SAMPSON, Judge Emanuel J. (1811-1879)
From Barry Caraway
The Austin Democratic Statesman, Feb 16, 1879
DIED-At the residence of S. A. Posey, Esq., this city, last evening, at 9:15 o'clock, Mr. Emanuel Sampson, of Burnet county, brother of George W. Sampson and father of Mrs. Posey. The deceased will be buried from the residence of Mr. Posey tomorrow (Monday) at 11 a. m. The friends and acquaintances of the family are invited to attend.
The Austin Democratic Statesman, Feb 18, 1879
The Odd Fellows of this city yesterday followed to the grave the remains of Mr. Emanuel Sampson, of Burnet county, who died in this city on Saturday evening. Mr. Sampson was a Past Grand, and a brother of our fellow citizen, Mr. George W. Sampson.
Burnet Bulletin, Feb 19, 1879
The sad news reached us yesterday's mail, that Judge E. Sampson of Burnet, died at the residence of his son-in-law, S. A. Posey in Austin, on Saturday evening last at 9:15 p. m. In this death, the State, county and town of Burnet have suffered a severe loss. Judge S. wherever known was regarded as a man of spotless integrity, a kind, courteous, affable gentleman. We tender to his family our condolence and will give an extended obituary in our next issue.
Same Page, Burnet Bulletin, Feb 19, 1879
Tuesday 18. News of the death of Judge Sampson received. The town shrouded in sorrow at his loss, feeling that one of its strong pillars had fallen. The old citizens are rapidly disappearing.
SAMPSON, Mrs. E.J. -- January 1905
from the Burnet Bulletin, 5 January 1905
Mrs. E.J. Sampson Dead.
Mrs E.J. Sampson, one of the oldest citizens of Burnet died last Thursday and was buried Friday in the Old Cemetery. The funeral service was held at the Presbyterian Church, Rev. E. Bailey officiating.
She had been living in Burnet near a half century, and her husband was identified with most of the early enterprises of the town.
She was the mother of Mrs. T.E. Hammond and Mrs. A.R. Johnson, and a sister of Messrs Jeff, Harrison, Frank and Clint Breazeale and Mrs. D.L. Luce. She also leaves a wide circle of relatives of younger generations.
Mrs. Sampson was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and a lady of high culture. She was more than four score years old, and had observed many changes in this section of Texas, of which she could talk very interestingly.
Burnet Bulletin, Nov 20, 1924
Burnet's Oldest Citizen Dead
Last Saturday evening, November 15th, 1924, Aunt Sophia Sampson, (colored), Burnet's oldest citizen died. Her remains were interred Sunday in the Old Cemetery, just as the rays of the sun were hidden behind Post Mountain, near where she had resided for an average life-time. There were more white people at her burial than people of her own race, and as the earth fell upon her casket the solemnity of occasion was keenly felt by every one present. Her grave was almost covered by beautiful flowers placed thereon by white friends.
Aunt Sophia was born in Columbia, South Carolina, January 18th, 1832, making her at that time of her death 92 years, 9 months and 29 days of age. It is thought that she moved to Burnet in 1854, which would make her a resident of this place for 70 years. She was the oldest citizen of Burnet and had been a resident of this place longer than any other living person. Perhaps she resided in Burnet longer than any other person ever has. She was about the last of the old-time Negroes born in slavery, of this section, and she had numerous white friends who keenly regret her death. For one of her age her memory was remarkably keen and she could recount many things of interest connected with the early history of Burnet County. She is survived by several relatives in Burnet, who deeply mourn her departure.
Burnet Bulletin, Oct, 1925 - Transcribed By Barry Caraway
Mrs. J. J. Sarrels Dead
Mrs. J. J. Sarrels died last Sunday morning, October 4th, 1925, at her home in Burnet. The body was interred next day in the Odd Fellows Cemetery. Rev. C. C. McKinney pastor of the Methodist Church at this place, officiating. The casket was literally covered with flowers, showing the esteem in which Mrs. Sarrels was held by friends and neighbors.
Mrs. Sarrels was born in Ashville, North Carolina, on the 21st day of February 1842, making her in her 84th year at the time of her death. She was united in marriage to J. J. Sarrels in the year 1860. In 1870 they moved to Texas, and landed at Backbone Valley, Burnet County on Christmas day of that year, where they resided until 1883, when they moved to Burnet, and have been citizens of this place since, a period of 43 years.
Mrs. Sarrels is survived by her husband, who has been an invalid for several years, and by two daughters and three sons, as follows: A. L. Sarrels, of Los Angeles, California; Z. W. Sarrels of El Paso; H. O. Sarrels of Tucson, Arizona; Miss Kate Sarrels of Burnet and Mrs. A. E. Rummel of Bisbee, Arizona, a granddaughter, Mrs. Goldie Fay of Ft. Worth, who was reared in the Sarrels home, and was considered a daughter, also survives.
Mrs. Sarrels when a child joined the church and for three-quarters of a century lived a consistent Christian life, loved, honored and respected by all who knew her.
The bereaved family have the sympathy of our entire citizenship in their great loss, and they should be consoled by the thought that she is now reaping the reward of a life well spent while upon earth.
The following from a distance attended the funeral and some of them reached Burnet before Mrs. Sarrels death: Mrs. Jessie Rummel, Bisbee, Arizona; Mrs. Goldie Fay, Ft. Worth; A. L. Askew, a brother of deceased Marble Falls; Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Duckett, Fairland; Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Fowler, Marble Falls; Mr. and Mrs. George Askew, Marble Falls; Mrs. Westerman, Llano; Mr. and Mrs. Charley Tumlinson, Lake Victor; Mr. and Mrs. Francis, Lake Victor; Mr. and Mrs. Piper and Mr. and Mrs. Will Hall, Bertram; Mr. and Mrs. Hall, Marble Falls; Mr. and Mrs. Brady Hahn, Georgetown; Z. W. Sarrels arrived Tuesday from El Paso, and A. L. Sarrels was here some two weeks ago to visit his father and mother
From the Burnet Bulletin, Thursday, April 9, 1942
A GRAND OLD MAN DEPARTS THIS LIFE (with picture of Mr. and Mrs. M.G. Schnabel)
Tuesday afternoon, April 7th, 1942, at 4:30 o'clock, Burnet's oldest citizen, M.G. Schnabel, was called by death. He had been seriously ill of pneumonia for several days, and it was realized from the beginning of his illness that the end of his long life was rapidly approaching.
The funeral service was held at the family home Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 o'clock, conducted by Rev. J. P. Kidd, pastor of the Burnet Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Herbert Norris sang "In the Sweet Bye and Bye", accompanied by Mrs. Chas. Walker. Burial was in the Odd Fellows' Cemetery, under the supervision of the W. Northington Funeral Home. The active pallbearers were: Ross Johnson, Earl Foulds, Harry Galloway, Bunk Gibbs, O.A. Riggs, Willis Smith, Tom Wolf and Bill Chamberlain. His honorary pallbearers were all his friends. The flower bearers were Mrs. Bill Curry, and Misses Loreta Wagner and Barbara Burns. During the funeral service, all business houses in burnet were closed as a token of respect to Mr. Schnabel.
M.G. Schnabel was born in Rohbron, Germany on January 16th, 1846, making him at the time of his death 96 years, 2 months and 22 days of age. He came to the United States in June 1967 and had been a constant resident of this country since that time. He made one trip back to Germany, in 1900, to visit relatives and old friends.
Mr. Schnabel moved to Burnet in 1882, and on July 2nd, 1883, he was united in marriage to Miss Emma Gross of Austin, whose father, the late J.J. Gross, served the state of Texas as Land Commissioner from 1874 to 1878, and died in office. Mr. and Mrs. Schnabel made Burnet their home from that time until Mrs. Schnabel's death, which occurred July 24th, 1941, a period close to three score years. To this union, four children were born--George, who died in Fredericksburg, Texas in 1917; Charlet, Assistant Cashier of the First State Bank of Burnet; Herman, proprietor of Schnabel's Bakery at this place; and Ed, engaged here in the grocery business.
When Mr. Schnabel came to Burnet, he established a bakery and grocery business, which he conducted in a highly profitable manner until advancing age forced his retirement. In fact, he was one of the most successful business men that ever operated in this place. Every one had confidence in his integrity and his word was as good as a bond. Until his retirement, his was the oldest business in Burnet continuously operated by the same man and he was justly proud of the fact. His death removes the "Grand Old Man" of Burnet, whom every one loved and honored, and who will be missed by not only his loved ones, but many, many friends.
During his younger days, Mr. Schnabel travel extensively and had many interesting experiences. When he came to the United States in 1867, he made New York his home for three years. In the spring of 1870, he went to Chicago, and was there when the great Chicago Fire occurred. His next stopping place was New Orleans, Louisiana, where he went through a yellow fever epidemic and contracted the disease, remaining in a hospital four weeks. Regaining his health, he returned to New York, going on ship by way of Cuba. After remaining in New York for a time, he went to San Francisco, California. he then returned to New York, which was the home of his mother and three brothers. From New York he next went to Savanah, Georgia, and from there to Philadelphia, in 1876, and attended the World's Fair, commemorating the one hundredth anniversary of the independence of the United States from England. From Philadelphia, he went to Boston and from Boston back to Chicago, and then again visited New Orleans. From New Orleans he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, by way of a Mississippi river steamboat. From there he went to St. Louis, and from St. Louis to Dallas, Texas. He remained there one year and then with his brother, Albert went to Stephenville, Texas, where they established a bakery business, and where he remained for two years. His health failing, Mr. Schnabel went to Los Angeles, California, and then to San Francisco. He took a ship from there to Portland, Oregan, and then to Seattle, Washington. On account of the rainy season in that section, he was forced to go elsewhere, and returned to Texas, settling in Burnet, in 1882, where he has since resided continuously.
From the Burnet Bulletin, 30 July 1908
In Memory of Sister Fanny Cordelia Schooley.
"Another cord of love is woven into the land of cords which tend to draw us heavenward."
Fanny Cordelia Schooley, daughter of Dr. W. E. and Mrs. R. E. Jennings, was born in Burnet, Texas, Nov. 16, 1852, and died in the Oklahoma community near Paint Rock, Texas, July 1, 1908. She was married to Louis N. Schooley in Burnet, Dec. 29, 1880, where they made their home until 1906, removing to Runnels county, where they lived nearly a year, moving to Concho county, where she was living at the time of her death.
As a wife, her consecration met all the requirements of the divine law of reverence and fidelity to her husband. She was the mother of twelve children, six sons and six daughters, the baby girl being five years old. Besides her children and heart broken husband, she leaves six sisters, one brother, and her aged parents to mourn her death.
She was made to rejoice in the Savior's love about sixteen years ago, having united with the Cumberland Presbyterian church, of which her husband is also a member, remaining a loyal and devoted member till death.
During the last years of her life, she suffered very much with an internal cancer, but bore her suffering with the greatest of patience. She prayed that she might die easily, and quietly fell asleep in Jesus. When she realized that death was near, she tried so hard to talk with the family, but her voice was too weak and her strength too near gone.
Sister Schooley made friends wherever she went, and was loved by all. To have known her was only to love her. No one ever entered her home without a warm welcome nor left without feeling the warmth of genuine hospitality, so characteristic of the people of her ancestry. She loved her home and wanted to remain with them long&emdash;even till her little children were grown&emdash;but her sufferings became unbearable, and the Lord said "It is enough," and the body was out of prison and the angels came to bear the spirit home.
Late in the evening of the next day, near the setting of the sun, the aged mother, the broken-hearted husband and the weeping children together with a number of relatives and friends gathered at the Paint Rock cemetery to say goodbye to loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend, till we meet you in heaven.
A faithful loving wife, mother, daughter, neighbor and consecrated Christian woman has left us. Yes, she is gone; her voice can be heard no more. The children realize that although their father is still with them, their best friend is gone. The companion is left to travel the remainder of life's journey alone. Who knoweth the sadness of the broken heart of a man, save the man himself.
'Tis a broken home now, but it won't be long, if we will only live up to the requirements of God's law, until we shall all pass over the river of death, and there we shall all be united in a happy angelic band. Bereaved ones, our hearts go out to you in sympathy, but how empty seems the consolation we can offer. We can only commend you to the Lord, who has promised that "All things work together for good to them that love God."
"And though bowed down beneath the rod, Be still and know that He is God."
A Friend
Burnet Bulletin, June 25, 1925; From Barry Caraway
Mrs. James O'Donnell's Fathers Dies
Mr. Henry Sheeon, father of Mrs. James O'Donnell, died last Saturday, June 20th, 1925, at his home in Llano. The body was buried Sunday. Mr. Sheeon was 82 years of age. He is survived by his wife and six children. Mrs. O'Donnell and children of this place, and all the other children save one attended the funeral. Mr. Sheeon was an upright, honorable citizen , respected by all who knew him. The Bulletin joins others in extending sympathy to Mrs. O'Donnell and other bereaved relatives.
Burnet Bulletin, 21 June 1906
C. C. Shilling, a pioneer citizen of this county, died at his home in Hamilton Valley Monday afternoon. Mr. Shilling had been seriously ill for some time, and while his death was not unexpected it was none the less generally regretted.
His body was laid to rest Tuesday afternoon in the Odd Fellow's Cemetery, Elder R. T. Howell conducting the service. As a token of the esteem in which he was held, a very large concourse of people assembled to pay the last sad rites to the dead.
Burnet county contains no better man and citizen than was C. C. Shilling. During the one-half of a century, or longer, that he resided in this section, Mr. Shilling built up an enviable reputation as a law-abiding, honorable Christian gentleman. He leaves a large family and numerous friends to m ourn his death, to whom the bulletin extends condolence.
An obituary will be published in a later issue.
The Burnet Bulletin, 22 Sept 1876
We learn from Mr. Frank Vickery, who came from Lampasas on Monday last in company with Judge W.A. Blackburn, that Mark Short was shot and killed by Sam Denson in Lampasas, on Monday the 18th inst. It appears that Denson's father while sheriff of Lampasas county a year or so ago, was shot and wounded severely by Short, who fled and had been on the dodge until lately when he came in and gave bond. Young Denson stepped into a saloon on Monday last and told Short that he was "his meat," and fired one or more shots. Short ran into the street and Denson followed, shooting Short twice, which proved fatal. Short was supposed to be shot through the heart, and also in the neck and leg. Denson escaped.
SINGLETON, W. H. H. - 23 Sept
1919
Marble Falls Messenger Oct. 2, 1919.
W. H. H. Singleton, the subject of this sketch was born in Kentucky, Dec. 26, 1840. He moved with his father to Tennessee while quite young, from which state he moved to Arkansas and lived there three years; from there they moved to Texas. He, with his father's family, arrived in Burnet County Dec. 25, 1859. At the outbreak of the Civil War he, like many other true hearted Southerners, was bitterly opposed to the war, but could not raise a hand to strike his own state and, in 1861, he joined the volunteers and served with the infantry through the entire war. He served under Col. Wash Jones late of Bastrop County, and Capt. D. V. Grant, who died a few years ago at Liberty Hill, of whom he often spoke as being the best man he ever knew. He participated in a number of hard fought battles and came through safe and sound. He has two comrades who yet survive him in Burnet County, T. B. Lewis of Marble Falls and Bob Lewis of Bertram. He also served with H. W. Hall of Smithwick.
In 1865 he was married to Miss Martha J. Lewis of Burnet County and reared a large family, five of whom had preceded him to the unseen world, the rest of them being with him at the time of his death. He made a profession of the Christian religion early in life and has since been a consistent member of the Christian Church. He was a strong believer in the New Testament teachings.
For the last several years Uncle Will, as he was familiarly known among his many friends, has been in failing health, but, when age and disease take hold on one it is a battle in which man has never conquered and on Tuesday Sept. 23, 1919, just at 10:15 P. M. he breathed his last. He was laid to rest Wednesday evening in the Post Oak Bend Cemetery in the presence of a large crowd of relatives and friends there to await the final roll call, when the trumpet of the Lord shall sound and the dead in Christ shall rise. Hoping that we may meet him in that land of praise and song, the home of the redeemed, the city of the New Jerusalem where no storms ever beat on the glittering strand while the years of eternity roll. Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord.
Burnet Bulletin, 6 Dec 1881
Mrs. Frank Smith of Llano died on 24th ult. She has been sick a long time.
Submitted by Mary Beth Marchant <mbmjlm22@aol.com>, July 2001
J.M Smith was born at Oxford, Ga November 4, 1839, married Catherine Brown, June 20, 1861. He died at Houston, Texas May 20, 1910 and was buried at Burnet, Texas May 22, 1910.
When the call for volunteers came for the Confederate cause he joined the army. He served in Co. K, 31st Ga. Vol., being under General Gordon in General Lee's army. He served from September 5, 1861 to April 9, 1865. Was with General Lee's army when they surrendered at Appomatox court house. He was in seventy-two battles and skirmishes. Was wounded three times, but only once seriously. Was a prisoner at Ft. Delware. When he returned home he found his young wife, who was a bride of three months when he left, the only thing he had left, as his home and everything was gone. In a few years he came to Colorado County, Texas and lived there one year. He moved to Burnet in 1876. Lived there until 1897. He then moved to Turnersville. Since that time he has lived in Houston, Dallas, and Leander.
He had spent the winter with his daughter, Mrs. Eric Insall at Leander. On April 24, he started to Mobile to the U.C.V. reunion. On arriving at Houston, at his son's, he was too sick to proceed. Although not in bed, he continued under the weather for some two weeks. Suddenly about ten days before death, he was found to be very sick and erysipelas set up in his face. Later heart and kidney trouble set in which took him off. He passed away surrounded by part of his children.
He was laid to rest by the side of his wife, who proceeded him almost sixteen years.
He leaves eight children, twenty-six grandchildren and one great grand child to mourn his loss. One little girl went before, also several grandchildren. Two sons, four daughters, one daughter-in-law and two sons-in-law were at his funeral. Also one little grand son. (this is signed) ONE WHO LOVED HIM
Note from transcriber: This was my Gr Gr Grandfather. I have another news column in which his children are listed by name. These are: Mrs. Claudia White of Kenna, N.M.; J.F. and H.S. Smith and Mrs. Laura Oglesby of Houston, Texas; Mrs. Clara Insall, of Leander, Texas; B.F. Smith, of Hughes Springs, Texas; Mrs. Maggie Primm, of Texas, and Miss Beulah Smith, of Dallas, Texas
Burnet Bulletin, 19 Dec 1912
Lenorah Augusta Smith (nee McAnnally) was born December 24, 1868 in Washington County, Ill. In 1871 she removed with her father's family to Blanco County, Texas. On July 20, 1879 she was united in marriage to Thomas Harvey Smith. She departed this life October 14, 1912.
Her home was near Lake Victor Texas at the time of her death. She obeyed the Gospel and was united with the Church of Christ at an early age in life. She was the mother of several children of which only four children and her husband survive her to mourn their loss in her sad departure.
"Oh, Death!" What a sad thought, yet it is a debt we must all pay. But, how hard it is to part from our loved ones! The question often comes to our mind: Why do we mourn departing friends when they are prepared to meet their God in Peace? Are we not tending upward too? Do we not realize that each heart beat brings us nearer to Death and the Judgement, for with each of us it's only a little longer? A few more tears, and we have told our tale of years. Our book will be closed, our last prayer be said and we shall be numbered with the silent dead. With these facts before us, we can only point you to a merciful God, who has promised to temper the "winds to the shorn lambs."
Let us strive to make our "peace, calling and the election sure" that we may welcome the summons when it comes waft our spirits to that beautiful Beyond, for "death is only a dream."
A tribute from Bettie Oakley, Bertram
From the Burnet Bulletin, 30 Dec 1909
In Memory of Mrs. A.M. Smith
The subject of this sketch was born in Mississippi, January 4th, 1849, moved to Gonzales County, Texas, while young. She was united in marriage to A.M. Smith, April 4th, 1870; moved to Burnet County in 1884, where she has resided until her death, November 27th, 1909.
Mrs. Smith became a Christian at the early age of sixteen years, uniting with the Baptist Church, since which time she has lived a pure Christian life.
She was the mother of ten children, five boys and five girls, all of whom are living, except two daughters who died in infancy. After raising this large family, all of whom are honorable men and women, her mission on earth was fulfilled and she is called home to receive her reward and hear the welcome words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Home to that land where there is no more partings, pain or sickness, where all is joy, gladness and peace; where the angels are singing hosannahs of joy and glory forever; where her soul will be conducted into the prescence of the Redeemer of mankind there to live forever. Just before her last moments she said to sorrowing relatives and friends, "Don't grieve for me, for I am willing and ready to go." She bore her long illness as only a Christian can; no complaints and no murmerings.
Thus we must all pass through the "Valley of the Shadow."
"One by one they cross the river,
One by one they're passing o'er,
One by one the crowns are given
On that bright and happy shore."
A Friend
Burnet Bulletin, 8 Oct 1925; contributed by Barry Caraway
Mrs. W. T. Smith Dead
Mrs. W. T. Smith died Sunday, October 4th, at her home in the Mt. Blanc community. The body was interred Monday afternoon at the Mt. Zion cemetery, Rev. W. G. Griffith, Cumberland Presbyterian minister of Bertram, officiating.
Mrs. Smith was 69 years of age, and had been living at the place where she died since 1884, a period of 41 years. She is survived by her husband and five children. The children are Pinkey, George and Walter Smith, Mrs. W. V. Ellett and Mrs. Tom Cox. Another daughter, Mrs. Joe Ellett died in July, 1924. One of the sons George, is a Cumberland Presbyterian minister. All of the children are splendid citizens and held in high regard in the communities in which they reside.
It is with deep regret that the Bulletin chronicles the death of Mrs. Smith. He has known the Smith family from the day moved to the old Smith home on the head of the South Gabriel. When they settled at this place, they were the nearest neighbors, save one, of my father's family. In those days the writer was frequently in their home, and he formed an opinion of Mr. and Mrs. Smith that has never change. As a boy I thought Mr. Smith one of the best men, and Mrs. Smith one of the best women, but none of them have surpassed in manhood and womanhood, my opinion of Mr. and Mrs. Smith. They have lived the same high-minded and unassuming Christian lives as the years passed by that they lived, when as a small boy I first met and learned to honor and respect them. In Mrs. Smith's death, truly a good and noble woman has gone to her reward.
This writer deeply sympathizes with the bereaved husband and children in their great loss.
From the Burnet Bulletin, 28 May 1908
In Langford Notes dated May 17, 1908
the columnist writes of attending a wedding, which he described in detail. He continues,
..."On returning from the wedding, I met Mr. Tom Mallette. He told me that Aunt Sarah Smith, mother to Babe, Dalph and Elzie Smith of our community died this evening at 1 P.M. at Lampasas. She has been sick for a long time and her death was no surprise. She was aged, I think near seventy. She joined the M.E. Church, South, last summer at Lampasas. Her interment will take place at the home graveyard, near Langford, tomorrow evening. She has gone, we trust, from an earthly to a heavenly sabbath. How many die on the blessed Sabbath day.
Later--The sad, yet beautiful interment took place as appointed amid a great concourse of people, some from Lampasas, others from Oakalla.
Marble Falls Messenger, Jan 3, 1918 - From Barry Caraway
Our Dear Grandmother
Mrs. T. M. Smith, known thru out this county and surrounding counties as "Aunt Tennie Smith" was born in Marshall, Tennessee, April 16, 1843 and died Dec 20, 1917. She was buried at Toby cemetery by the side of her husband who preceded her to the better world 25 years Dec. 21. Rev. Morgan Morgans, pastor of the Christian church, of which she had been an earnest and consistent member since girlhood, paid the last tribute of respect to our grandmother.
She came to Texas with her parents when 8 years of age, and lived on the Trinity River in Leon county. There she grew to womanhood and was married to Francis Randolph Smith in 1861.
To this union eight children were born, seven of whom survive her, five boys and two girls: Henry and Titus Smith of Brownwood, Charlie Smith of Ballinger, Harvey and Ernest Smith of Toby, Mrs. J. W. Linzey of Austin and Mrs. W. T. Bridges of Granite Mountain. There are also a host of grandchildren and four great grandchildren to mourn the loss of their dear grandmother.
She, with her husband, moved to Burnet County and settled in Backbone valley in the year 1867, where she has since lived to see the last of her children married, with the exception of Harvey the oldest boy, who has made her a home all these years.
Our dear grandmother was only sick a short time, after contracting that fatal disease pneumonia, dying on the ninth day, when the Lord saw fit to remove her from our midst, and called her to that home above, prepared for those who love Him, and we know she loved him, for she gave the blessed assurance of her heavenly home the day her last boy arrived. She said she had always prayed that she might live to see all of her children again and that the Lord answered her prayers, and she was then ready to go.
How hard it is to think we have no grandmother now, we can never more hear the happy little voices shouting "we are going to see grandma" for there was nothing that made us happier than when we would get to the gate, to see her smiling face, coming to the door to meet us, and of course, to eat at grandma's was better than to eat at a king's table, for no one could cook like grandma.
How she loved her children and grandchildren, and how we equally loved her. She was always doing something to make some of us happy. Nothing describes better how we miss our angel grandmother than do these lines:
We miss thee from thy home dear mother.
We miss thee from thy place.
A shadow o're our life is cast.
We miss the sunshine of thy face.
We miss thy kind and willing hand.
Thy fond and earnest care.
Our home is dark without thee.
We miss thee everywhere.
How sweet she looked in her casket the day she was laid to rest. She had a smile on her face and looked like she was sleeping so peaceful, that we shouldn't grieve for her, knowing she was resting in the arms of her Savior. We cannot call her back to us, but we can prepare to meet her on the shores of Eternity, where there will be no more sorrow, no more tears, and my prayer is that each and every one of us will be prepared to go to that home above, "when the last trump shall sound and time shall be no more." Her Granddaughter and Namesake.
Burnet Bulletin, May 11, 1899; from Barry Caraway
Near Gabriel Mills, young Claude Snow, a boy about 13 years old, had his horse to fall on him in a collision with another and was killed, the horn of the saddle crushing his breast. He is [portion unreadable] the funeral sermon.
Burnet Bulletin, May 10, 2000; contributed by Barry Caraway
Olivia Lester Thurston Sport, 104, of Flatonia, died May 2, 2000. Born on August 15, 1895, in Burnet County, Olivia was the daughter of George and Mary Holland Lester.
She was known for activities in her Baptist Church. Olivia was the first woman in Burnet County to drive a car. She was a graduate of Burnet High School and taught at Oatmeal School in 1913. She married R. D. Thurston in 1918. Mr. Thurston practiced law in Central Texas. He preceded her in death. Olivia was also known for her artistic talents and charitable nature.
Survivors include her son, Dr. George B. Thurston and wife Carol of Austin; daughter, Edith Mannix and husband John of Austin; seven grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren, and numerous other relatives and close friends. Graveside service was held May 6 in Holland Cemetery with Bro. Max Copeland officiating. Interment to follow in Holland Cemetery. Under the direction of Clements-Wilcox of Marble Falls.
Burnet Bulletin, 24 June 1909
In obedience to the command of our Supreme Ruler, the Death Angel came Monday morning, June 14th, 1909, and claimed as his own, our friend and neighbor, Thomas Standefer.
The deceased was born October 13th, 1835 in Bastrop county, Texas, thus lacking only a few months of having spent 74 years in this beautiful world of ours. In 1861 when brave men were wanted to defend the cause of the South, he was among the first Texans to volunteer his service to his country and valiantly fought for the Southern cause, during the memorable four years of struggle. After shedding his blood upon the battlefields and being overpowered and conquered, he surrendered to his conquerors, and laid down his arms and returned home, to again engage in his chosen occupation, farming, which he never gave up until affliction became so great that he could no longer go.
His life was a model one; in war he was patriotic and brave, in time of peace he was conservative, mild and peaceful. He professed faith in Christ when about the age of 30, and soon after joined the Christian church in which he was an honored member at the time of his death. At the close of the war he came to Burnet County, and settled near the place where he died. In 1865 or 1866 he married Miss Martha O'Hair, daughter of Wm. And Annie O'Hair, and from this union ten children were born, five boys and five girls, four of whom have crossed over to that other shore. His former wife having died many years prior, he was united in marriage in 1897 to Mrs. Martha Roberts, who faithfully attended him to the end, and with six children, survives to mourn their loss. The surviving children are: Mrs. Minnie Bruton of Commence, Mrs. Lula Dawson, and Mrs. Josephine Howell of Scurry county, Mrs. Emily Tumlinson of Karnes county and Wm. and Edward of Burnet County.
He was a devoted husband, a kind and loving father, a good neighbor and Christian man. For more than 5 years his afflictions were severe, his body was racked with pain, and during the last few weeks of his life he was helpless, but retained consciousness up to the end. He bore his suffering only as a Christian can. So weep not, dear friends. Your tears should be tears of joy that he has exchanged his poor pain-racked brain for rubies of righteousness and a home in Heaven. Press on, dear friends and children, you will find him inside the Pearly Gates, with mother and loved ones gone before, waiting to welcome you as you enter in. Oh! The joy of such a meeting. No more parting, no more pain, no more tears, but joy forever in the mansions on high.
A face from us is gone,
A voice we loved is still,
A seat is vacant in our home,
That never can be filled.Long and painfully he suffered,
Never murmured at the pain;
He was conscious that the reaper
Soon would gather in his grain.He has crossed the shining river
Safe he rests on yonder shore;
He is in his home eternal;
With the loved ones gone before.How we miss thee!
How we miss thee!
There's no earthly tongue can tell
Yet we hope again to meet thee
Where with Jesus we'll ever dwell.Farewell--Farewell.
A Friend
Burnet Bulletin, Jan 3, 1924; contributed by Barry Caraway
Thomas Steffey died Monday night, December 31st, at his home in Bluffton section. He had been in declining health for about two years.
For many years Mr. Steffey was a resident of Burnet, occupying the position of section foreman for the railroad company. He was about 61 years old at the time of his death, and is survived by his wife and eight children. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and a good man in the fullest sense of the word, and was trusted and respected by every one who knew him. His many old Burnet friends will learn of his death with genuine regret and sorrow. The Bulletin joins in extending condolence to the bereaved family.
Burnet Bulletin, 6 Oct 1927
John Stone, a resident of this section for many years, died Wednesday morning. Mr. Stone was injured in an accident near Burnet two or three years ago from which he never recovered. He is survived by a sister, Mrs. Paulson of Dallas, and other relatives. Mr. Stone was born in Sweden and served in the Swedish army before coming to the United States. He tried to join the U.S. Army during the World War, but his age prevented, he being at the time perhaps 60 years of age. John Stone was a good, law abiding citizen and did not have an enemy in the world and his death is generally regretted. The Bulletins joins others in extending sympathy to the bereaved sister and other relatives.
Burnet Bulletin, Jan 8, 1879 - From Barry Caraway
DIED. -We are pained to be called upon to announce the death of Mrs. J. J. Strickland, so well and favorably known to many of the citizens of Burnet. She died on the 12th of Dec., 1878, at her brother's E. Martin, at Eagle Springs, McClennan county. She was a most estimable lady, and her stricken brothers and sisters have the sympathy of all who knew her.
Burnet Bulletin, March 12, 1903; From Barry Caraway
A Sad Death
Monday morning the sweet two month old baby of Mr. and Mrs. Sid Swinney died in Burnet from the effects of a large doss of morphine given it by its parents though mistake Sunday evening. Heroic efforts were made by Drs. Brownlee and Cheatham to save the little boy, but to no avail; the time had come for it to join the infant angels above. The parents are distracted with grief and the whole community is as a unit in deep sympathy felt for them. Mrs. Swinney's cross is double, as she only arrived in Burnet last week, in answer to the summons that her father, J. W. Smart, was dead.
Burnet Bulletin, June 25, 1925, contributed by Barry Caraway
S. S. Tanner Dies In Austin
Mr. S. S. Tanner, a prominent and citizen of the Tow Valley community died Monday in Austin, where he had been for some time under special medical treatment. The body was brought to Burnet Tuesday and interred in the Old Cemetery. Elder Vaughan, Christain minsiter, conducted the funeral service, at the Burnet tabernacle.
Mr. Tanner at the time of his death was 73 years, 8 months and 23 days of age. He is survived by his wife, a brother, A. Y. Tanner, and other relatives. Mr. Tanner moved to Burnet County when very young and has many friends thoughout this section of the State.
The Bulletin joins others in extending condolence to the bereaved relatives.
Burnet Bulletin, 28 Sept 1911
Died yesterday morning at her home in Kennedy. She was a daughter of Mrs. J. C. Greer of this place and with her husband and children lived in Burnet until a few months ago. She had been in poor health for many years. The Bulletin extends condolence to the bereaved relatives.
Marble Falls Messenger, 3 Jun 1909
Mrs. M. M. Tate died at the home of her son, A. C. Tate this morning at 3 o'clock, after a lingering illness of several weeks.
Mrs. Tate was probably the oldest citizen of this part of Texas, having moved here in 1854. She was a Missourian by birth, and was a daughter of a Presbyterian minister. She also was of that faith, but on account of having no church here became a member of the Methodist church. She was a devoted Christian and enjoyed church going more than any other thing. She was 84 years old
.Mrs. Tate has experienced many hardships since she came to Texas having come here in the days of the Indian depredations, but she bore her trials well and always looked forward to something better.
She was the mother of 12 children, 9 of which survive her. Those living are: John C., Allie, Hick, Jim and R. L. Tate, Mrs. S. A. Phillips, Mrs. Ida Latham, Mrs. Rosa Roberts, Mrs. Delia Lacy. An army of grandchildren and several great-grandchildren are among the many who loved "Granny Tate" and will mourn her death.
Mrs. Tate will be buried at Sandy Mountain In Llano County beside her husband, who some years ago passed to his reward.
The funeral procession will leave Allie Tate's ranch tomorrow (Friday) morning at 5 o'clock and reach Sandy Mountain at 3 o'clock in the afternoon. Friends and acquaintances are respectfully invited to attend. The funeral cortege will pass through Marble Falls about 7 o'clock a.m.
The entire community joins the Messenger in extending sympathy to the army of relatives and friends of the deceased.
(Added as a footnote in the scrapbook of Mrs. J. T. Hallford: "The Colorado River was on an 8' rise, so the corpse was taken across in a canoe and carried to cemetery--thus saving about 30 mile trip around by Marble Falls. Sandy Mountain Cemetery was only about a mile from Colorado River. My brother, Lee, rowed the boat across the river."--Believed to have been noted by Mattie Phillips Hallford.)
From the Burnet Bulletin, 7 Oct 1993
Rev. Elvie S. Taylor, 85, Austin, died Oct. 2. Services were held on Oct 4 at the First Baptist Church in Marble Falls with Bro. Max Copeland and Bro. Jack Shyburn officiating. Burial followed at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park near Burnet. Services were under the direction of Clements Wilcox funeral Home in Marble Falls.
Born June 8, 1908 in Beaukiss, Texas, Rev. Taylor was a Baptist minister for 62 years and 12 of those years was an employee of Buckner Baptist Boys Ranch. He pastored Cottonwood Baptist Church, Lawndale Avenue in Houston, First Baptist in Seguin, First Baptist in Premont, Prospect Hill and Highland Park, in San Antonio; twice at First Baptist in Ingram, Sunrise Beach and Reagan Wells. He held several interim pastorales in Highland Lakes area. He served on the Burnet-Llano Baptist Association's Missions Committee helping establish numerous churches in the Highland Lakes area.
Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Taylor, Marble Falls; 1 daughter, Delores Rae Ratcliff and her husband John Ratcliff, Monahans; 1 grandson, Reagan Ratcliff, Monahans; 2 brothers, Sam Taylor, Kerrville, and T.D. Taylor, Burnet; and numerous nieces and nephews.
From the Marble Falls Messenger, 5 Jan 1967
Mr. Homer Forney Teague, a resident of Bertram for the past year and a former resident of Burnet, passed away in an Austin hospital, Thursday, 22 Dec 1966. He moved to Burnet from Spur, Texas, three years ago. He was born at Holland, Bell County, Texas, July 9, 1885.
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 24, 1966 at 2:00 p.m. at the Clements Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. D.N. Davis officiating. Burial was in the Bear Creek Cemetery at Bertram under the direction of the Clements Funeral Home.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Betty Mae Teague of Bertram; five daughters, Mrs. Shirley McSpadden of Lubbock; Mrs. Bonnie Miller of Dallas; Mrs. Mollie Carr of Bertram; Mrs. Dorothy Stanley of ElMonte, California; Mrs. Agnes Hutton of Hawall; seven sons, Roy Teague of Sun Valley, California; Homer F. Teague of Travis Air Force Base, Dallas; Jimmy Teague of Lubbock; Alph Teague and Hulon Teague of Ft Riley, Kansas; Harlan Teague of South Pasadena, California; 21 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren.
Pallbearers were Dayton Reed Arnold, Hob Brewer, Ronnie Warden, Claude Teague, Frank Huggins, Murphy Chapman.
Burnet Bulletin, 29 Jan 1931
In Memory of Mrs. Mary E. Thompson
A hundred generations of men have appeared on earth, borne their port of the stormy scenes of life, and, blooming and fading like the foliage of each successive year, since the great prophet of Israel took up the wail that had come down to him from generations in the past, "We all do fade as the leaf". Still our hearts, in moments of sadness and deep thought, can find no better utterance that that in which the ancient Hebrew poured forth all the sorrows of humanity in his day.
Death is the final principle of life, the silent archer whose unerring shaft pierces at last the most unyielding breast.
The flowers bloom only to fade; the harvest ripens only to perish; the birds sing for a season, but all things that live in this world are appointed unto death.
Such was the passing of another truly good woman.
Mrs. Mary E. Thompson, the oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Watkins, was born on Nov. 27, 1888. Her childhood and young womanhood was spent in Burnet County. She was reared in a Christian home, and in 1898 at the age of 15 years, she obeyed the Gospel of Christ and was baptized by Bro. R. T. Howell, and throughout the remainder of her life, she lived an obedient child of God.
In July 14, 1901, she was married to J. A. Thompson. Eleven children were born to them. One died in infancy, but the remaining ones were privileged to be with their mother when the end came. Having lived a consistent Christian all her life, and recognizing the one power whose will governs all, she had no fear of death; and realizing that the end was near, she called every member of her family to her bedside only a few hours before she died, and told them how she would have them live.
Death occurred on December 22nd, at their home at Dripping Springs as a result of Flu, which terminated in pneumonia.
The ten children who live to cherish their mother's memory are: Mrs. C. O. Henshaw, Panhandle, Texas; Mrs. Houston Brown, Wichita Falls, Texas; Mrs. Austin Vines, Austin, Texas; Mrs. Clifford Cargill, New Mexico; and Marcum Clifford, Gladys Marie, John Nix, Evelyn Imogene, Glen Alice, and Jimmie Austin.
To the sorrowing husband and these children comes a might challenge to keep the faith. To you, from failing hands, she threw the torch. Be it yours to hold it high, for yet a little while and you too, shall take your places in the silent halls of death.
Beside the husband and children, she leaves seven grandchildren, a heartbroken father and mother and several brothers and sisters. Our debt to the living is greater than our debt to the dead, but to this sorrowing family we can only assure them of our deepest sympathy in this bereavement that has come to them, and may they find sweet consolation in the thought that earth's loss is Heaven's gain, and how in humble submission to the will of Him who is too wise to err and knows that it will be their blessed privilege to be with their loved one again in the endless eternity of God.
--Mrs. J. H. Jenkins
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Card of Thanks
15 Jan 1931
We wish to express to our friends the deep appreciation we feel for the many kindnesses shown us in the death of our wife, mother, daughter, and sister, Mrs. J. A. Thompson.
J. A. Thompson and children
J. C. Watkins and family
===================================
Unknown newspaper; contributed by Ruth Parker
Funeral services for Joseph L. Thompson, 64, will be held at Lampasas. The body will be sent there for burial by David T. Peel Funeral Chapel. Further arrangements are incomplete.
Thompson, who died at his home, 209 South Tancahua Street, Tuesday night, was a painting contractor. He had lived in Corpus Christi two years.
He is survived by his wife, a son, H. L. Thompson of Corpus Christi; four daughters, Mrs. Joyce Robinson of Corpus Christi, Mrs. J. O. Riggs of Lampasas, Mrs. George Wortham of Paris, Mrs. C. V. Reid of Ingleside; two brothers, Ed Thompson of Weslaco and Emmet Thompson of Little Rock, Ark,; and three sisters, Mrs. Sally Hay of Fort Smith, Ark., Mrs. A. Todd of Stratford, Okla., and Mrs. J. F. Bader of Detroit.
[Transcriber's note: Joseph & Eura Thompson lived in Lake Victor at one time. Eura is my dad's sister. They could have married there, but I have no proof of this. They are both buried in Cauble Cemetery. According to "Burnet County Cemetery Records, 1852-1982", Joseph was born 26 Sept 1879; Eura was born in 1881 and died in 1949]
Lola Christina Tomalo passed away on Wednesday, June 12, 2002. She was born January 4, 1907, at Lake Victor, Burnet County, Texas. Lola was one of 10 children born to Jimmie and Mary Watkins Thompston.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Peter Tomalo; one son; Jerry Vines of Oak Hill; sister Glen Alice Seaholm; grandson, Kelly Vines of San Marcos; daughters-in-law, Alisin Genfan, Rosemary Russell Vines and Hester Vines; numerous grand-children and great-grandchildren in California; and many nieces and nephews. She loved her dog Peggy.
Four sons, Clifford, Benjamin, Raymond, and Kinney Vines preceded her in death.
During World War II, Lola worked in the defense industry both in San Antonio and at Camp Mabry. She lived in England for three years and toured Europe with her husband Pete.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on friday, June 14th at Austin Memorial Park.
Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 North Lamar, Austin, TX 78705 (512) 452-8811.
Burnet Bulletin, Oct 9, 1924; From Barry Caraway
Mrs. H. P. Traweek Dead
Mrs. H. P. Traweek died Wednesday night, October 2nd, 1924, at her home in Burnet. She had been ill for some time. Funeral Services were held Thursday at the Presbyterian Church, Rev. Griffith of Bertram, conducting same. The body was interred in Odd Fellows Cemetery.
Mrs. Traweek was born October 25th, 1849. Had she lived 23 days longer she would have been 75 years of age. She was united in marriage to H. P. Traweek, on the 6th of February, 1872. She joined the Cumberland Presbyterian Church when 24 years of age, and for more than 50 years lived a consistant, Christian life. She was a resident of Burnet County for 43 years. Her husband died at this place in 1913, and had the same rugged integrity possessed by Mrs. Traweek. They had no children of their own, but reared and helped other children, who lived to call their names blessed.
So far as the Bulletin knows Mrs. Traweek is survived by only one near relative, Mr. J. A. Peoples of Taylor County, who spent considerable time in Burnet after Mrs. Traweek became so ill, and who was here when she died. Mrs. Traweek was a good woman in its truest sense, and many will join the Bulletin in expressing regret at her death.
Burnet Bulletin, 6 July 1905
T.C. Tumlinson, 82 years of age, died this afternoon at 10 o'clock at the home of his grandson, C.M. Tumlinson, Jr. in Lampasas. He had been in Texas about 60 years and had lived in Burnet for about 25 years. He was known to most of the older people of this section. C.M. Tumlinson and Joe Tumlinson of the Pomona Section and Jack Tumlinson of San Saba County are his sons and Mrs. Sue Farris, wife of Buck Farris of Harper, Texas is his daughter. He will be buried in the Tumlinson graveyard Wednesday morning at 11 o'clock.
