FUNERAL PROGRAMS, BLACK DECATUR COUNTIANS
From the collection of Novella Tole
The information presented below comes from funeral programs. Information about place and date of funeral, place of interment, and funeral home in charge is included. Most of the funeral programs include an obituary which is reproduced. Order of service information, bible verses, poems, and acknowledgments have been omitted. Information about pallbearers, ushers, and flower bearers generally is included if the funeral was held in Decatur or Henderson counties, but is excluded for funerals held elsewhere. I want to thank Novella Tole of Milwaukee for sharing her collection of funeral programs.
David Donahue, February 1999
Mary Ella Bailey
MRS. MARY ELLA BAILEY
1914-1989
August 9, 1989
8:00 P.M.
PARHAM MORTUARY
Lexington, Tennessee
Rev. Harles Mays, Officiant
COMMITTAL & INTERMENT
Thursday, August 10, 1989
2:00 P.M.
Decaturville Cemetery
Decaturville, Tennessee
OBITUARY
Mary Ella Yarbro Bailey, native of Decatur County, former school teacher & beautician, was born October 13, 1914, oldest child of the late Lessie J. Scott Yarbro and Rupert Yarbro, preceeded in death by her husband James R. Bailey, Sr.
Mary Ella is survived by three daughters, John O. Cothrine & Sandra A. Peterson, both of Knoxville, Tn. And Novella Gayle Bailey of Parsons, Tn; two sons, James R. Bailey Jr. of Selmer, Tn. & Gerald R. Bailey of Parsons, Tn.; sister, N. Novella Tole of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; brothers, Henry C. Yarbro of Chicago, Ill. & Jerry Fred Yarbro of Decaturville, Tn; six grandchildren and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceeded in death by brothers Will Burt & Gary S. Yarbro.
Return to Obituary List
Samuel Booty
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. SAMUEL (SAM) BOOTY
1883-1973
FREEMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Monday, July 9, 1973
2:00 P. M.
Rev. Harles Mays, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
OBITUARY
Mr. Samuel (Sam) Booty departed this life July 6, 1973 at 5 a.m. at the Tri-County Convalescent Home, Adamsville, Tennessee. He was born in Decatur County, February 2, 1883, making his stay on this earth 90 years, 5 months and 4 days. He was the son of the late Bill and Sallie Jennings Booty. He professed a hope in Christ at an early age and joined the Church of God in Christ, he worked faithfully for the growth and upbuilding of the church and the community until illness dimmed his power in the last years. He was a member of the Trustee and Steward Boards for many years.
He was married to Miss Vannie White in 1924. To this union 5 children were born, one of which preceded him in death. He was a loving father, friend and neighbor.
Leaving to cherish his memory, his widow, Miss Vannie White, 3 daughters, Mrs. Bobbie Arnold, Mrs. Lexsola Riggins, and Mrs. Geraldine Yarbrough, all of Chicago; one son, Mr. Swanson Booty, Decaturville, Tennessee; 9 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews; other relatives and friends.
Pallbearers: Ernest Brewer, Sr, W. C. Funderburk, Mitchell Hardin, J. B. McElrath, J. L. Pettigrew, Stone Walker
Flower Bearers: Ollie M. Ashcraft, Arlee Brewer, Emaline Brewer, Anna Fisher, Valora Fisher, Mildred Kindle, Geneva Menzies, Maude Tole
Parham Mortuary
85 Barnhill Street, Lexington, Tennessee 38351
Ushers: Sophia Brasher, Novella Montgomery, Zenobia Pettigrew, Pauline Phelps
Return to Obituary List
Ocie Harold Brasher
MEMORIAL SERVICE
FOR
MR. OCIE HAROLD BRASHER
PATTON FUNERAL HOME
Crystal Chapel
MONDAY, JULY 14, 1969
1:00 PM
Committal and Interment
Crown Hill Cemetery
OBITUARY
Husband, OCIE HAROLD BRASHER, son of Alberta Brasher, was born Friday, June 5, 1936, departed this life, Thursday, July, 10, 1969 at age 33 Yrs, one month and five days. A native of Bathsprings, Tenn., was converted at the age of 12 years at Union Baptist Church. He came to Indianapolis and had been a resident 14 years.
He was united in marriage to Mrs. Maxine Jordan, May 29, 1963.
To mourn his loss, a mother, Mrs. Alberta Brasher, Bathsprings, Tenn; the widow, Mrs. Maxine Brasher, three daughters by a former marriage, Misses Karen Denice, Tony Marie and Sharon Lucille Brasher, all of Indianapolis; three brothers, Coulas and Joseph Arthur, both of Indianapolis and Booker Franklin Brasher, Bathsprings, Tenn., six sisters, Jessie Lee Walker and Willie Mae Walker, both of Selmer, Tenn., Helen Louise Green, Kansas City, Kans., Joann Brasher, Henderson, Tenn., Hazel Mae Tale and Linda Doris Tinsley, both of Bathsprings, Tenn. and a host of other relatives and friends.
PATTON FUNERAL HOME
2357 Northwestern Avenue
Indianapolis, Ind.
Return to Obituary List
Sidney Barley Brasher
OBSEQUIES
OF
MR. SIDNEY BARLEY BRASHER
UNION BAPTIST CHURCH
Bath Springs, Tennessee
March 10, 1968
2:00 P. M.
Rev. E. C. Cole, Minister
Interment: Union Cemetery
Parham Mortuary
Lexington, Tenneesee
In Charge
[does not include obituary]
At Union Cemetery: Barley Brasher, 3/10/1896-3/7/1968
Return to Obituary List
Viola Beatrice Browder
OBSEQUIES
of
MRS. VIOLA BEATRICE BROWDER
1923-1977
ST. PAUL BAPTIST CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Saturday, February 12, 1977
2:00 P. M.
Rev. R. S. Neely, Minister
Interment: Perryville Cemetery
Parham Mortuary
Lexington, Tennessee
In Charge
Pallbearers: Jack Brewer, George Brasher, T. R. Mays, George Pettigrew, Stone Walker
[no obituary included]
At Perryville Cemetery: Browder, Viola B., "Mrs.," d. 2/6/1977, "Age 53 Yrs. 1 Mos. 22 Days" [temporary marker, Parham Mortuary, 1 yard south of marker for James F. Pettigrew]
Return to Obituary List
Floyd L. Buck
IN REMEMBRANCE
FLOYD L. BUCK
Died May 27, 1953
Funeral — 1:30 P. M.
Sunday, May 31, 1953
Clark St. Baptist Church
Huntingdon, Tennessee
OBITUARY
Floyd Lucien Buck was born in McKenzie, Tennessee, of the late Lena Blanch Frierson Buck and Charles Harvard Buck. Entered Fisk University at about the age of fifteen years, was graduated with Cum Laude in the year 1926; was President of his class; received Bachelor of Arts degree.
He travelled with the President of Fisk University, Dr. Elsie Jones and the Jubilee Singers on a financial tour, having canvassed four states.
He professed religion at an early age and united with the Missionary Baptist church, for the past seven years and was a deacon.
Survivors are his father, Prof. C. H. Buck of Huntingdon; sister, Theodosia of Huntingdon, brother Frank of Baltimore, Md.; two aunts, Mrs. Queenie Snead of Columbia, Tenn., and Mrs. Ida Siegler of St. Louis, Mo.; two uncles and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his passing.
At his death he was principal of the Decatur County Training School, having held this position for the past seven years, and was reelected for the coming year.
Floyd had an inspiring personality, bringing light and sunshine to all whom he met.
PALLBEARERS
DECATUR COUNTY CITIZENS
Decaturville, Tennessee
FLOWER BEARERS: Wylma Jean Welch, Sue Nelle Scott, Ida Walker, Willie Mae Yarbro, Mary Ella Walker, Geraldine White, Nita Fay Stigall, Charline Montgomery
USHERS: Lela B. Thomas, Ila Johnson, Glen Williams, Sherley Buckley, Laura Mae Adams, Lucien Williams
COX FUNERAL HOME IN CHARGE
Return to Obituary List
Eula Mae Cleary
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MRS. EULA MAE CLEARY
1899-1975
ST. PAUL BAPTIST CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Tuesday, September 2, 1975
2:00 P.M.
Rev. R. S. Neely, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
Parham Mortuary
Lexington, Tennessee
In Charge
Obituary
Eula Mae Kindle, Cleary, daughter of the late Bevel Kindle and Ida Kindle, Pettigrew, was born August 22, 1899 and met her demise in the Hardin County Hospital, Savannah, Tennessee August 29, 1975. Age 76 years, 7 days.
Her childhood and young years were spent in Decatur County, Tennessee. At an early age she confessed a hope in Christ and joined the St. Paul Baptist Church in Decaturville.
In 1922 she was united in Holy matrimony to Earnest Cleary, who preceded her in death.
For many years she has been a resident of Saltillo, Tenn. endearing herself in the community as a loving person, a good neighbor and a christian woman.
She endured an extended illness, but was patient, loving and kind amid it all.
She leaves to cherish her memory: 2 sisters, Mrs. Ruby Parsons, Decaturville, Tennessee, and Mrs. Anna Fisher of Parsons, Tennessee; 2 brothers, Mr. Melvis Pettigrew of Detroit, Mich., and Mr. George Wimmiam Pettigrew of Parsons, Tenn.; 1 brother-in-law, Mr. Rassie Cleary of Detroit, Mich., and other Cleary family-in-laws, including Leonard and Sallie Sweeney of Savannah, Tenn.; sisters-in-law, Mrs. Rubye Pettigrew, Mrs. Hattie Pettigrew and Mrs. Mildred Kindle; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many, many friends.
Pallbearers: Richard Dizon, J. W. Holt, George McElrath, Stone Walker, Earnest Brewer, Jr.
Flower Bearers: Lois Hughes, Rosie Johnson, Arlee Brewer, Mildred Kindle, Annie Whitten, Cora Lowery
Return to Obituary List
Edna G. Craig
OBS EQUIES
Of
MRS. EDNA G. CRAIG
1890- 1968
FREEDMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
January 4, 1969
2:00 P.M.
Rev. W. W. Wortham, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
Tolley Mortuary
Parsons. Tcnnesses
In Charge
Pallbearers: Elmer L. Tole, C. D. Montgcmery, Harless Mays, Ray Vaughn, Stone Walker, George Pettgrew
Ushers: Mrs. Sophia Brasher, Mrs. Clara Hardn
Flower Bearers: Mae Brewer, Clara T. Pettigrew, Debra McDonald, Hazel Brasher, Mary King, Brunah B. Pettigrew
[The program did not include an obituary. The following information, which is not contemporary with the program, comes from a typed sheet inserted into the program.]
EDNA GRETCHEN YARBRO
was the daughter of Henry Carr Yarbro and Henrietta Clarkston Yarbro.
Edna C. Yarbro married Ashley Craig — 1 child. Jewel Yarbro Craig. She married Walter L. Duckett — 1 child. Peggy O'Neal Duckett. Jewel later married Nathaniel Parham. They had three children. Nathaniel Parham Jr., Pamela Jewel Parham. Anthony R. Parham.
Peggy married Vernice Scruggs. They have nine children. Steven, Sharon, David, Darrell, Jacqueline, Peggy, Lomont, Michael, and Marcus.
Sharon married Walter Wordlaw. They have two children, ShaTasha and Jason. She has another son. Sohn—Robert. Jacqueline married Eric Whitaker. They have four children. Michael, Andrew, Jacquice, and Eric. Peggy married Clint Anderson. They have two children,. Joshua and Princess. David has one son. David Jr. Darrell is married to the former Cynthia Hines. He has a daughter, Angela. Michael is married to the former Rita Dunlap. They have two children, Ken and Nicole. Nathaniel married the former Patty Miller. They have three children. Natalie, Nicole, and Steven. Nathaniel has another son, Nathaniel III. Anthony married the former Leslie Lee. They have one daughter, Valarie. He has another son, Jules.
Return to Obituary List
Mary Irene Craig
OBSEQUIES
FOR
MRS. MARY IRENE CRAIG
1924-1966
Freeman's Chapel Methodist Church
Decaturville, Tennessee
Sunday, April 24, 1966
2:00 p. m.
Rev. W. W. Wortham
Officiating
FINAL RESTING PLACE — Decaturville Cemetery
PARHAM FUNERAL HOME
In Charge
[did not include an obituary]
At Decaturville Negro Cemetery: Craig, Mary Irene, 3/5/1924-4/17/1966, "Mother"
Return to Obituary List
OBSEQUIES
FOR
ANNA BELL CROWDER
1880-1972
Thursday, January 6, 1972
7:00-9:00 P.M.
Sheldon heights Church of Christ
11325 South Halsted
Chicago, Illinois
Samuel L. Jordan-Minister
OBITUARY
Anna Bell Crowder was born February 13, 1880 to the union of Samuel and Lucy Holt. The fourth child of five children, she was raised in Holtsville, Tennessee, attended and later taught in the Pubic School of Holtsville and Decatursville.
On December 25, 1900 she was joined in wedlock to David C. Crowder. This union was blessed with three sons, Ulus C., Rolland M., and Guy Crowder, all of Chicago.
Sister Crowder was baptized into the Church of Christ at an early age, and was a devout Christian.
After the death of her beloved husband, she moved to Chicago. In Jan. 1944 she placed her membership with the Michigan Avenue Church of Christ under the leadership of the late Levi Kennedy.
She was a faithful Christian, a loving mother and always ready to render a needed service.
After doing all they could for their mother in the home and in and out of the hospital, she was admitted to the First Church of Deliverance Nursing Home on February 10, 1971 by her sons because of the proper care they knew she would receive.
Sister Anna Bell Crowder departed this life Tuesday, January 2, 1972 at 5:00 A.M. She leaves to mourn her passing one sister, Mrs. Lula Young of Savannah, Tennessee. Three sons, and their wives, four nieces, five nephews and a host of relatives and friends.
Interment — Decaturville, Tennessee
Director —Progressive Funeral Home
Return to Obituary List
James Ronald Doyle
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. JAMES RONALD DOYAL
1949-1979
FREEDMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Monday, August 27, 1979 1:00 P.M.
Rev. Anthony Thomas, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
OBITUARY
Decaturville, Tennessee, August 27, 1979.
On Sunday morning, 3:30 a.m., August 19, 1979 the death angel visited Mr. James R. Doyal and winged his soul away to an unknown world, where there will be no sorrow, sickness or death. James Ronald was born in Decatur County, Parsons, Tennessee, August 14, 1949. He attended the public schools of Decatur County. He made his home with his grandmother while in Decatur County, later he moved to Chicago, and made his home with his mother, he completed high school in Chicago. James Ronald joined the United States Navy, and served his country well. Upon being discharged from the navy, he returned to Chicago. James was loved by everyone, he will be sadly missed by relatives and friends.
He leaves to mourn his passing, his mother, Mrs.LexsolaRiggins, Chicago; father, Mr. J. C. Doyal, Saginaw, Michigan; 2 children, Ladonna and Michelle Doyal, both of Chicago; 2 sisters, Mrs. Dorothy M. Gandy, Chicago and Ms. Varlarna R. Doyal, Saginaw, Michigan; one brother, Mr. James Walker, Detroit, Michigan; grandmother, Mrs. Vanny White; Decaturville, Tennessee; 2 aunts, Mrs. Bobby Arnold, Decaturville, and Mrs. Geraldine Yarbro, Chicago; 3 uncles, Mr. Swanson Booty, Decaturville, Mr. Clarence Odell Doyal, Evansville, Indiana, and Mr. James F. Walker, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, a host of other relatives and friends.
Pallbearers: Cecil Dabbs, Cecil Phelps, Jean Scott, Sam Walker, Stone Walker, Thomas Webster
Flower Bearers: Barbara Hardin, Novella Montgomery, Burma R. Pettigrew, Lacula Tole Pettigrew, Maude Tole, Lessie Yarbro
Parham Mortuary
85 Barnhill Street
Lexington, Tennessee 38351
Return to Obituary List
Eddie Fredericks, Sr.
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. EDDIE FREDERICKS, SR.
1925-1973
FREEDMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Monday, November 12, 1973
2:00 P.M.
Rev. R. L. Vann, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
[did not include obituary]
Pallbearers: George Brasher, Jack Brewer, Cecil Phelps, Brown Pritchard, Stone Walker, Buster Walker, George McElrath
Ushers: Sis. Sophia Brasher, Sis. Geneva Menzies, Sis. Zenobia Pettigrew, Bro. Cecil Phelps
Parham Mortuary
85 Barnhill St., Lexington, Tennessee 38351
Return to Obituary List
Kerby Hayes
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. KERBY HAYES
1894- 1972
ST. PAUL METHODIST CHURCH
Morris Chapel, Tennessee
Friday, June 9, 1972
12 Noon
Rev. L. D. Jones, Minister
Interment: Shiloh National Cemetery
Parham Mortuary
Lexington, Tennessee
In Charge
Obituary
Kerby Hayes (April 10, 1894-June 6, 1972) was born in Hardin County, Hookers Bend Community, son of Edward and Lucy Lee Hayes.
He was a member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church where he served as Chairman and Treasurer of the Trustee Board.
He was married to the former Willie Laster who survives. In addition he is survived by 11 children, 31 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, a host of other relatives and friends.
Return to Obituary List
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MRS. CLARA BELL HOWARD
1896-1973
TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST
Parsons, Tennessee
Sunday, September 2, 1973
12:00 O'clock Noon
Elder R. L. Williams, Minister
Interment: Clay Cemetery
Pallbearers: Roy Anders, Swan Johnson, Burnett Pettigrew, George Pettigrew, Sr., Taylor Scott
[Ushers?] Ollie Ashcraft, Caille Johnson, Ruby Pettigrew, Zenobia Pettigrew, Auline Scott, Ruth Scott, Joyce Webster
Parham Mortuary
85 Barnhill St., Lexington, Tennessee 38351
Return to Obituary List
Henry Dewayne Ivory
In Loving Memory
of
HENRY DEWAYNE IVORY
Funeral Services
12:00 p.m., Sunday, March 12,1995
Cedar Street Baptist Church
Hayti, Missouri
Reverend Bobby Patterson, Officiating
Obituary
Henry DeWayne Ivory, son of Tim and Katherine Ivory was born Septeniber 27, 1943, in Swift, Missouri.
While residing in Hayti, he worked for Caruthersville Shipyard and Trinity Marine Group for 16 years.
He departed this life March 8. 1995.
He was a devoted husband and father. He leaves to cherish his memory wife - Gerlene Ivory; mother - Katherine Ivory; one sister and brother-in-law, Barbara Lewis and husband, Ronnie; three sons and two daughters-in-laws; DeWayne Keith (wife-Rachel); DeAndre; and Brandcn (wife-Valla); one step-daughter - Xenia Huffman; one annt - Ms. Georgia Mae Craig; mother-in-law, Mrs. Willie Mae Bennett; two sisters-in-law, Helen Bennett and Cynthia Bennett, all of Hayti. Missouri; and a host of cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends.
Return to Obituary List
Michael Ivory
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
Mr. Michael Ivory
1960-1979
Freedman Chapel A.M.E. Church
Decaturville, Tennessee
Saturday, June 9, 1979
2:00 P.M.
Rev. Anthony Thomas, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
OBITUARY
Michael was born in Caruthersville, Missouri, December 26, 1960, and died June 2, 1979, making his stay on earth 18 years, 5 months, and 25 days. He departed this life at the Madison County General Hospital, Jackson, Tennessee, after being injured June 1, 1979. At an early age he united with the Freedman Chapel A.M.E. Church, Decaturville, Tennessee. He served well in every department of the church and was member of the choir at the time of his untimely death. His kindness and smile will always be remembered by all that knew him. No stranger was ever at his door, for there was love for everyone. He will be sadly missed by all of his relatives and friends.
Michael was a May 1979 graduate of Riverside High School, Parsons, Tennessee.
He leaves to mourn his passing, a daughter, Flanda Ivory, Decaturville; a devoted mother, Mrs. Katherine Ivory, Decaturville; a sister, Mrs. Barbara Lewis, St. Louis, Missouri; a brother, Dwayne Ivory, Carthursville, Missouri; aunts, Mrs. Georgia Craig, Cleveland, Ohio, and Mrs. Daisy White, Decaturville, TN.; one uncle, Henry Shelton, Decaturville; one great-uncle, Nelson Walker, 1 nephew, 2 nieces, a host of other relatives and friends.
PALLBEARERS: Friends
FLOWER BEARERS: Friends
USHERS: Sis. Sophia Brasher, Sis. Yulonda Brasher, Sis. Mary Irene Toliver, Sis. Sophia Marie Smith
Return to Obituary List
Sally Tole Jorden
In Loving Memory
of
Sally Tole Jorden
Wednesday, November 29, 1995
2:00p.m.
Freedman Chapel AME Church
Decaturville, TN
Rev. John Moore, Pastor Officiating
Obituary
God created Sally and designed her life. Sally was born July 8, 1925 to the late Burmah J. and Earnest Tole. She departed this life Wednesday, November 22, 1995 at 12:12 p.m. at Akron City Hospital in Akron, Oh.
She accepted Christ at an early age at Freedman Chapel AME Church in Decaturville, Tn. She attended Decatur County Training School, later moving to Akron, Oh. She worked for Ross McDowell Cleaners for several years. She served with Arlington Church of God under the leadership of Rev. Fowler. Sally was known for her meek personality and kind ways. Sally was loved by all and she will be dearly missed.
She leaves to cherish her memory one son: Elwin L. Townsend of Akron, Oh.; two daughters: Rosetta Townsend of Akron, Ohio and Clarise Brown of Atlanta, Ga.; two sisters: Annie B. Robinson of Akron, Oh. and Lacula Tole of Decaturville, Tn.; two brothers: Earnest H. Tole of Decaturville, Tn., and Elmer L. Tole of Lexington, Tn.; one aunt Irene White of South Bend, In.; one uncle- Mr. Mitchel1 Pettigrew of South Bend, In.; one sister-in-law: Novella Tole of Milwaukee, Wis.; 11 grandchildren, six great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers: Franklin Brasher, Robert Sampson, Ronnie Tole, Monty McClain, Author Phelps, Nathaniel Brasher
Flowerbearers: Willie D. Patterson, Patricia Posey, Maxine Brasher, Susan Sampson, Wilma J. Welch, Dorothy Patterson
Ushers: Zenobia Pettigew, Sophia Brasher, Ronnie Brasher, Joyce Tinsley
Interment
Decaturville Cemetery
Decaturville, TN
Arrangements
Hardeman County Funeral Service
515 W. Market St., Bolivar, TN
Return to Obituary List
Chester H. Jennings
Funeral Services
FOR THE LATE
MR. CHESTER H. JENNINGS
1884-1958
LIBERTY C. M. E. CHURCH
Saturday, May 24, 1958
10:00 A. M.
Interment — Decaturville Cemetery
PARHAM FUNERAL HOME
In Charge
Masier of Cerenionies
Prof. C. N. Berry
[does not include obituary]
Return to Obituary List
Ruth S. Kizer
Funeral Services
for
MRS. RUTH S. KIZER
Saturday. November .10, 1984
2:00 P. M.
ST. MARK AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
PARSONS, TENNESSEE
REV. JAMES NESBETT, JR. PASTOR AND
REV. WILLIE WOODS, OFFICIATING
OBITUARY
Death claimed Mrs. Ruth S. Kizer Saturday, November 3, 1984 at the Decatur County General Hospital at 78 years of age. She passed from one plateau of life to await the resurrection of the next. She was born September 5, 1906 in Perryville, Tn., to the parentage of the late Cletus and Esther Scott.
She professed faith in Christ at an early age with the church at Perryville, Tn., she later moved her membership to St. Mark A.M.E. Church at Parsons, Tn., after moving her home there. She was a devoted member of the Church where she served for years as Church Secretary, Stewardess, Supt. of Sunday School, and Class Leader.
She was a retired employee of Slant & Slant Corporat ion of Parson, Tn.
Mrs. Kizer, was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Mr. Daniel (Bunk) Kizer of Lexington, Tn. To be the biological mother of none, she was the mother of many. But to them all she was ‘Mama Ruth".
She leaves to cherish her memories: four daughters, Mrs. Joyce Webster and Ms. Alma J. Scott of Parsons, Tn., Mrs. Linda Arnold of Lexington, Tn. and Mrs. Sonya Kaye Twyman of Ocean Side, CA.; one son, Mr. Lynn Ray Scott of Tacoma, WA; one foster son, Mr. Charles West of Michigan City, Ind.; two sisters, Mrs. Drucilla Houssel of Milan, Tn. and Mrs. Alma Taylor of Binghamton, NY; one brother, Mr.W. C. Scott of Detroit, Mich.; twelve grandchildren, two great grandchildren, fifteen neices, thirteen nephews, fourteen great neices, nine great nephews, two great great neices, two great great nephews; and a host of other relatives and many dear friends.
INTERMENT — PARSON CEMETERY
FLOWER BEARERS: Ms. Wanda Clark, Ms. Robbie White, Ms. Clara Pettigrew, Ms. Roxie Tippet, Ms. Robbie White, Ms. Sandra Young, Ms. Youlanda Brasher, Ms. Burmah McClain, Ms. Teresa Dabbs
PALLBEARERS: Mr. Timmy Sanders, Mr. William F. Dabbs, Mr. Gerald Bailey, Mr. James Pettigrew, Mr. Larry Holt, Mr. George Laster
HONORARY BEARERS: Mr. William Scott,Mr. Ray Vaughn, Mr. Cevil[?] Dabbs, Mr. Raymone White, Mr. James Mays, Mr. Cecil Phelps, Mr. Johnny Robertson
USHERS: Ms. Zenobia Pettigrew, Ms. Joyce Tinsley, Ms. Sophia Brasher, Mr. Ronnie Brasher, Ms. Zacula Tole, Ms. Linda Tinsley
Compliments of
Stephenson-Shaw Funeral Home
807 N. Hays Avenue
Jackson, Tennessee 38301
Stephenson-Shaw Funeral Home
Fifth & Luray Avenue
Henderson, Tenn. 38340
Mims & Shaw Funeral Service
1218 McLin Street
Humboldt, Tenn. 38343
Return to Obituary List
Ernest Junior McClain
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. ERNEST JUNIOR McCLAIN
1952-1973
FREEDMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Saturday, June 16, 1973
2:00 P.M.
Rev. W. W. Wortham, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
Obituary
MR. ERNEST JUNIOR McCLAIN
Yet time cannot steal the treasures that we carry in our hearts, though death comes at all seasons, and to all ages without a summons, but floats unseen on the breeze.
Thus it came June 10, 1973 at 4 p.m. at the Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio. He was born in Decaturvilie, Tennessee, March 5, 1952. He was loved by everyone. He was the son of Mrs. Mary Sue Walker and the late Mr. Ernest Pettigrew.
He professed a hope in Christ at an early age and united with Freeman Chapel A.M.E. Church in Decaturville, Tenn.
He was united in holy wedlock to Miss Burmah Ray Pettigrew of Decaturvile, Tennessee, May 24, 1971. To this union a son was born, Baby Earnest Lemonte McCiain.
Survivors in addition to his mother are: his devoted wife, Mrs. Burmah Ray McClain, one son, Earnest Lemonte McClain; step-father, John E. Walker; a sister, Miss Florence D. Walker; a brother, James Walker, all of Cleveland; 2 half-sisters, Miss Josephine Pettigrew, Miss Sharon Pettigrew; 3 half-brothers, Melvin, Timothy and Jimmy R. Pettigrew all of Parsons; grandmother, Mrs. Georgia Craig of Cleveland; great-grandmother, Mrs. Alice Shelton of Decaturville; 4 aunts, 1 uncle, 1 great-uncle, a host of other relatives and friends.
Pallbearers: Franklin Brasher, Kenneth Brasher, Ernest Brewer, Jr., Randy Hardin, Mike Scott, George L. Tole
Flower Bearers: Mae Brewer, Clair M. Brewer, Dorothy Jean Pettigrew, Addie McElrath, Flora Mae McElrath, Lunell Pettigrew, Mary Pettigrew,Patrica Scott, Barbara Ann Vaughn, Joyce Ann Walker
Ushers: Sophia Brasher, Rosie Johnson, Clara Montgomery, Zenobia Pettigrew, Pauline Phelps, Roxie Trippitt
Parham Mortuary
85 Barnhill St., Lexington, Tennessee 38351
Return to Obituary List
Jeff McElrath
OBSEQUIES
OF
MR. JEFF McELRATH
1894-1961
The Crowder High School Auditorium
Decaturville, Tennessee
Sunday, August 20, 1961, 2:00 p.m.
Rev. Sam Jones, Minister
Interment -- Decaturville Cemetery
PARHAM FUNERAL HOME
Parsons, Tennessee
In Charge
[does not include obituary]
FLOWER LADIES: Mrs. Dorothy Brewer, Miss Mary S. Brewer, Mrs. Lula M. Tole, Mrs. Florence Walker, Miss Sophia M. Walker
PALLBEARERS: Mr. Ernest Brewer, Sr., Mr. S. F. Dobbins, Mr. J. F. Fisher, Sr., Mr. Brown Pritchard, Mr. Ray Vaughn, Mr. Stone Walker
Return to Obituary List
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. CHARLIE W. MONTGOMERY, SR.
1871-1971
FREEDMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Sunday, February 21, 1971
2:00 P.M.
Rev. R. L. Vann, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
Parham Mortuary
Lexington, Tennessee
In Charge
[does not include obituary]
Pallbearers: Jackie Alsup, George Brasher, F. C. Alsup, Ronnel Miller, Herbert Craig, Brown Pritchard, Mike Scott
Flower Bearers: Arlie Brewer, Eassie M. Brasher, Anna Fisher, Veloria Fisher, Mildred Kindle, F. A. McElrath, Auline Scott, Lessie Yarbro
Ushers: Sis. Sophia Brasher, Sis. Geneva Menzies, Sis. Zenobia Pettigrew, Bro. Cecil Phelps
At Decaturville Negro Cemetery, Montgomery, Charlie W., Sr., 5/26/1871-2/17/1971, "Father" footstone
Return to Obituary List
Herbert Montgomery
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. HERBERT MONTGOMERY
1896-1970
FREEDMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tdnnessee
September 26, 1970
2:00 P.M.
Rev. W. W. Wortham, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
Parham Mortuary
Lexington, Tennessee
In Charge
Obituary
On Wednesday morning Sept. 23, the guardian angels came down from heaven and visited the Veterans Hospital n Nashville, Tennessee, and kindly sealed, the lips of Mr. Herbert Montgomery. His soul took flight to an unknown world, where there will be no more pain, no more tears shed because after 39 years of long suffering he gladly accepted the call.
Mr. Montgomery was born in Decatur County Jan. 5, 1896. He was the son of Mr. Charlie Montgomery and the late Miggie Broady Montgomery. At an early age he was converted and joined the Howard Chapel Methodist Church.
Mr. Montgomery was a veteran of World War I, he performed his active duty in France and Germany. He was wounded in action Sept. 9, 1918.
He was happily married to Miss Pauline Scott of Decaturville in 1922. To this union two children were born, Jessie Lee who died in infancy and Maxcine who lived to be 9 years of age.
In 1923 he united with Freedman's Chapel Church which he attended long as is health permitted.
Mr. Montgomery was loved by every one whom he came in contact. He will be sadly missed in the community in which he lived. He was highly respected by all citizens of Decaturville for his honesty.
He leaves to mourn his passing, his father, Mr. Charlie Montgomery Sr., Decaturville; 3 brothers, Charlie Montgomery Jr., Decaturville, William Montgomery, Chicago, Illinois and R. T. Montgomery, Decaturville; two sisters, Mrs. Clara M. Harden and Mrs. Maude Tole, both of Decaturville; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Ophelia Montgomery and Mrs. Novella Montgomery; 10 nieces, 12 nephews, a host of other relatives and friends. Mr. Montgomery said prior to his passing, "I am ready to go."
Pallbearers: George Brasher, Ernest Brewer Sr., S. F. Dobbins, Cecil Phelps, Stone Walker, Ray Vaughn
Flower Bearers: Arlee Brewer, Beadie Pettigrew, Margaret Pritchard, Auline Scott, Maggie W. Walker, Lessie Yarbro
Return to Obituary List
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MR. R. T. MONTGOMERY
1919-1978
FREEDMAN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH
Decaturville, Tennessee
Monday November 13, 1978
1:00 P.M.
Rev. Anthony Thomas, Minister
Interment: Decaturville Cemetery
OBITUARY
On Friday morning, November 10, 1978, the guardian angel came down from Heaven and visited the Veterans Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee and kindly sealed the lips of Mr. R. T. Montgomery. His soul took flight to an unknown world, where there will be no more pains, no tears, because he was prepared and only waiting to hear his master say. My Servant well done come on and join us around the Throne.
R. T. Montgomery, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Charley Montgomery was born in Decatur County, Decaturville, Tennessee, September 6, 1918, where he grew up and spent the remainder of his days. His life was blessed with care of loved ones and friends.
He was united in holy matrimony with Miss Novella McElrath in the year 1942. This union was blessed with six children, 3 sons and 3 daughters, one daughter preceded him in death.
Early in life he professed a hope in Christ and united with Freeman Chapel A.M.E. Church where he served faithfully during his active years and kept the faith until the master said "Well done."
Mr. Montgomery was a veteran of World War II. He performed his active duty in the South Pacific and returned home safely.
He was honored and respected by all with whom he came in contact, he was a lover of home. His favorite songs which he would sing every day was "Just A Closer Walk With Thee" and "Precious Lord Take My Hand."
He leaves to mourn his departure, a devoted wife, Mrs. Novella Montgomery; 2 daughters, Mrs. Novella Williams, and Ms. Barbara Montgomery, both of Nashville; 3 sons, Lonnie Montgomery, Detroit, Mi., R. T. Montgomery, Jr., Nashville, and James W. Montgomery, Decaturville; 4 brothers, Charlie D. Montgomery, Decaturville, William Montgomery, Chicago, Ill., Lawrence Fisher, Mardella, Md., and Earl Fisher, Alexandria, Va.; 2 sisters, Mrs. Clara M. Hardin, and Mrs. Lula M. Tole, both of Decatruville, 11 grandchildren, a devoted son-in-law, Arthur Williams; 2 daughters-in-law, Mrs. Virginia Ann Montgomery, and Mrs. Sandra Ann Montgomery; 5 sisters-in-law, 4 brothers-in-law; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
Pallbearers: Lewis Moody, J. B. McElrath, Thomas McElrath, Jack Brewer, Cecil Phelps, Brown Pritchard, Ray Vaughn, Stone Walker
Flower Bearers: Beatrice Funderburk, Mildred Kindle, Greta McElrath, Geneva Menzies, Lacula Tole Pettigrew, Pauline Phelps, Margaret Pritchard, Lessie Yarbro
Ushers: Sis. Sophia Brasher, Sis. Yulonda Brasher, Sis. Mary Irene Toliver, Sis. Sophia Marie Smith
Parham Mortuary
85 Barnhill St., Lexington, Tennessee 38351
Return to Obituary List