb. 19, 1833. She was the mother of five children, three of whom and her husband preceded her to the spirit world. She was one of the oldest residents of the community, being 86 years 11 months 3 days old. "Grandma," as she was familiarly called, was a firm believer in and a faithful follower of Christ, having professed the Christian faith while quite young, and united with the Cumberland Presbyterian church. She said many times during her last days that she was ready and would be glad when her "Master" called her "home." Her remains were laid to rest in the Hermon cemetery, in the certain hope of a glorious resurection [sic]. She leaves two children, and many friends who mourn her loss -- but as we believe our temporary loss is her eternal gain, we sorrow not as those who have no hope. May the guiding hand of Him who doeth all things well sustain the sorrowing ones until He shall say to them, "it is enough, come up higher."

 

Reba Broadfoot. A Remarkable Child (Contributed by Grace Wright Carver of Wayne Co., TN)

It is with a sad heart that I write these lines in loving tribute to little Reba, only child of Mr. and Mrs. Guy Broadfoot, of Threet. Little Reba died on Wednesday morning, September 8th, 1915, age 2 years, 2 month, 24 days. She was a bright beautiful baby always ready with a smile for everyone. No one could pass her by without a cheerful greeting, to know her was to love her. On Tuesday about one o'clock, she was badly burned and seemed to realize from the first that God had called her. She said mother, I can't get well. Our hearts are made to feel very sad when we think of such a bright affectionate child having to end this life so early in age. There seems to be a sadness in little Reba's playmate's heats, for they will say, we can never play with little Reba again. It was said of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing little Reba, that she was an unusually bright and beautiful child. I will say to her little cousins and friends and relatives to try to imitate her pure and innocent life and you shall see dear Reba in that pure bright world where joy shall never end. To her grief stricken parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts, look upward and know that she is dwelling and basking in the sunlight of Jesus love, the same Jesus who said, suffer the little children to come unto me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Kiss the little nut-brown tresses cut from her dark and pretty hair, for the angels kiss your darling in the realms so bright and fair. Father, when home you're coming in the evening soon or late, 'tis so hard to know no Reba will greet you at the gate. But there'll be a joyful meeting on that bright celestial shore, 'tis then we'll meet sweet Reba, there to live forever more. For we pray to meet dear Reba for a long, long sweet embrace, where the little feet are waiting, and we meet her face to face. A loving Friend, Mrs. Coy Leneave [This obituary was among the collection of Grace Carver's mother. There is no date but the reverse has mention of Lauderdale County. It is possible that this was published in a Lauderdale County newspaper. According to Theo Williford's Index, there are two notices of this death in the Florence Times: 17 Sep 1915, and 29 Oct 1915. Also, according to the same source, she died 8 Sep 1915.]

FATAL ACCIDENT. Young Man Killed Near Smithsonia (Contributed by Dawna Carlton, Aug.-Sept. 2007; Source: The Florence Times, Friday, 2 Aug 1901.)

On Friday last Lonnie Brown, son of Mr. T. G. Brown, who lives near Smithsonia, met with an accident which resulted in his death a few days later. The young man had been out hunting, and in attempting to remount his horse with the gun frightened the animal, which became unmanageable and ran away, the bridal bit broke, and the unfortunate man was thrown. In the fall the horse struck him in the stomach, which caused fatal internal injuries. He was otherwise badly bruised.   

 

“Rhodesville Notes” (Contributed by Dawna Carlton, Aug. - Sept. 2007; Source: The Florence Herald, Thursday, 1 Aug 1901, p. 7) A sad accident occurred Friday at Smithsonia. A young man named Brown, who lived on the Rowell place, started to go hunting, and his horse ran away, throwing him out on the ground. When found he was almost lifeless and his body was badly mangled. He was carried home on a litter and death came to his relief in a short time. How uncertain is life! Like a vapor, it endures for a while, and then vanishes away. 

 

DEATH SUDDENLY CALLS OLD EAST FLORENCE CITIZEN (Contributed by Tammy Cabler, Jan. 2, 2005; Source: Florence Herald - May 23, 1906)
While sitting in a chair at his home in East Florence, apparently in good health and without warning, [Joseph Cobler], and old and highly respected citizen, was suddenly summoned to his last, long sleep, aged seventy years. His wife was sitting in an adjoining room, and hearing a noise, entered the room where her husband was, only to find him breathing his last. [James B. Cabler I]

James B. Cabler (Contributed by Tammy Cabler, Jan. 2, 2005; Source: Florence Times Daily, June 2, 1987)
FLORENCE- James Boyd Cabler, 89, died Monday, June 1, 1987 at Rolling Acres Nursing Home, Florence, aftrer an extended illness. He was a lifelong resident of Lauderdale County, a member of Jacksonburg Church of Christ, and was a farmer.
The funeral will be at 2pm Wednesday at Jacksonburg Church of Christ with Garry Hooch and Cyrus Quillen officiating. Burial will be in Jacksonburg Cemetery, Elkins and Son Funeral Home directing. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Jimmie Lee Cabler, Florence; sons, Jesse Cabler, Edward Cabler, Paul Cabler, all of Florence; daughters, Alma Bretherick, Nell Smith, both of Florence, sisters, Reba Robertson, Vera Behel, Lydia Miller, all of Florence; 27 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren. 
Bearers will be grandsons. 

 

Carrol E. Clemons (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Florence Times Daily, Sept. 30, 1992)

Waterloo- Carroll Eugene Clemons, 71, Route 1, died Tuesday, September 29,1992, at Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital, Florence, after a brief illness. He was a native of Lauderdale County and a highway construction worker. The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at Gravely Springs Baptist Church with Sam Young officiating.  Burial will be in Gravely Springs Cemetery.  Elkins Funeral Home, Florence, directing. Visitation will be 6-9 p.m. today at the funeral home.  The body will be placed in the church one hour before the funeral. Survivors include his wife, Betty  Waterloo; sons, Mickey Clemons, Boyce Clemons, Jerry Clemons, Ronnie Clemons, all of Florence; daughter, Linda Melton, Waterloo, brother, Jay Clemons, Florence, Sister, Neil Haddock, Florence; 18 grandchildren; eight grandchildren.

 

Clyde Clemons (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Florence Times Daily, June 26, 1975)
Mr. Clemons – Clyde Clemons, 82, Rt. 2, Florence, died Thursday at his home. He was a native of Lauderdale County, a retired farmer. Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Morrison-Elkins Chapel, Florence. Buel Gladney will officiate. Burial will be in Gravely Springs Cemetery. Surviving are his wife, Mary; daughters, Mrs. J.S. Rhodes Jr., Mrs. Noah Young. Mrs. Fred Jones, Mrs. Otis Brown, all of Florence; sons, Hugh L. Clemons, Jim Clemons, Bobby Clemons, Florence, 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren. Bearers will be Rexie Wood, Louis Beard, Melvin Austin, Jack Clemons. Eugene Clemons, Herbert Clemons.

Elmer J. Clemons (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Florence Times Daily, May 11, 1966)

FLORENCE- The graveside service for Elmer J. Clemons [E. J.], 62, [County Road 14], will be at 9 a.m. today at Macedonia Cemetery with Norman L. Hargett officiating, Elkins Funeral Home, Florence directing. He died Friday, February 24, 1989, at his residence after an extended illness. He was a native and lifelong resident of Lauderdale County. He was a retired maintenance employee with Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital, Florence and a veteran of World War II, with eight years of service in the Army. He was a member of the Church of Christ. Survivors include his son, Billy Gene Clemons, Florence; brothers, Gene Clemons, Bill Clemons, Larry Clemons, Jack Clemons, all of Florence; sisters, Omie V. Woodis, Maurine Smith, Mary Balentine, Eloise Palmer, Jane King, Ellene Smith, all of Florence; two grandchildren. Bearers will be Clifford Simon, Mike Palmer, Caludie Burnett, Gene Thomas, Tony Clemons, Rickey Clemons. Honorary bearers are Kenneth Richards, Tim Rhodes, Charles Cromwell, Ray Woods, Chester Woodis, and Don Smith.

 

George D. Clemons (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Times Daily, Saturday, May 19, 1990)
Florence – The service for George David Clemons, 51, 1802 Tune Ave., will be at 3 p.m. today at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church with the Revs. Henry Myers and Kenrad White officiating. Burial will be in Gravely Springs Cemetery, with Elkins Funeral Home, Florence, directing. He died Friday, May 18, 1990, in a drowning accident in the Tennessee River. He was a native of Lauderdale County, a veteran of the Vietnam War, a member of St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church where he was a vestryman and Junior Warden and was a retired U.S. Army Major. Survivors include sisters, Shelia Rhodes and Jenny Shook, both of Florence, nieces and nephews. Memorials made be made to the Waterloo High School Alumni Scholarship Fund. Bearers will be members of St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church.

 

 

 

 

 

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Molly M. Wesson Clemons (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Times Daily, May 14, 1986)
FLORENCE- Mrs. Molly Myrtle Clemons, 86, Route 2, Florence, died Wednesday, May 14, 1986, at Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital, Florence. She was a native and lifelong resident of Lauderdale County, a house-wife, the widow of Elmer Clemons and a member of the Church of Christ. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Macedonia Church of Christ with Norman Hargett and Doyle Mills officiating. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery. Elkins and Son Funeral Home, Florence, directing. The family will receive visitors 6-9 p.m. today at the funeral home. The body will be placed in the church one hour before the service. Survivors include sons, Jack Clemons, Eugene Clemons, Billy Clemons, Larry Clemons, all of Florence; daughters, Mary Balenting, Omie V. Woodis, Jane King, Elois Palmer, Maurine Smith, Ellene Smith, all of Florence, brother, Floyd Wesson, Chattanooga, Tennessee, 36 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren.

 

Ralph Clemons (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Times Daily, April 12, 1967)
Ralph Clemons, 38, Michigan City, Indiana, died Wednesday. He was a native of Lauderdale County and a resident of Indiana since 1952; he was employed as a factory worker, and was a member of First Baptist Church of Tyronza, Ark.
Funeral services will be Saturday at 2 p.m. from Morrison-Elkins Chapel with Gilbert Kretzer officiating. Burial will follow in Gravlee Springs Cemetery. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Thelma Springer, Rolling Prairie, Indiana, Mrs. Harry Bennett, Rolling Prairie, Indiana; one son, Johnny Ray Clemons, Buffalo, Michigan, parents, Mr. And Mrs. Sewell Clemons, Florence; two brothers, Roy and Kenneth Clemons, Michigan City, Indiana; five sisters, Mrs. Evely Bivens, Grand Junction, Michigan, Mrs. Edith Whitesell, Dearborne, Michigan, Mrs. Carolyn Newberry, Newport, Arkansas, Mrs. Cathy Haack, Michigan City, Indiana, Mrs. Randy LeCates, Florence. Pallbearers will be Lloyd Haddock, Elvin Haddock, Ray Casteel, Randy LeCates, Gary Daniels, Glenn Clemons.

 

S. P. "Sewell" Clemons (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Florence Times Daily: October 8, 1962)

Sewell P. Clemons, 60, of 454-B Cherry Hill Homes, Florence, died at 12:30 p.m. Sunday of self-inflicted gunshot wounds in the chest, reports said. He was a native and life-long resident of Lauderdale County and was a member of Lee Hi Church of Christ.Services will be conducted Wednesday at 2 p.m. from Graveley Springs Baptist Church by Rev. Gilbert Kretzer. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery, Morrison-Elkins directing.Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Eva Belle Young Clemons; two sons, Roy, of Indiana; Kenneth, of Michigan City, Indiana; five daughters, Mrs. Evelyn Bivens, South Haven, Michigan; Mrs. Edith Whitesell, Dearborn Michigan; Mrs. Cathy Haack, Indiana; Mrs. Carolyn Newberry, Newport, Arkansas; Mrs. Regina Lecates, Sheffield; three brothers, J. T., Carroll, R. P., two sisters, Mrs. Nell Haddock, Mrs. Lola Casteel, all of Florence; 22 grandchildren, three great grandchildren.Bearers will be Lloyd Haddock, Jim Clemons, Bobby Clemons, Jack Clemons, Gene Clemons, Gary Daniels.Florence Times Daily: October 8, 1962S. P. Clemons (Sewell)Sewell P. Clemons, 60, of 454-B Cherry Hill Homes, Florence, died at 12:30 p.m. Sunday of self-inflicted gunshot wounds in the chest, reports said.He was a native and life-long resident of Lauderdale County and was a member of Lee Hi Church of Christ.Services will be conducted Wednesday at 2 p.m. from Graveley Springs Baptist Church by Rev. Gilbert Kretzer. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery, Morrison-Elkins directing.Surviving are the widow, Mrs. Eva Belle Young Clemons; two sons, Roy, of Indiana; Kenneth, of Michigan City, Indiana; five daughters, Mrs. Evelyn Bivens, South Haven, Michigan; Mrs. Edith Whitesell, Dearborn Michigan; Mrs. Cathy Haack, Indiana; Mrs. Carolyn Newberry, Newport, Arkansas; Mrs. Regina Lecates, Sheffield; three brothers, J. T., Carroll, R. P., two sisters, Mrs. Nell Haddock, Mrs. Lola Casteel, all of Florence; 22 grandchildren, three great grandchildren.Bearers will be Lloyd Haddock, Jim Clemons, Bobby Clemons, Jack Clemons, Gene Clemons, Gary Daniels. Morrison-Elkins Funeral Home is directing.

 

Robert Pete Clemons, Jr. (Contributed by Wendy Cabler, Feb. 2005; Source: Florence Times Daily: April 5, 1979)
Robert Pete Clemmons Jr., 62, Rt. 2, Waterloo, was found dead Friday near his residence. He was a lifelong resident of Lauderdale County, a member of the Baptist Church and a retired Union Carbide employee. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Gravely Springs Baptist Church. Sam Young and R. C. Scott will officiate. Burial will be in Gravely Springs Cemetery. Morrison-Elkins Funeral Home, Florence, directing. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Lelia Gertrude Clemmons; sons, David Glen Clemmons, Harold Dale Clemmons, all of Florence; daughters, Mrs. Horace Daniel, Mrs. Sandra Sharp, both of Waterloo; sisters, Mrs. Leon Haddock, Mrs. Buford Casteel, both of Florence; brothers, Carroll Clemmons, K. T. Clemmons, both of Florence; three grandchildren. Bearers will be Horace Rhodes, Bobby Clemmons, Gene Clemmons, Elvin Haddocks, Lloyd Haddock and Ricky McDougal. The body will be at Morrison-Elkins Funeral Home, Florence, until being placed in the church one hour before the funeral.

 

JOHN COX (Contributed by Norma J. Fowlkes; Source: Florence Times, Saturday, December 19,1896)
Dead

Mr. John Cox, a worthy citizen of west Lauderdale, died at his home on Brush Creek on Sunday morning last, at the advanced age of 89 years. He was a good man, a faithful Christian, and in his death the community loses a valued citizen.

 

J. WEAKLEY CUNNINGHAM. The Confederate Veteran, May 1911 (Contributed by Margie Daniels)

The death of J. W. Cunningham occurred on November 14. 1910, at the old homestead, near Rogersville, Ala., where he had lived the greater part of his life. He joined the 57th Alabama Infantry in the spring of 1862, and served to the close of the war, surrendering with Johnston's army in North Carolina. He and John Smith, a neighbor, were the only survivors to represent the 57th Alabama at the surrender. He had been offered the adjutancy of an Alabama regiment by Colonel Cunningham, but preferred to remain as the sergeant major of his regiment. A cousin who knew and loved him thus writes: "We were reared under the same roof from early childhood, and never did an unkind word fall from his lips. He was the soul of honor and was respected by all who knew him. He died in full faith of the justice of the cause for which he gave three years of his life and under the banner where he had been for many years a faithful Nazarene." [NOTE: Margie Daniels copied this and several other death notices found in the Confederate Veteran and sent them to the Alabama mail list. It is used here with her permission.]