Will Book __, Page 79
April 6, 1791

In the Name of God, Amen.

I Ruben Craycraft, being through the abundant mercy & goodness of God though weak in body yet of sound and perfect understanding & memory do constitute this my last will and testament, and desire it may be received by all as such.

Imprimis I most humbly bequeath my soul to God my Maker, beseeching His most gracious acceptance of it through the all-sufficient merits and mediation of my most Compassionate Redeemer, Jesus Christ who gave Himself to be an Atonement for my sins and is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them and who I trust will not reject me, a returning penitent sinner when I come to him for mercy in this hope and confidence. I render up my soul with comfort hereby beseeching the most blessed and glorious to prepare me for the time of my dissolution and there to take me to Himself, into that peace and rest and incomparable felicity which He has prepared for all that love and fear His holy name, Amen.

Next, I give my body to the earth from whence it was taken in full assurance of its resurrection from thence at the last day. As for my burial, I desire it may be decent, without pomp or state at the discretion of my dear friend and my Executors hereafter named who I doubt not will manage it with all requisite prudence.

As to my worldly estate, I will and positively order that all my just debts be paid, together with all my sickness and funeral expense out of the same, that is to say, one brown mare about seven years old, one blue broadcloth coat and jacket, one corduroy breeches, one brown cloth coat and a white cloth jacket, one fine shirt, one pair thread stockings, one pair new shoes, one pair of silver knee- buckles, one cotton coat and three yards of homemade fustain; two pairs garters and one old saddle and saddle bags and bridle.

All of which the above mentioned articles I will and positively order the balance after the above mentioned debts or expenses is paid, to give the remainder to my father, William Craycraft when he makes application for the same.

And I do constitute Thomas McLaughlin and Thomas Murrell Executors of this my last will and testament and Trustees of the same.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 6th day of April in the year of our Lord, One Thousand, Seven Hundred and Ninety-one.

Ruben [X] Craycraft (seal) (his mark)

Witnesses:

Matthew Sims
Jacob [X] Graft
Elisha Walling (his mark)

Note: The word “my” before burial interlined before signing &c.

This Hawkins County Will was transcribed by one of the following volunteers:  Audrae Mathis; Gary Fletcher; Betty Mize; Diana Arney; Karen Negron, Kathey Welder.