Athens Messenger
Dec. 18, 1967
Contributed by Joyce Robinson

Sanns, James H.

Death of James H. Sanns
     The above announcement will be received with regret and sorrow by a large circle of friends, but by none more than the writer who knew him perhaps as well as any one outside of his immediate family. Born and reared among us he was known to all. An only son, he was given every advantage by his parents who were devoted to him. Their kindness to him was appreciated and he was a good a student, standing among the first in his classes always and during his school days was a great favorite with his class-mates. He graduated at two or three pharmaceutical institutions, one at Cincinnati and one at Baltimore and in large classes stood at the head. He was also awarded diplomas on several occasions for chemical work, and became an extraordinarily proficient druggist. He also early in life evinced a love and genius for music and it was ever uppermost in his mind—even to when the end came. His fine qualities and talents made him many respected friends.
     In January, ’78, he was married to Miss Maggie Martin, the estimable daughter of Capt. George Martin and Mrs. Elizabeth Martin who lived on Chickamauga, a short distance from the city. After the marriage Mrs. Martin made her home with them, Capt. Martin having passed away and she being her mother’s only companion. They have a beautiful home on Front street below Court on the river.
     Two children came to sanctify and make more pleasant their home. Wayne, a son about 14, and Louise, a daughter, aged 9. He was a partner in the extensive drug business of P. A. Sanns & Son until the death of his father who was widely known and greatly respected, succeeding him in the business. Last Thursday he was engaged at work in the cellar of the store arranging matters to put his soda fountain in operation. He had been complaining for some days of not feeling well, and should have really been home at the time. Becoming warm he threw off his coat and the cold damp air and draught in the cellar gave him an attack of pleurisy, his pain growing so severe he could hardly get home without assistance. Simple remedies were used during the night, but not improving, Dr. Harry Sanns, his cousin, was called to attend him and he seemed to improve up to Sunday evening, though the trouble developed into pneumonia. Sunday night he grew rapidly worse, but even up to this Monday morning there was no thought of a fatal termination by the family, and at about 7 o’clock Mrs. Sanns (his wife) left the bedside to go downstairs to get him a cup of coffee, leaving him with his mother, when he suddenly died. The blow is a hard one and the relatives will have the heartfelt sympathy of all. Complete arrangements have not been made at this writing for the funeral services. It is only known that they will be conducted Wednesday by Rev. F. P. Lutz, Rector of the St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, at the family residence under the auspices of the Ariel Lodge I.O.O.F., of which he was an esteemed and honored member.

    “We see not, know not; all our way
     Is night---with Thee alone is day;
     From out the torrent’s troubled drift,
     Above the storm our prayers we lift,
     Thy will be done!”

Funeral Obsequies
     The funeral services of the late James H. Sanns have been arranged for to-morrow at 2 o’clock in the afternoon Wednesday, April 25th, 1894. The religious exercises will be conducted at his late residence on Front Street by Rev. F P. Lutz, of the Episcopal Church. The burial will be at the Old Cemetery, conducted by Hayward & Son under the auspices of Canton Sanns, I.O.O.F., with Ariel Lodge I.O.O.F. The Lodges of Pomeroy and Middleport have been invited to attend.
     The Porter Band out of respect to the deceased will form part of the escort. The Pall Bearers will be Chas. W. Uhrig, Fred H. Kerr, D. A. Barton, E. E. Berry, W. L. Robinson, Dr. H. C. Brown.

April 25, 1894
Gallipolis Journal
Transcribed by Henny Evans

Saunders, Mrs. Margaret

Aged Resident Dead
     Mrs. Margaret Saunders, one of the oldest residents of our community, died last Friday at the home of her brother June Fulks of Proctorville, Ohio where she had been living for several months.  Her death resulted from infirmities due to old age.  She was the widow of William Saunders who died July 14, 1919. She was a daughter of the late Jacob Fulks, one of the pioneers of Guyan
Township. 
     Her brother, mentioned above, another brother James Fulks of this township, a sister Mrs. Delilah Dorsey of Steubenville, Ohio, and a large number of relatives survive her.  Her funeral was conducted from the Good Hope Church Saturday morning by Rev. J. H. Lunsford, and the interment made in the church cemetery in charge of undertaker Fuller of Proctorville.

GALLIA TIMES, Thursday,
June 3, 1921,
Crown City column, p. 8
Transcribed by Eve Hughes

Schaeffer, Lucy M.

Mrs. Lucy M. Schaeffer
     Mrs. Lucy M. Schaeffer, 51, died at 5:55 a.m. Wednesday at her home 1717 Morgan Street. She was born in Crown Point [sic] Ohio. She was a member of the Story-Hypes Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church.
     She leaves her husband, W.O. Schaeffer, one son Paul Schaeffer of Springfield, two brothers John and Howard [Harvey] Fulks of Millers, five sisters, Mrs. Effie Lewis of Ironton, Mrs. Maggie Williams of Proctorville, Mrs. Emma Caldwell and Mrs. Betty Dillon of Crown City, and Mrs. Letha Swain of Kneugen (Kanauga] Ohio.
     Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Story-Hypes Church. Burial will be made in Ferncliff Cemetery

Springfield Daily News
Thursday, July 9, 1925
Submitted by Eve Hughes

Schoonover, Bobby L.

     BOBBY L. SCHOONOVER Bobby L. Schoonover, 66, of 628 Burnett Rd. Kanauga, died Monday June 1, 1992 at Holzer Medical Center, following a brief illness. He was born on June 20, 1926 in Kanauga, son of the late Walter H. Schoonover and Thelma Daugherty Schoonover of Kanauga.
     Mr. Schoonover a Gallia County naitve, was a retired employee of the Mississippi Valley Barge Lines, retiring June 1, 1985. He was a member of the Huntington and Meigs County Beegle clubs and attended the Gallipolis Christain  Church. He was a World War ll Navy veteran, Kentucky Colonel, and was very active in Boy Scouts.
     Survivors include his wife, Frances Saunders Schoonover; four sons, Donald Lonnie Schoonover, David Schoonover both of Gallipolis, Bobby Lee Schoonover of Point Pleasant, and Jeffrey Lynn Schoonover of Jacksonville, Fla., 11 grandchildren, two brothers; Walter Schoonover Sr., and William H. Schoonover, both of Gallipolis; and one sister Mrs. Lester (Wanda) Lee of Kanauga. Services will be held 1 p.m. Thursday at Waugh-Halley-Wood Funeral Home, with Denny Colburn officiating. Burial will be in Ohio Valley Memeory Gardens. A grave side military falg presentation will be made by VFW Post 444. Friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. 

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Transcribed by Marian Baker Schoonover

Sheets, Darlene Alice

     Darlene Alice Sheets, 95, went to her heavenly home on Thursday, at the home of her daughter, Alice Gail Thompson, with whom she made her home.
     Darlene was married to Brady Sheets on February 6, 1932, in Gallia County, Ohio, and he preceded her in death on June 19, 1998. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law Cline Thompson on March 30, 2000 and by four brothers and by four sisters.
     Darlene was a kind, caring, and loving mother and grandmother of her daughter Alice Gail Thompson of Grove City, OH, granddaughter, Cindy (Guy) Forsythe of Sedona AZ, greatgranddaughter Mindy (Ronald) Koshman of Galena OH; greatgrandson Tyler Forsythe of Denver CO. She is also survived by special nieces, Donna (William) Shaw and Lona Mae Sager; and nephews, special friends and care givers, Marie Kuhlman, Vickie Harvey and Dee Jones; and her favorite companion, Sugar, a West Highland terrier.      Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Sunday, March 19, 2006 at Willis Funeral Home, Gallipolis with Rev. Gary Warner officiating. Burial will follow in Ridgelawn Cemetery. Friends may call on Sunday from noon until time of the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Darlene's memory to Victory Baptist Church. Please visit www.willisfuneralhome.com to send e-mail condolences.

The Columbus Dispatch
19 March 2005
Submitted by Eve Hughes

Sheets, Lorena

Lorena Sheets, 22 And Ross Child Die In Burning Of Davis Home
Little Daughter Of Rural Mail Carrier Heroically Saved
     Two lives were lost when fire destroyed the home of Rural Mail Carrier and Mrs. William M. Davis at Bladen after 8:30 o’clock this morning. The dead are their daughter, Mrs. Lorena Sheets, 22, wife of Kenneth Sheets, and their grandson, Rodgers Ross, who would have been four years old next February.
     Mrs. Sheets is believed to have perished while looking for her little nephew. She was last seen when she came to a second-story window carrying her youngest sister, Linda Joyce Davis, aged five. She thrust the child through a window to a roof from which she was soon carried to the ground on a ladder.
     Little Boy Vanishes
     But a moment before, the boy had run downstairs and into the kitchen and told his grandmother he was choking. Then he suddenly disappeared and may have run into the inferno.
The father, who was unhurt and is believed to have been coming from his farm back of the village when the fire broke out, wrapped the little girl in a blanket and rushed her to the Holzer Hospital without attempting any remedial action. (A wise thing to do, hospital physicians said later). Then he hurried back to his distressed family.
     The girl’s right arm and right leg were severely burned and there were seared splotches on her body, said Dr. Paul C. Foster. At 11 o’clock she seemed to be comfortable and her recovery is confidently expected. At noon, it was learned that Mrs. Sheet’s body and a large section of the torso of the child had been recovered.
     The destroyed home was on of the best in the village. It was a large two-story frame building and stood across the road from Neal’s store. It was erected by Mr. Davis soon after the course of the road wa changed through Bladen.
     Mrs. Sheets, who had been working in Detroit, had come in the parental home Tuesday, a neighbor told The Tribune. Her husband was said to be with his parents near Mercerville.
After Mrs. Sheets lifted her sister through the window she turned back, presumably in quest of the Ross child, and was not seen again.
     Linda Joyce, on reaching the nearby roof, was urged to jump into the outstretched arms of Dan Klingensmith, who lives next door, but she was afraid to make the leap. Thereupon Mr. Klingensmith rushed home and brought a ladder to the scene, The Tribune heard.
The Ross child was a son of Roy Ross, who has been in Columbus lately; and the latter is a son of Mr. and Mrs. B. W. Ross, who lived on Swan Creek back of Bladen.
Davises have two sons in the armed services.
     The entire community was shocked by the dual tragedy, for everyone thereabouts knows and esteems the mail carrier and his wife and their family. The head of the family is a brother of Dr. Walter S. Davis, former county commissioner.

Gallipolis Tribune
Undated, mid-1940s
Transcribed by Lew Casey

Shoemaker, Isaac

Gallia Countian Killed When Train Hits Car
     Isaiah Shoemaker, 63, a resident of the Poplar Ridge neighborhood, Gallia County, was instantly killed Tuesday of this week near Marysville, when the automobile in which he was riding with his sister-in-law, Mrs. Laura Shoemaker, who was also killed, when their machine was struck by a train.
     Mr. Shoemaker, who was blind, had arrived at the home of his brother John, in Union County, last Sunday for a visit. He had been cared for at the Gallia county home for years, Superintendent Thomas McClaskey reports, going about once a year for a visit with his brother.

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
October 03, 1931, Saturday
Submitted by Teresa Herrmann

Shoemaker, Ruel Sylvester

     Ruel Sylvester Shoemaker, aged at death 66 years and 22 days, was born at Malaby, Ohio, April 19, 1859, and died May 11, 1925. He was the son of Moses Shoemaker and Kiziah Boice Shoemaker, who were among the early pioneers of Addison Township. March 14, 1890, he was united in marriage to Martha Edna Nelson by the Rev. Harkins at Eno. To this union were born a son, and a daughter, Roy G. and Mrs. Alva Grover, both of Gallipolis, Ohio. Theirs was a happy family, and with a true father's longing his striving was to give his children higher advantages than were his own, and he lived happily to witness the fulfillment of his desire. With a proud, though anguished, heart he saw his son go forth to war and with fatherly tenderness received into the sanctuary of his heart and home his son's girl-wife, who found sweet abiding there and who remained dutiful and constant as his own.
     In January, 1917, during a revival conducted by Rev. Ewing at Bulaville, he was converted and became a member of the Christian Church of that place. He remained true to his conversion, and besides taking an active part in his own church, found time for kindly interrest in other Sunday Schools and churches of the township. He was also a member of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics of Gallipolis. For several successive years his township honored him with office.
     Almost his entire married life was spent on his farm near Addison, where his stalwart industrious figure driving a team of grays became a familiar picture to the surrounding neighborhood. Only when compelled by his long illness did he relinquish active work on the farm. Generous, pleasant of manner, hospitable, he was widely known.
     The brothers left to mourn him are Joseph of White Oak, Moses of Dayton, and Horton of Gallipolis; the sisters left are Mrs. Leah Jolly of Dayton and Mrs. Mary Amos of Addison. One brother and two sisters gone before are reminders that the circle broken here may be completed there. He has left to mourn his loss a loving wife and a devoted son and daughter, a son-in-law and a daughter-in-law, and a little grandson, Alva Glen, who came to be the delight of his life. His devotion to his grandson was a beautiful thing and the poet's thought must often have been his own.
             "Little grandson on my knee,
              Thou art my immortality,
              For my blood when I am gone
              In thy warm veins shall still run on."
     For more than four long years he suffered keenly, yet was bravely patient. All the loving care a wife could give was given him, all the tenderness and care a son and daughter could bestow were his, all that hands or heart could do was done, yet greater than all these are the love and wisdom of the Power to which he bowed and whose final call he answered May 11, 1925
             "Twilight and evening bell,
              And after that the dark!
              And may there be no sadness of farewell
              When I embark.
              For tho' from out our bourne of time and place
              The flood may bear me far,
              I hope to see my Pilot face to face,
              When I have crossed the bar."

The Gallia Times, Thursday
May 21, 1925
Contributed by Bette Shoemaker Goodrich

Shuler, William Maurice

     William Maurice, son of Jeremiah and Rosanna McCarty Shuler, was born Jan. 9, 1843, in Cheshire Township, Gallia Co., Ohio and departed this life June 6, 1911, near his birthplace, aged 68 years, 4 months and 27 days.
     He was united in marriage to Elizabeth C. Hawley to which union was born ten children, four sons and six daughters. Two sons and one daughter have crossed the river before him. The wife and seven children, Mrs. Nannie Rowley, Mrs. Mollie Hardway, William J. and Jerry of Guy, New Mexico, Mrs. Julia Berry and Miss Rose of Cheshire and Miss Florence at home survive him.
     In his home life he was a tender, devoted husband and father. He leaves a family of well educated, Christian children. The mother, seven children, four grand-children, four sisters, Mrs. G.M. Vance, and Mrs. Frank Swisher, Mrs. J.H. Askrer of Davenport, Iowa and Mrs. Samuel Fulton of Brunswick, O., and numerous other relatives and friends are left to mourn a sad loss, but they mourn not as they that have no hope for the greatest consolation is theirs. He lived for Christ. He was faithful to the end. There is laid up for him a crown of life.
     At the age of 21 he joined the Ohio National Guard, was a private in Capt. Amos Mauck’s Co. A. 16th regiment and served until honorably discharged. He afterward joined the 141st O.V.I.
Later in life at the age of forty he joined that other army, the great army of the Lord with Jesus as his captain and was an ardent, valiant soldier of the cross. He loved the cause of Christ and was faithful in attendance at the services in the house of God. He united with the Second Kyger Freewill Baptist Church and was faithful to his church until called home. His last Sabbath on earth was spent at the house of God. It seems that he knew the time of his departure was near at hand, for he spoke impressively to the young people urging them to live for God and he told them that would be his last Sabbath with them.

Thy will be done! I will not fear
The fate provided by thy love;
Though clouds and darkness shroud me here,
I know that all is bright above.

Father, forgive the heart that clings
Thus trembling; to the things of time;
And bid my soul on angel wings,
Ascend into a purer clime.

There shall no doubt disturb its trust.
Sorrows dim celestial love
But these afflictions of the dust
Like shadows of the time remove.

     The funeral services were held at his late home last Sunday afternoon conducted by Rev. Geo. Sprouse of Cheshire. Burial at the home cemetery by Undertaker DeMaine, under the auspices of the K.of P. Lodge of which he was an honored member.
The pall bearers were David Lasley, Joseph Roush, E.T. McMillin, John Reynolds, John Scott and A.J. Winegar.
     One son Jerry came from Guy, New Mexico, and was present at the burial.

CARDS OF THANKS
     We wish to thank the kind friends, the K. of  P. lodge members, the minister, the choir, who spoke words of comfort and rendered valued assistance to us at the time of the death of our beloved husband and father.

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
June 7, 1911
Transcribed by Sandy Bledsoe

Sibley, Jonas

JONAS SIBLEY DEAD
Well Known Gallia Man Expires Suddenly Wednesday
     At 9:15 this morning Jonas Sibley of Green township, expired suddenly of heart failure after a brief illness. He had not been in good health for several years, but most of the time was able to be up and about, and was in Gallipolis a week or two ago. Mr. Sibley was 75 years of age, and leaves a second wife, and the following children by his first wife, who died a few years ago. Reuben, of Iowa; Miss Katie at home; and married daughters Mrs. Ed. Smeltzer, Mrs. Turley Gills, Mrs. John Hamilton, Mrs. J. A. Brothers and Mrs. Henry Halley, all of Gallia county. Funeral arrangements had not been made at this writing, but the body is in charge of Hayward.
[Jonas Sibley's first wife was Christina Smeltzer, daughter of John and Margaret {Kerns} Smeltzer.]

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday, August 26 1914, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltze

Sigler, Garnet

MRS. SIGLER DIES AT 85
     Mrs. Garnet Sigler, 85, a resident of 238 First Ave., died at 3:25 a.m. Tuesday. She had been in failing health for several years.
     Mrs. Sigler was born in this county Dec. 31, 1880, daughter of the late Jacob and America Northup Baker. Her marriage to W.W. Sigler took place April 19, 1916, and he survives. She was preceded in death by three sisters and two brothers.
     She was a member of St. Peters Episcopal Church, French Colony Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Gallipolis Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star.
     Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Wetherholt-Elliott Funeral Home. Rev. Albert Mackenzie will officiate, and burial will be in Mound Hill Cemetery. The family requests omission of flowers. Friends may call at the funeral home after 7 p.m. Thursday.

The Gallipolis Tribune
February 2, 1966
Submitted and Transcribed by Joanne Galvin

Simmons, Fred L.

Local Resident’s Soldier Brother Dies In Germany
     Mr. and Mrs. Charles Simmons, 125 Pine Street have returned from Grayson, Ky. Where they were called last Tuesday by the death of Mrs. Simmons’ mother, Mrs. W. T. Utley, who had visited her on numerous occasions. They were accompanied by Mrs. Keith King, sister of Mrs. Simmons.
Wednesday morning, June 18, a telegram came to the Simmons family from the War Department telling of the death of Cpl. Fred L. Simmons, who had served since Sept. 14, 1941 in the Army Air Corps. He was flying a transport plane in Germany when death came.
     A brother of Mr. Simmons and Mrs. King he was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. John Simmons of Grayson and was born March 12, 1920, so was a little over 27 years of age.
He is survived, in addition to the parents and the bother and sister here, by these other brothers and sisters: Frank and Dan Simmons, Mrs. Orville Burnett and Mrs. George Voreh. He had many friends in a n around Gallipolis having lived for several years with his brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Keith King and working for the Covert Baking Co. at Middleport.
     The body will be sent home and is expected to arrive in four to six weeks. No definite arrangements can be made but it is known that the funeral service will be held in the Methodist Church at Grayson and burial will be in Grayson Memorial Park with military services at the grave. Funeral Director C. W. Henderson of Grayson will be in charge.

Gallipolis Tribune
19 June 1947
Transcribed by Lew Casey

Smeltzer, Charles L.

LT. CHARLES L. SMELTZER KILLED IN PLANE CRASH
Forced Landing Is Made In Blackfork; Body, Plane Crushed; Rio Grande Youth Served 4 Years In Navy Air Corps And Expected To Fly Transport Plane--Funeral Is Set For Sunday
     Lt. Charles L. Smeltzer, 26, of Rio Grande, recently discharged from the navy air corps, after fours years' service, was instantly killed at 8:15 last night in a forced landing of a naval training plane at Blackfork, Lawrence County, near the Jackson County line. His plane struck the hard-surfaced road in front of the Blackfork school house. His head and body and limbs were crushed by the impact, but persons who witnessed the tragedy quickly lifted the mangled body from the demolished plane, fearing it might catch fire.

Short of Gasoline
     Charles Smeltzer was the only son of Mrs. Mae Smeltzer, whose home is in Rio Grande and who is now teaching in the Cincinnati public schools. Lawrence Smeltzer, a teacher in the local school, is the dead youth's father. It is said that Smeltzer was forced to land because of a shortage of gasoline. He circled the village of Blackfork several times and made it pretty clear to the villagers that he was in distress. They, responding to an obvious appeal, started fires at the roadside and otherwise iluminated the scene of a deplorable tragedy-to-be. There is reason to believe that Lt. Smeltzer had purchased this plane in Missouri and it is surmised that he hoped to land here. But definite information is lacking as to the plane's ownership or as to the flier's aims. Monday, he went to Chicago, returning to Rio Grande Tuesday night, it was learned from Harry Cameron, whose wife is a sister of Mrs. Smeltzer. Wednesday, he and Bob Wood left in a car for some Missouri city to look at planes. Bob brought the car back from some point not learned.
     The log of Smeltzer's plane shows that he had stopped first in Louisville, then in Columbus. It is known that he did some shopping in Columbus but it is not known when he left there or what his destination was. Lt. Smeltzer was discharged from the navy about Christmastime. Later he reenlisted in the reserves and only last week completed some sort of training in Columbus to prepare him for flying a plane for some transport company. He was a graduate of Rio Grande College and was attending Ohio State University at the time of his enlistment. He was a quiet, reserved young man of the most exemplary habits; and his sudden and untimely end has prostrated his mother and shocked and saddened a wide circle of friends and admirers.
     Harry Cameron and Patrolman Pierce D. McCreedy went to Blackfork last night. From there the former went on to Cincinnati and brought Mrs. Smeltzer here early this morning and she is now at the Cameron home. Meanwhile, the body was removed to the Kuhner mortuary in Oak Hill but the funeral will be in charge of Steve Thomas of Thurman.
There will be a short service at the Cameron home at 2 p.m. Sunday. Then the body will be taken to Rio Grande for final rites at the Calvary Baptist Church. Burial will be in Mound Hill Cemetery. The following were selected as pall bearers: Ernest and Eugene Criner, Gallipolis; Bob Wood, Rio Grande; Maurice Lowks, Sherwood Walker and Bill Wood, Columbus. At noon tentative arrangements were made for a military funeral.

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Friday March 1, 1946, p. 1


More Is Learned About Smeltzer's Fatal Accident
     An investigation made by Harry Cameron and others of the plane crash that cost Lt. Charles Smeltzer his life has revealed that it was not caused by a lack of gasoline. He had eight gallons left when his plane came down in the road near the Blackfork school last Friday night.
     Smeltzer had bought the plane that day at Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and had left there at 2 p.m. Central Standard Time for Sullivant Ave. airport in Columbus. It is presumed that he intended to fly to Huntington and then to Gallipolis and it is surmised that he had one hour less of daylight than he had counted on; that darkness had descended on him sooner than he had expected because his watch showed it to be shortly after 7 p.m. instead of 8 p.m. when he first appeared over Blackfork. The left wing of his plane struck the ground a moment after he veered his course to miss the tops of some small trees and the crash came a moment later, Mr. Cameron said.

The Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Wednesday March 6 1946
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Charles

C. SMELTZER DIES TUESDAY AT DAUGHTER'S
Leakage of the Heart Takes Mechanicsburg Resident--Funeral Later.
     O.C. Hupp & Son, undertakers of Mechanicsburg, received a telegram Tuesday morning, telling of the death of Charles Smeltzer, a resident of N. Main street, Mechanicsburg, at the home of a daughter in Gallia, in the southern part of the state, during the early morning hours Tuesday. Leakage of the heart was the cause of death.
     The deceased was 60 years of age, a retired farmer and a prominent member of the K of P Lodge. He had been in poor health for some time and had gone to his daughter's home thinking the change in climate might benefit him. He is survived by a daughter, Miss Blanche Smeltzer, of Mechanicsburg, Mrs Bessie Brown, a daughter in Springfield, and several children by a former marriage. His second wife preceded him in death several months ago.
     Walter Hupp member of the firm of Hupp & Son left Tuesday for Columbus and thence to Gallia where he will secure the body and bring it back to Mechanicsburg. Funeral arrangements will be made through the columns of this paper at a later date.

The Urbana Democrat
March 1921
Contributed by Eve Hughes

Smeltzer Funeral Held
     The funeral of Charles Smeltzer was held from the M. E. church on Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock and was largely attended by relatives and friends. Rev. J. W. Patton and the K of P lodge conducted the service. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. The remains were laid to rest in Maple Grove Cemetery.

Urbana Daily Democrat
Saturday March 26 1921
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Darius M.

D. M. Smeltzer Dead
     Darius M. Smeltzer, 73, who has lived in town several years, and before that was a well known farmer of Green township, died Monday night at 9:15 after a week's illness. He had been suffering with hardening of the arteries.
     Mr. Smeltzer lost his wife fourteen years ago, and five children survive him--Mrs. Edgar Henshaw and Mrs. Will Harrison of Green township, Mrs. Lewis Grube and Frank H. of Gallipolis, and Mrs. Jerome Wood of Everett, Wash. One brother, Lewis, and a sister, Mrs. John Swigert, reside in Gallipolis; and a brother, H.C., lives in Dighton, Kans.
     The funeral will probably be Thursday afternoon, from Lewis Grube's residence, with interment at Mound Hill by Wetherholt. Mr. Smeltzer served in the Union Army during the War.

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday, November 19, 1915, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Emma Echelmyer

WIFE OF TOM SMELTZER, 77, DIED SUNDAY
Funeral Service Will Be Held 2:30 Wednesday, Interment At Mound Hill
     As Christmas Day drew to a close, so did the life of Emma Echelmyer Smeltzer, wife of Thomas E. Smeltzer of 133 Third Avenue. Although Mrs. Smeltzer has been failing in health for a number of years, her last illness was of comparatively short duration, but filled with intense suffering and pain which she bore with the utmost patience and was cheerful until Death called to her just before midnight Christmas Day.
     Mrs. Smeltzer was in her 77th year, having been born Jan. 11, 1861. Besides her faithful husband, she also leaves two most devoted children, Sydney Elizabeth, wife of Earl V. Campell, and Robert Thomas, who feel deeply the loss of a priceless treasure; a sister, Mrs. Carrie Smeltzer, of Gallipolis and one brother, Charles F. Echelmeyer, of Oak Hill, besides a countless number of other relatives and friends.
     Funeral services will be held from the late home 2:30 o’clock Wednesday by Rev. Walter Sadt of Pomeroy, pastor of the German Lutheran Church of German Ridge, of which Mrs. Smeltzer had been a member since early girlhood, interment following in Mound Hill Cemetery by Geo. J. Wetherholt & Sons. Pallbearers as follows: Will Neibaum, Fred Echelmeyer, Harry Smeltzer, Rudy Echelmeyer, Alva Meyers and Francis E. Kerr.

Undated newspaper clipping
Death approximately 1938
Transcribed by Joanne Galvin

Smeltzer, Esta

MRS. SMELTZER DEAD
     Ms. Esta Smeltzer, formerly of Green Township, died the latter part of the week at her home in Chillicothe. The body was brought here for interment in Mound Hill Cemetery following services at the home of W. N. Smeltzer Tuesday.

[Esta was the daughter of Jacob Rader and the wife of James A. Smeltzer.]

The Gallia Times
Thursday October 5 1922
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Frank

DEATH OF PIONEER RESIDENT
Frank Smeltzer Died At 1 O'Clock This Afternoon After Long Illness
Eighty-Two Years of Age and Most All His Life Spent in Sidney
     Frank Smeltzer, widely known resident of Sidney, passed away Thursday afternoon at one o'clock at his home on north Main avenue. His death followed an illness of a year, resulting from several strokes of paralysis. The deceased was eighty-two years of age. He had spent all but five years of his life in Sidney. He was born in Gallipolis, and at the age of five years, came with his family to locate in Shelby County, on the old Smeltzer farm northwest of Sidney. The family travelled the distance in a covered wagon. There were nine children in the family, of which Mr. Smeltzer was the last to pass away. Five of the children were contractors and builders, and many of the homes in Sidney are monuments of their work.
     He was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Ensminger of Belmore, and they were privileged to celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary together, that event taking place last fall. They were the parents of five chldren, two of whom survive with his wife, Mrs. O. C. Bothwell of Detroit, Mich., and Harry Smeltzer of Toledo, six grandchildren, and four great grand children also survive. Arrangements for the funeral services have not yet been made.
[Frank Smeltzer was the son of Adam and Margaret {Smith} Smeltzer].

The Sidney Daily News
Thursday, May 2, 1929
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Jane

MRS. JANE SMELTZER
Aged Lady Passed Away After Short Illness
     Mrs. Jane Smeltzer passed away at her home on lower Second Avenue at an early hour Saturday morning, Dec. 23, 1916, following about two weeks illness with pneumonia. She was in her seventy-eighth year of her age and owing to her advanced years all means of restoring her to health were vain.
     She was the daughter of George and Mary Bird and was born in Noble county. She was united in marriage to Joseph Smeltzer of Gallia county and moved to Patriot and has been a resident of this county since, living in this city for the past twelve years. To them eleven children were born; Jacob and William deceased and the following surviving: Mrs. John Rader of Northup, Mrs. Anna Shelton of Gallia, Ross of Columbus, Charles of Mechanicsburg, J.A. of Chillicothe and Bert at home. She also leaves these sisters and brothers: Mrs. Levi Auld of Carmargo, Ill., Joseph of Idaho, George of Zenemo, Kan., William and James of Carmargo, Ill., and Ziba of Hannibal, Miss. Sixteen grandchildren also survive her. Her husband preceded her a number of years ago.
     She became a member of the Methodist Church when quite young and has always been a kind Christian lady. She was a loving wife and mother and won friends in every home she visited. The funeral cortege will leave the late home at 12 o'clock Sunday noon for Centenary where the services will be conducted from the church by Rev. E. A. Morrell with interment there by Undertaker Myers.

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday December 29, 1916, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, John

Death of Mr. Smeltzer
     Mr. John Smeltzer, Justice of the Peace, living in Green township, about nine miles from town in the Hulbert settlement, died this morning soon after midnight September 23, 1907. Mr. Smeltzer had been in failing health from heart trouble for a year or more. For the last six weeks he has not been able to lie down and his entire body was in a dropsical condition.
     He left a wife, two sons Edward and Wilson, and one daughter, Mrs. Frank Carter of Columbus. He is survived by one sister, Mrs. John Swigert and four brothers Lewis, D. M., Peter and Henry, the last living in Iowa. He was 77 years old and a very fine man highly respected. The funeral services will be conducted by Rev. John W. McCormick at Centenary Wednesday at 10 a.m., Hayward & Son, undertakers. (John's wife was Louisa Kerns.)

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday, 27 September 1907
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, John Jacob

CUTS WRIST AND THROAT
Gallipolis Blacksmith Ends His Earthly Career
     Mr. John Jacob Smeltzer, 51 years old, committed suicide and ended his earthly career at probably a little after 7 o'clock, this morning, (sic) by slashing his wrist and next his throat and bleeding to death in a few moments. Mr. Henry Cromwell called at the blacksmith shop of Cavin & Smeltzer at about 7:30 o'clock and not finding anyone in, noticed a door opening into an adjoining room or shed where tools and such things were kept and entered it to find Mr. Smeltzer lying in a pool of blood on his face and an axe close by him, and he thought a murder had been committed, and hurried to the street and told Bert Stevers and Wilbur Bane nearby and among them they notified the Coroner who responded promptly, and Cromwell told him all that he had seen as we have told it.
     Ada Brown and Mrs. Geo. Barton were on the street at 7 o'clock they told the Coroner and saw Mr. Smeltzer going from his shop toward his home, and saw him returning all within about ten minutes. Coroner Mack says when he got there he found Smeltzer lying as stated by Cromwell and in moving him found a razor, afterward identified as belonging to Smeltzer lying rather under his body near his right hand. It was the instrument with which the deed was undoubtedly done, while sitting on a tool chest of Ross Campbell's near by, and then falling on his face where found. Coroner Mack thought he must have been dead twenty minutes to half an hour when found. The gash cut was on the left side of the throat, making a wound four inches long, severing the internal and external jugular veins, and also severing the radial artery of his wrist.
     Undertaker Wetherholt was called to take charge of the body and it was taken to his undertaking rooms and prepared for burial and this afternoon taken to Mr. Smeltzer's home at 217 3d avenue, where he lived with his mother and brother Bert. The funeral will probably be Monday, but the time has not yet been set. None of the home folks can give any reason why he should have committed the act, but folks out in town said they had noticed he was dumpy or despondent all week. He had suffered much from rheumatism, drank sometimes to relieve himself of pain, but all say was not under the influence of liquor at all this morning. He arose about half past five and ate a light breakfast after the rest and went supposedly to the shop. He returned in a little while and went upstairs and got his razor and returned to his place of business and committed the act without leaving a word or note behind to tell the reason why.
     He was the bachelor son of Joseph and Jane Smeltzer. His father died 16 years ago. He is survived by his mother with whom he has lived since the death of his father, and brothers Charles of Mechanicsburg, Ross of Columbus, Adam of Chillicothe, Bert of this city, and sisters Mrs. John Rader of Northup and Mrs. Thomas Shelton of Gallia Furnace.
     He carried on blacksmithing on Raccoon for many years, came to town about 7 years ago and started a shop back of the Gill produce house. He then went in partnership with Geo. Mehl near the Resener Mills, then sold out to Mehl and went in partnership with William Cavin about two years ago. He is said to have been a fine mechanic and a man of irreproachable honesty and integrity of character and a host of warm friends every one of whom will regret his sad ending and sympathize with his family relatives.

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday, April 26, 1912, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Joseph

SMELTZER
Mr. Joseph Smeltzer, whose serious illness has been noted, died at 12 o'clock Wednesday, August 26, 1896, at his home in Green township, of inflammation of the bowels, and aged about 62 years. There will be short religious services at his home between 9 and 10 o'clock Friday morning, when the funeral cortege will go over to Centenary, where Rev. J. W. Dillon and Undertaker Wetherholt will officiate. He was born and reared in Green township and was a brother of John, Lewis, Peter and D. M. Smeltzer of this county, and Henry of Kansas; also of the late Mrs. Will Scott, of Lafayette, Ind., Mrs. Dan M. Wigner, Mrs. J. W. Womeldorff and Mrs. John Swigert. He was a miller on Raccoon Creek, a widely known and a good straightforward citizen highly esteemed by all who knew him. He was a soldier in the hundred days service and received a pension for disabilities received as such. He leaves an estimable family consisting of widow and son Charley of New London, O., and sons Jacob, Bert and Ross, of this county; also (their) sisters, Mrs. Lizzie Rader and Mrs. Annie Shelton, of Cadmus.

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday August 28 1896, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Lewis

Lewis Smeltzer Dead
An Aged and Well Known Stone Mason Passes
     Lewis Smeltzer, one of our aged residents passed away at 7:30 o'clock Wednesday morning, March 22, 1916, after a short illness with pneumonia at the home of his daughter, Mrs. William H. Belcher, on lower First avenue. He had been in failing health for several weeks but was not alarmingly ill, before Saturday morning and gradually grew weaker until the end.
     He was born April 24, 1833 in Green township where he resided until his wife died about 28 years ago. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Smeltzer and was a man of the best qualities a friend to all, kind and generous to his family, industrious and was well known throughout Gallia county, doing considerable work as a stonemason, his occupation before he became too old to follow it.
     In 1852 (sic) he was united in marriage to Miss Maria Ripley to which union six children were born: Mrs. W. H. Belcher, Miss Mary Smeltzer and Mrs. A. J. Pauley, deceased, James H., at the O.H.E., Amos, of Pittsburgh and Peter of this city.
     He has made his home with Chief of Police and Mrs. Belcher since Mrs. Pauley's death two years ago. One sister Mrs. John Swigert here and one brother Henry of Deighton, Kansas, survive him.
The funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday at his late home by Rev. J. O. Newton, interment to follow at Mound Hill under direction of Hayward.

The Gallipolis Tribune,
24 March 1916, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Mary E.

DEATH
Of a Good and Prominent Lady in Green Township
     Mrs. Mary E. Smeltzer, wife of Mr. D.M. Smeltzer, whose serious illness for two weeks has occasioned so much anxiety and regret among a wide circle of friends, departed this life at her late home in Green township, this county, at 12 o'clock Monday night, August 11, 1902. The funeral services will be conducted Wednesday at 2 o'clock by Rev. Charles W. Brady of Syracuse, at Centenary, the interment following at Mound Hill cemetery by Undertaker Wetherholt.
     Mrs. Smeltzer was the daughter of Isaac and Alice Brainard, and was born in Green township, this county, October 18, 1839, making her age 62 years, 9 months and 23 days. She was united in marriage with Mr. Smeltzer December 25, 1863, and became the mother of six children as follows: Mrs. E. A. Henshaw, Mrs. W. O. Harrison, Miss Cora Smeltzer at home, Mr. Frank Smeltzer of this city, Mrs. Jerome Wood of Columbus, and Mrs. Fred James, all of whom survive her. She also left one brother, Mr. Charles Brainard, of Evansville, Ind., and one sister, Mrs. J. D. Howe, of Salt Lake City, Utah.
     She had been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for years and was known everywhere as one of the best women of the county. She lived a blameless and irreproachable life. She was beloved as a maiden and admired as a woman by old and young, but by none more than those of her own household. To her husband she was a model wife, to her children an ever present comforter and adviser, energetic and diligent in the discharge of every duty, as wife and mother, and kindly and pleasant as the morning sun about her home, and the brightness and geniality of her nature radiated far beyond. Her death has brought unspeakable sorrow to the family and more than ordinary grief to an acquaintance by whom she was recognized as a true woman who gave up a well spent life. Blessed be her memory forever.

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday August 15 1902
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Morton

SUICIDES WITH GUN
Aged Crown City Man Kills Self Monday Afternoon
     Morton Smeltzer, aged 72 years, committed suicide at his home at Crown City, Monday afternoon, Oct. 13, 1919. He was out working in the field when he said to his wife, "I believe I'll quit," and preceded her to the house and in a few seconds she heard a revolver shot followed by another before she could reach the room. He had stood in front of a mirror, fired one shot over the heart and another through his head, dying instantly. He had been in poor health for some time which is given as the cause of the deed.
     His wife and the following children survive: Mrs. Richard Bugg of this city, Ed and John of Coal Grove, and James of Ashland. He was a good old man and all sympathize with his family. The funeral will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. from Mt. Zion church in charge of Undertaker Stevers.
[Morton Smeltzer was the son of Peter and Clarinda (Farmer) Smeltzer.]

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday, October 17, 1919, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Pete Charles

Pete Smeltzer Is Dead At 87
     Pete Charles Smeltzer, 87, a familiar figure in Gallipolis, died at his home, 233 Fourth Ave., at 8 p.m. Sunday. He was a retired hotel and restaurant operator and had spent his active life in various establishments in his native city. His retirement from work came 17 years ago.
     He was born in Gallipolis and spent his entire life here. His birthdate was Oct. 3, 1869, when he was born to the late Lewis and Mary Smeltzer. He was married to the former Addie Edwards on Feb. 15, 1892 and she survives. Three children were born to this union, Lawrence, a retired Gallia Academy High school teacher, Chillicothe Rd., Meade of the Farmers hotel and Mrs. Ed (Genevieve) Harrison of Florida. There are five grand and twelve great grandchildren who survive. Two brothers and three sisters preceded him in death.
     Funeral services will be held at the Wetherholt Funeral home at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Rev. L. H. Stebbins will officiate and burial will follow in Mound Hill cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after noon Tuesday and until the funeral hour.

The Gallipolis Tribune
11 February 1957, p. 1
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Peter

SUDDEN DEATH Of Peter Smeltzer
Well Known Gallia Farmer
     Mr. Peter Smeltzer, 71 years old, a prominent farmer of Green township, fell dead from his horse about 5:30 Monday afternoon, May 11, 1908, in the pasture lot near his home, six miles out the Portsmouth road. Mr. Smeltzer was well known in Gallipolis and the news was pretty well known all over Gallipolis in an hour after it happened and was quite a shock, for he had been in town that morning, bringing his son Harry in to his school, a young man 19 years old, and having his buggy repaired. He returned home about the middle of the forenoon and was in his usual health and wanted his wife to return to town with him and attend the circus, but she didn't care to come so he remained at home, but was not engaged in any particular work until he went after the cows, after he had eaten his supper. He had some trouble with the cows, and his wife was just going to his assistance when she and a young man named Slagle saw him fall from his horse. They ran to his side, but he never spoke, only gasped once or twice and was dead. Mr. Will Helrich came along with an express and assisted in getting the body into it, when it was taken to his home. Dr. Claude Parker, the Coroner was called out and viewed the remains and found his neck to have been broken by the fall. The fall was probably due to an attack of heart trouble, as he had had sinking spells before.
     His funeral services will be at Centenary at 2 o'clock, by suntime, Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Charles Pfaltzgraff and Rev. J. W. McCormick, the interment being also in Centenary graveyard conducted by Undertaker Wetherholt.
     Mr. Smeltzer was married twice. His first wife was Miss Sidney Waddell. By her he left four children surviving, Mrs. John Long, George E. Smeltzer, County Commissioner W. N. Smeltzer, and T. E. Smeltzer. By his second wife Miss Echelmyer, he left one son Harry. He is also survived by brothers Lewis and D. M. Smeltzer of this city, and Harry of Dighton, Kansas, and one sister, Mrs. John Swigert living near town.
     Mr. Smeltzer was a very popular well liked man, and while he had reached the alloted span of life, accorded to the human race, and somewhat beyond, his death will be lamented by a host of friends and relatives.

The Gallipolis Tribune
Friday, 15 May 1908, p. 1
Contributred by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Smeltzer, Virgil Sibley

IN MEMORY
     Of Virgil Sibley Smeltzer, infant son of A. E. and Ada Smeltzer, of Northup, O. Virgil passed away Sunday morning July 12, 1903 at ten o’clock, aged ten months and six days. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. J. W. McCormick, in his usual impressive manner, at Centenary Church, July 14, with Hayward in charge. Another home is sorrowful and another little soul has gone to the God who gave it. The Reaper whose name is death is no respector of persons. He must have the flowers as well as the ripened grain.
     The kingdom of heaven is greatly made up of such little ones, who are taken from their earthly homes, when they have gained a strong hold on the affections of parents and friends. We can not understand why death should come in this way but “He” knows best. Although we weep, we have the promise---“As one whom a mother comforteth, so will I comfort you.” Little Virgil was a lovable child who had a smile for every one. Besides father, and mother, he leaves a brother and sister, Jessie and Earl, aged nine and twelve years.
     In the minds of parents, brother and sister will ever exist fond thoughts of the little one whose pure, sweet life will connect them more closely with heaven. A Friend.

Transcribed for undated newspaper clipping, Gallipolis, Ohio
Contributed by Joanne Galvin

Smith, Leander

DIED
     Of fever, at his father's residence in Addison township in this county, on Wednesday, the 26th instant, MR. LEANDER SMITH. In the death of this young man society has lost a member who promised much of future usefulness, and his parents a dutiful and affectionate son. He was a constant friend; in
fact his whole life was an example worthy the imitation of every youn person, and his death, one of the brightest proofs of the blessings of Christianity. He had spent nearly five years of unremitted toil in the
pursuit of knowledge which would fit him for future usefulness. With nearly every obstacle surmounted, the goal in view, and just as he was about to take his place in society with an honorable and useful profession, he is told by his physician, and is also sensible from the nature of his case, that he must die! That all, all must in a few hours be closed in death! He received this information with calmness and resignation; his countenance beamed with joy, and he exclaimed with firmness, "to-morrow I shall be in Paradise." Infidel, is you cannot believe, for the sake of the comfort that religion gives the poor dying mortal, a striking proof of which you have in this case, cease at least your opposition.

                                                                               S.G.W.

Gallipolis Journal
November 03, 1842
Transcribed by Teresa Herrmann

Smith, Oma Letha

     Joint funeral services have been planned for a Bidwell Route 2 man and his wife who were among the victims of the Silver Bridge tragedy, Charles Thomas Smith and Oma Letha Smith both 65.
     Mr. Smith was born at Chapmanvill, W. Va., a son of the late John and Virginia Dingiss Smith. He was employed for 27 years by the C and O Railroad prior to retirement a year ago. He was a member of the First Church of God.
     Mrs. Smith was a native of Ripley and was a daughter of the late John andMinnie Parsons Frey.
     Mr. and Mrs. Smith are survived by three sons: Charles, Thomas, Jr. of Huntington and Herbert P. of Gallipolis and John of Long Beach, Calif., and five daughters: Mrs. Harry Unroe of Virginia Beach, Va., Mrs.David Hopkins of Norfolk, Mrs. John Fritz of Pandro, Calif., Mrs Dennis LaCrosse of Yokuska, Japan and Mrs Betty Roberts of Gallipolis Ferry.
     In addition to his children, Mr. Smith is survived by a brother, John of Letart and three sisters, Mrs Harley Chapman of Hollywood, Fla., Mrs. Tom Dean of Huntington and Mrs. Jane Albert of New York City.
     In additiopn to her children, Mrs. Smith is survived by two brothers, Albert of Akron and Russell of Mount Morris, Mich., and a sister, Mrs Mildred Elkins of Logan, W. Va.
     Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the First Church of God, Jackson Pike, in Gallipolis with the Rev. Ezra Bowen and the Rev. John Wheeler officiating. Burial will be in athe Calvary cemetery. Friends may call at the Waugh-Halley-Wood Funeral Home Thursday 3 - 5 and 7 - 9 p.m.

Athens Messenger
December 19, 1967
Contributed by Joyce Robinson

Athens Messenger
August 01, 1899
Contributed by Joyce Robinson

Sprague, Mary Esther

DIED
     In Addison township, on the 15th instant, MARY ESTHER, daughter of NICHOLAS and LOIS SPRAGUE, aged 9 months and nine days.

Gallipolis Journal
October 26, 1843
Transcribed by Teresa Herrmann

Straight, Lewis

Death of Aged Man
     Lewis Straight, one of the oldest men in the county, passed away in his home near Waterloo the first of the week and was buried there Thursday. He was close to 90 years of age and was a fine old citizen. His widow and the following children survive; Mrs. Joseph Baker of Waterloo, Mrs. Pearle McCarley of Bladen and John Straight of Bethesda

November 3, 1919
Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Ttranscribed by Cheryl A. Enyart

Stuart, John T.

JOHN STUART, GALLIA COUNTY NATIVE PASSES 
Won Prominence Here And In Huntington ---Rites Will Be Held 2:30 Sunday
     John T. Stuart, 82, a native of Lincoln Ridge, this county, and a brother of Mrs. J. Will Clendenin of this city, died at 7:50 last night. He had been ill since November of last year and for several days had been in a coma so that the news of his passing had been expected by his kinfolk and close friends.
     As a deputy sheriff and a participant in politics, Mr. Stuart became a popular and prominent citizen of this county before he moved to Huntington in 1900. There he soon became a man of affairs and for 16 years served as justice of the peace a lucrative post in the populous magisterial districts of West Virginia. He was an ardent active Republican.

Merchant at Lincoln

     At Lincoln Mr. Stuart was a farmer and merchant. On Oct. 5, 1875, he married Margaret Ann Drummond of the same section—a loyal, loving, devoted to the end. Their married life lasted 62 years and 35 days.
     In Huntington he first engaged in the produce business and later in the transfer business with his son, Harry D. Stuart. He was a member of the First Methodist Church of Huntington.
     An ardent follower of baseball, Mr. Stuart attended all Huntington games, usually with Mrs. Stuart, until two years ago when his health failed. He and Mrs. Stuart had made it a custom to be the first “fans” to arrive at baseball games. Their interest in the game was due in some measure to the fact that their grandson and his namesake, John D. Stuart, became an outstanding figure in the history of Huntington baseball. For years Stuart pitched for Huntington teams, then joined the St. Louis Cardinals for a season or two, and still later managed the leading Huntington team.
     Decedent was the first Huntingtonian to build a home on North Boulevard--- a modern brick home, at 526, where he died.
     John Thurman Stuart was born Feb. 5, 1885, the son of Charles and Missouri J. McCall Stuart. The father was a Civil War veteran and served as sheriff of this county.
     Besides his widow, Mr. Stuart is survived by two sons, Clarence W. Stuart and Harry D. Stuart, both of Huntington; two daughters, Mrs. Jessie Stuart Garlach, Huntington, formerly of Gallipolis, and Mrs. Ibbie Carter, Detroit, Mich., seven grandsons, John D. Stuart, Clarence W. Stuart Jr., Charles Stuart, Knowlton Stuart and Paul Garlach, all of Huntington, and Stuart Carter and Robert Carter, both of Detroit.
     Mr. Stuart also is survived by four granddaughters, Mrs. Marguerite Garlach Evans and Mrs. Margie Carter Hannan, both of Huntington; Mrs. Ernestine Garlach Slifkin, Harrisburg, Pa., and Mrs. Margaret Stuart Kelsey, Marble, Mass., eight greatgrandchildren, a brother, Oscar Stuart, Belle, W. Va., and four sisters, Mrs. Rachel Stuart Cagney, Catawba Island, O., Mrs. Anna Stuart Clendenin, Gallipolis, Mrs. M. Stuart Townsend, Schenectady, N. Y., and Mrs. Gertrude Stuart Richard, Royal Oak, Mich.
     Funeral services will be held at the Stuart residence at 2:30 Sunday, in charge of Klingel Carpenter.

Transcribed by Joanne Galvin
Undated newspaper clipping
Publisher and date unknown

Sturgeon, Maxine E

Obituaries Given For Bridge Victims
     Maxine E Sturgeon, 33, of Kanauga, O., whose body was recovered from the bridge wreckage Friday night, will be buried in the Beech Hill Cemetery following funeral services at 2 pm Tuesday in the Mohr-Stevens Funeral Home.
     Born at Leon on June 7, 1934, she was the daughter of Charles R Fielder and the late Elsie Warner Fielder. Others survivors include three sons, David, John and Lewis all of Point Pleasant; three daughters, Delva of Weston, Sonya and Jaretta, both of Pt. Pleasant; two sisters, Mrs. Dolly Sturgeon and Mrs. May Byus, both of Point Pleasant; and a brother, Orville R Fielder of Point Pleasant Route 1.
     Friends may call at the funeral home after 4 pm today.

Point Pleasant Register, Point Pleasant, WV
Monday, December 18, 1967
Page 1
Transcribed by Cheryl A. Enyart

Swain, Eliza

Obituary:
     Mrs. Eliza Swain, age 43, member of Society of Friends, wife of Capt. Samuel Swain, late of Nantucket, Mass., died at Gallipolis, on 24 January 1816. They moved their family here about two years ago.

[Note: This was Samuel's second wife, and their only child, Paul, also died that year. The mother of the children who came to Ohio with their father was Mary Bradford Cook who died on Nantucket in July of 1812. Samuel died in 1823, and his third wife, Theodate Russell, survived him.]

The Scioto Gazette
New Series No. 27, Vol. 1, Whole No. 802
Thursday, 8 February 1816
Submitted by Eve Hughes

Swain, Joseph A.

Death of Joseph A. Swain
     Mr. Joseph A. Swain died at his home at Kanauga Sunday Nov. 2nd, 1924, at the age of 66 years. He leaves his widow and four daughters and two sons, Mrs. Minnie Clark of Athalia, Mrs. Gladys Jones of Dayton, Mrs. Emma Foster of near Charleston, WV, and Mrs. Ella Trosche (sic) of Cleveland, Sidney and Victor Swain at home. Funeral Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Millersport, Lawrence county. Burial in charge of Geo. Wetherholt and sons.

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
3 Nov. 1924, p. 3
Contributed by Eve Hughes

Swain, Leatha Frances

MRS. SWAIN, 74, KANAUGA, DIES FRI. AFTERNOON
     Mrs. Leatha Frances Swain, widow of Joseph Swain, died at 2:30 Friday afternoon at her home in Kanauga. She had been ill a long time and her death was not unexpected. She was 74 years old.
     Mrs. Swain was a Fulks and was born and reared in Guyan tp. Her husband died in 1924. She and some of her children moved to Kanauga a number of years ago and they resided in the big two-story frame dwelling opposite the end of the Silver Bridge. It was once known as the the Bryan property.
     The surviving children are: Mrs. G.F. Clark, Athalia; Mrs. W.H. Foster, Princeton, WVa.; Mrs. John Jones, Dayton; Sidney and Victor at home. There are also two sisters and a brother; Harvey Fulks, Crown City; Mrs. J.P. Lewis, Ironton, and Mrs. Frank Williams, Proctorville. Ferry Dillon of this city is a nephew of Mrs. Swain, she and his mother having been sisters.
     The funeral services will be held at the church in Kanauga at 2 o'clock Sunday with Rev. C.W. Frye of Rodney in charge. Burial at Miller by Tope.

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Saturday, February 22, 1936, p.1
Contributed by Eve Hughes

Swigert, John

     Mr. John Swigert, 70, a lifelong resident of this city, died at his home on the Chillicothe Road near this city Tuesday, May 30, 1922. He had been ill for several months. Besides his wife, one son, Professor Frank Swigert of the Gallipolis schools, survives him. The funeral was Thursday afternoon at his late home by Rev. Robinson, interment in Mound Hill cemetery.
[John Swigert was the husband of Roma Smeltzer, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth {Farmer} Smeltzer.]

The Gallia Times
June 3 1922
Contributed by Maj. J. M. Smeltzer

Swindler, John

John Swindler
     John Swindler, one of the pioneer settlers of this country, after a protracted illness, passed from life on the morning of the 12th inst., aged 88 years.

Gallipolis Journal
March 14, 1894
Contributed by Henny Evans

Swisher, Clara

Aged Lady Dies at Cheshire Home
Clara Swisher is Victim of Heart Disease and Complications
     Miss Clara Swisher succumbed Sunday at about midnight at her home in Cheshire from heart disease and complications, Miss Swisher was born and reared and spent all of her life with the exception of the past few years which she spent in Middleport with her sister, Mrs. Julia Gerber, in Cheshire, passing away in the same residence where she was born. She was about 74 years of age. Miss Swisher had just recently returned to the old home place.
     Surviving are one sister, Mrs. Gerber of South Second Avenue, and two brothers, Rinaldo and Wesley, both of Cheshire. She was the daughter of the late Mr. And Mrs. G. W. Swisher of Cheshire.
     Funeral rites will be conducted Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock from the residence with Rev. Harley Bolton of Rutland officiating. Interment will be made in the Gravel Hill Cemetery at Cheshire."

[Notes: Clara Swisher was the daughter of George Washington Swisher (1831-1908) and
Samantha J. King (1833-1918) both born and died in Gallia County, Ohio.]

Daily Tribune, Pomeroy, Ohio
Monday, July 13, 1936
Teresa Herrmann, Columbus, Ohio

Swisher, Claude

Honored Dead Soldier
     (Mr. Ed Swisher of Cheshire was down Saturday and left with us the following account of the funeral services of his nephew, Sergeant Claude Swisher, son of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Swisher of Washington, Iowa. Mr. Oscar Swisher is a former Cheshire boy who went west 23 years ago, married and settled in Iowa. He had three sons in France, two returning safely home. Mr. Swisher expects to visit the home folks at Cheshire sometime in February.)
     One of the largest funeral services ever held in Washington County was that of Sergeant Claude Swisher, whose body was the first of the Washington Rainbow division soldiers who died overseas to be brought home for burial. Sergeant Swisher, who died two years ago in an army hospital in France as a result of wounds and exposure, was a very popular member of Company K, 168 Infantry, and at least 1,500 people paid honor to his memory Sunday afternoon. The large
church was filled to overflowing and many people filled the church yard during the services. The crowd at the cemetery was fully as large as at the church.
     Brief memorial services were delivered by Rev. M. R. Regan of the Baptist church and Rev. A. R. Oates of the Presbyterian church. Music was furnished by a quartette from the First United Presbyterian choir, composed of Miss Carolyn Hamilton, Mrs. Hugh McCleery, J. G. Maxwell and T. J. McElhinney.
     In his address Mr. Regan spoke feelingly of the helpful and courageous life lived by Sergeant Swisher, both in his home here and in the service in this country and in France. He was one of three brothers, all of who served in the trenches against the Germans. Mr. Regan refered to the experiences of the parents, Mr. and Mrs. O. M. Swisher, who celebrated Armistice day in the
expectation that their three sons would soon return home, only to receive word a few days later that one had been called as the result of the American drive in the St. Mihiel sector. The minister paid tribute to the heroic spirit shown by the parents.
     The life of Sergeant Swisher, he said, should be an inspiration to all who came in touch with him in any way. "By giving his life in defense of his country, he belongs to all of us." Mr. Regan declared. "His death is a personal loss to everyone in the community and an inspiration to us all for nobler living, and a help in waging a continuous and successful warfare against the iniquities
which prevail in the land, the same iniquity which was typified by the Hun."
     Mr. Regan closed with the recitation of a part of Lincoln’s Gettysburg address and an appeal for all to dedicate their lives to the tasks given them to do. Mr. Oates suggested the question that is often asked as to whether death is a thing of chance or accident and he answered by saying that a courageous death is the result of strong faith "God is ruling and working in the world and He is
love ," said the minister "We can not always understand his providence but we can trust him" Mr. Oates said that a man could not give his life in a nobler cause than that for which Sergeant Swisher laid his down.
     The body was escorted to Elm Grove cemetery by a large body of former comrades
in the world war, commanded by Lieut Harold Putnam. At the cemetery "taps" was
sounded by Oral Larkin, and a volley was fired by a squad in charge of Lieut
Everette Burham.

The Gallia Times
January 22, 1921
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Swisher, Dayton H.

A Sad Death----
     Dayton H. Swisher, only son of Perry Swisher, of Cheshire township, and nephew of Rev. W.J. Fulton, died in Denver, Col., Saturday morning, Dec. 29, 1900. He had been sick about four weeks with typhoid fever. His father had been with him near three weeks and will bring his remains home, having left Denver Sunday afternoon, and is expected to reach Cheshire Wednesday on the noon train.
     The funeral will be held at the Baptist church in Cheshire Thursday, Dr. J.M. Davis, of Rio Grande, conducting the services. He was 23 years old and unmarried. He left parents and two sisters, Misses Sallie and Eve, to survive him. He spent two years at Rio Grande College and one year at Valparaiso, Ind. He was a very promising, excellent young man, with a bright future, had he not met with his untimely end, and which has breaved a wide circle of friends.

Gallipolis Weekly Tribune
4 January 1901
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Swisher, Frances

Mrs. Frances Swisher Died Last Evening
     Mrs. Frances Swisher, long in distressing health, died about 6 o’clock last evening at her home in Cheshire.
     She was the grandmother of Mrs. Ned Eachus of this city. Mrs. Swisher, the widow of Frank Swisher, was in her 81st year, having been born on Little Kyger on July 28, 1859. She was the daughter of Jerry and Rosannah McCarty Shuler. There were 10 children in the family, but Mrs. Swisher’s death leaves but one survivor, Mrs. Elizabeth Fulton, widow of Sam Fulton and a resident of Cheshire. She too, is in poor health.
     Frank Swisher and Frances Shuler were married Sept. 30, 1877. Their early-married life was spent back of Cheshire but they moved to Cheshire some years before his death in 1934.
     They are survived by two sons, Curtis, who holds a position at the Mansfield Reformatory, and Albert Swisher, who lives at Sycamore, Ohio. There are two surviving grandchildren besides Mrs. Eachus, her brother, Raymond of Bidwell, and Clair Swisher, who lives with his father at Sycamore.  
     Recently Clair was severely burned. Mrs. Swisher was a kindly, hospitable woman, and was affectionately called "Aunt Fannie" by her numerous friends among the younger folk. She was tenderly cared for during her illness. She was a member of the Baptist church. Funeral arrangements will await the arrival of one or both sons.

Swisher Rites Set for 2 Saturday P.M.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Fannie Swisher will be held at 2 Saturday at the Cheshire Baptist Church, with Rev. S. H. Higginbotham in charge. Burial will be made in Gravel Hill cemetery by Coleman. Mrs. Swisher was a member of the Campaign Baptist Church. Frank Swisher, son of the decedent, arrived here yesterday from Mansfield. The other son, Albert of Sycamore, came later.

The Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Thursday February 22, 1940
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Swisher, John

John Swisher Dies
Funeral Saturday
     John Swisher, 79, passed away late Wednesday evening at his home near Little Kyger. He will be buried in Gravel Hill Cemetery following funeral services at Little Kyger Christian church Saturday, 1 p.m. By Rev. Scott Mossman. Arrangements are in charge of J. L. Coleman, of Bidwell.
     Mr. Swisher is survived by four sons and two daughters: Arthur of New York, Bud of Columbus, Ermin and Duffy, at home, Mrs. Peters, Cheshire and Mrs. Hulda Jenkins of Kyger."

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Thursday, March 03, 1932
Contributed by Teresa Herrmann

Swisher, Leo E.

Leo E. Swisher
CHESHIRE -- Leo E. Swisher, 72, Route 2, Cheshire, died Tuesday at Holzer Medical Center
     Mr. Swisher was born May 3, 1904 at Cheshire, the son of the late M.K. and Millie Reese Swisher. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Lena V. Scott Swisher in 1967 and by a sister.
     Surviving are two sons, Lowell and Robert, both of Cheshire; eight grandchildren and two great granddaughters.
     Mr. Swisher was a member of the Cheshire United Methodist Church and was a school bus driver before his retirement. He was an active member of the Cheshire Township Trustees.
     Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Rawlings-Coats Funeral Home in Middleport with the Rev. Chester Lemley and the Rev. William Beagle officiating. Burial will be in Gravel Hill Cemetery at Cheshire. Friends may call at the funeral home at anytime.

The Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Wednesday, June 23, 1976
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Swisher, Lowell E.

Lowell E. Swisher
     Lowell E. Swisher, 63, Rt. 1, Cheshire, died this morning at Holzer Medical Center following an extended illness.
     Born Jan. 15, 1926 in Cheshire, he was the son of the late Leo and Vale (Scott) Swisher.
     Also preceding him in death was his first wife, Geraldine (Ward) Swisher, whom he married in 1947.
     He is survived by his second wife Bonnie (Howard) Swisher, whom he married Dec. 12, 1964. Also surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Keith (Connie) Drummond, Mrs. Richard (Lena) McFAnn and Mrs. J.D. (Carolyn) Taylor, all of Cheshire; one son Michael L. Swisher od Syracuse; two step children, Yvonne Jacques of Pomeroy and Dwanna Jett of Marietta; one brother, Robert Swisher of Bidwell; six grandchildren and five step grandchildren.
     He was retired from Federal Mogul. He was a World War II U.S. Navy veteran and a mamber of the VFW Post 4464.
     Services will be Saturday, 1 p.m. at he Willis Funeral Home with the Rev. Steve Fuller officiating. Burial will follow at the Gravel Hill Cemetery.
     Friends may call Friday 6 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Ed Swisher, Randall McFann, Vince Hill, Elwood Howard, Jr. Raymond Swartz and Jim Folmer. Honerary pallbearers will be Luther Smith and Garland Ward. Military services will be conducted at graveside by VFW 4464 and American Legion Post 27.

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Thursday, March 23, 1989
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Swisher, Millie E.

Mrs. Swisher, 64,Of Little Kyger Died Tuesday P.M.
Funeral Is Set For 1 P.M. Friday At 1, Kyger Church
     Mrs. Millie E. Swisher, wife of M. K. Swisher, whose home is on Little Kyger died at 3:05 Tuesday afternoon. She had been in poor health a long time and was in her 65th year.
     Mrs. Swisher was a daughter of the late Thomas L. and Sarah Kincade Reese and was born in the Oil Hollow community of Addison Twp. on Feb. 24, 1879. Of the immediate family she is survived by besides her husband, a daughter, Mrs. Faye Van Heyde, Columbus, who lived in
Gallipolis a few years ago, a son, Leo Swisher of Cheshire, and two grandsons, Lowell and Robert Swisher. There are three brothers and one sister: Willard Reese, Cheshire; Elgia and Herbert Reese, Plain City, and Mrs. Earl Moore, Gallipolis.
     Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. E. C. Venz at 1 o’clock Friday at the Little Kyger Church. Interment will be made in Gravel Hill Cemetery by Rawlings-Coates. Friends may view the features at the home up until the funeral time.

The Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Wednesday May 5, 1943
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Swisher, Rinaldo

'Nad' Swisher, Retired Carrier, Died Early Today
Funeral at Home At Carlton At 2 Saturday
     Rinaldo Swisher, better known as Nad, aged 85 years, well-known and highly respected citzen, passed away at his home at Cheshire, (Carlton) early this October 12, following a period of ten days' serious illness. He had been an invalid for the past four years as a result of a paralytic stroke.
     Mr. Swisher was a retired mail carrier and in that role he made many friends during a period of nineteen years of active service. Mr. Swisher was the son of the late George and Samantha Swisher. His loving companion preceeded him in death two years ago.
     He leaves to mourn his loss the following children: Wilber of Corning, O.; Dewey at home; Mrs. Robert Hern of Akron, O.; Mrs. Hilah Roush of Gallipolis, and George Swisher of Columbus, O.; also one brother, W. E. Swisher, a close neighbor, of Cheshire and one sister, Mrs. Julia Gerber of Middleport. There are ten grandchildren besides a host of other relatives and friends.
    Funeral service will be held at the residence at 2 p.m. (fast time) Saturday. Interment at Gravel Hill cemetery by Rawlings-Coates.

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
October 12, 1944
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Swisher, William Curtis

Cheshire Man Ends Own Life
     William Curtis Swisher, 79, one of the prominent figures in Cheshire, took his life Saturday afternoon to end his suffering from a malignancy which had made him bedfast in recent weeks. Saturday afternoon he marshalled enough strength to leave his bed and secure a .22 calibre rifle which he fired into his temple above the left eye. He lived only about eight minutes after the shot was fired, his death taking place at 2:15 p.m. He was seated in a chair in the family home on the main street of the village.
     Swisher was a native of Cheshire twp., where he was born on Oct. 25, 1877, the son of the late Frank and Fannie Shuler Swisher. As a youngster he attended the village schools and for a number of years engaged in farming. At a later time he was employed at the Gallipolis State Institute. He left the GSI to take employment at the Mansfield Reformatory as a guard from which position he retired in 1941. He returned to Cheshire to make his home and served the village as marshall.
     He was twice married, his first wife being the former Minnie Smith, who preceded him in death in 1942. They were the parents of two surviving children, Mrs. Ned (Neva) Eaches of Gallipolis and Raymond of Columbus. In July, 1943, he was married to the former Anna Adams who survives along with two step-children, Clarence Adams of Bidwell and Mrs. Thelma Kohler of Columbus.
Other survivors are a brother, Albert of Sycamore, six grand and nine great grandchildren.
     Swisher was a member of the Cheshire Methodist church, where services will be
held at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Rev. Kenneth Betz will officiate, assisted by Rev. C. J. Lemley. Burial will take place in Gravel Hill cemetery under the direction of Miller’s Home for Funerals. Friends may call at the late home until shortly before the hour of the service. Pallbearers will be Dick Allen, Ed Thompson, James Baker, Melvin Little, Wilbur Ward and Wilbert Underwood.

The Gallipolis Tribune
Monday November 5, 1956
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Thomas, John Richard (Dick)

January 21, 2005
     John Richard (Dick) Thomas, 83, of Gallipolis, died at home, Friday, Jan. 21 following an extended illness.
     He was born in Gallipolis on June 27, 1921, to the late Richard Soloman and Dora Maude Moore Thomas. He married Dorothea Miller on June 16, 1946, and she survives.
     A 1940 graduate of Gallia Academy High School, Dick worked as a surveyor for Buckeye Electric Co. the summer before he became a high school senior. He then worked as a ship fitter at the Marietta Plant, Point Pleasant, W.Va., where boats were built for the U.S. government.
     Later, he worked at Morrison’s and Fisher’s Department Stores in Point Pleasant before returning to Gallipolis to work at the Libby Hotel as a clerk and ticket agent for the Greyhound Bus Station in the late 1940s and early ’50s.
     He then joined the staff of the Gallipolis Daily Tribune as circulation manager and he also wrote sports articles. Next, he became the Gallipolis correspondent for the Athens Messenger and was also in charge of local circulation.
     He then returned to Tribune as a general reporter and where he wrote a weekly column, "In Our Town" and also "50 Years Ago on the River." Again, he returned to the Messenger, the Point Pleasant Office, until Paul Wagner named him the news director of WJEH Radio. Following 17 years of service with the radio, he retired in 1988.
     He accepted a part-time job at the Tribune until 1990, when he permanently retired with 37 years in news reporting and news-related fields.
     Dick was a member of the Gallipolis and Point Pleasant Fire Departments, an avid sports fan, and a Little League baseball coach for 12 years.
     Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Dorothea Miller Thomas; a daughter, Cheryl Ann Enyart of Gallipolis; three sons, John (Pam) Richard Thomas Jr. of Athens, William Dean (Cindy) Thomas of Lancaster, and Nathan Bedford (Terri) Thomas of Pickerington; and eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, James Dale Thomas; a half-sister, Dorothy; and a special son-in-law, James Enyart.
     Dick was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, where a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday with the Rev. Robert Ingram officiating. There will be no calling hours.
     In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 600 Second Ave., Gallipolis, Ohio 45631; Holzer Cancer Center, in care of Tom Gooch, 100 Jackson Pike Gallipolis, Ohio 45631; or Holzer Hospice, 100 Jackson Pike, Gallipolis, Ohio 45631.
     Arrangements are under the direction of the McCoy-Moore Funeral Home Wetherholt Chapel, Gallipolis.
Condolences can be e-mailed to mccoymoore@charter.net or www.timeformemory.com/mm.

John Richard Thomas
-30-

Gallipolis Daily Tribune
Jan 22, 2005
Contributed by daughter, Cheryl Enyart

Thomas, Maude

Gallipolis- Maude Thomas, 95, of Gallipolis, died Wednesday afternoon at Holzer Medical Center.
     Born in Gallia County, she was the daughter of Caleb and Barbara Fee Moore.
     She is survived by a son, Richard Thomas, of Gallipolis who is a former employee of the Athens
Messenger and is now with WJEH radio station in Gallipolis, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
     She is preceded in death by her husband Richard, a grandson, a brother and two sisters.
     Graveside services will be Saturday at 2pm at the Fairview Cemetery with the Rev. Arnold Cromlish officiating .
     There will be no calling hours. Arrangement were with the Waugh Halley Wood Funeral Home

Gallipolis Tribune
Feb 19, 1981
Contributed by granddaughter, Cheryl Enyart

Thomas, Richard Solomon

In Memory
     Richard Thomas, son of Solomon and Mary E. Daniels Thomas , deceased was born at Gallipolis , O , August 19, 1865, departed this life February 11, 1927, at his home at Bidwell, at the age of 61 years, 5 months and 23 days.
     In 1917, he was united in marriage to Miss Maud Moore, to this union was born one son, John Richard, age 5 who with the mother survive him. His suffering was intense and of several months duration. All was done that willing hands could do and as the end was nearing he gave assurance to the home ones that all was well with his soul.
     Funeral services conducted by Rev. R. R. Denney, interment at Fairview Cemetery by Undertaker Coleman.

In the dawn of the night,
His soul took its flight
Away to his heavenly home,
With the angels of light
He will walk in white
About the dear father's throne
Written by his niece
Reva Marie Moore.

Gallipolis Journal
March 1927
Contributed by granddaughter, Cheryl Enyart

Thomas, Solomon

Death of Solomon Thomas
     Mr. Solomon Thomas, of Olive street, whose different stages of illness have been so frequently chronicled in the Tribune in the last two months, passed away peacefully at 12 o'clock Sunday, February 3, 1901, and in 77th year of his age. His funeral services will be conducted at his late residence by the Rev. L.L. Magee of Grace M.E. Church, at 1:30 o'clock Tuesday afternoon, the internment following at Gallipolis cemetery (Pine Street ed note), conducted by Hayward & Son.
     The pall bearers selected for the occasion are Messrs. A.R. Weaver, S.B. Winters, A.M. Mink, David Fulton, John Pepple and James E. Wood.
     Mr. Thomas left a second wife, Mrs Mary E. Daniels - Thomas, and by her , one son Soloman. By a previous marriage he left children as follows Leander and Jacob Thomas, and Mrs S. L. Wood (Luella) of this city , and Mrs. Marion (Elizabeth) Beal of Bidwell.
     Mr. Thomas was born in Meigs county, O, November 9, 1824, and had been a resident of this city for 51 years. He has always been known as an industrious , hard-working citizen, respected for his sterling integrity of character and high sense of honor. He secured a competency sufficient to keep him in his declining years and retired from active puruits several years ago. All who knew Mr. Thomas knew him as a good citizen and will regret his death.

Gallipolis Tribune
February 4, 1901
Contributed by Cheryl Enyart

Thornton, John Henry

GALLIPOLIS
J. H. THORTON, 100, DIES; BELIEVED GALLA'S OLDEST
     GALLIPOLIS -- John Henry Thornton, 100, reported to be the oldest resident of Gallia County, died yesterday at the Johnson rest home at 1124 First Ave. at 5:30 p.m.
     He was born Oct. 8, 1851 in Harrison Township, the son of Henry Warden and Susie DeWitt Thornton and one of 11 children. His father served in the Civil War and lived a long life as did most of the family. Mr. Thornton spent his entire life in this area farming and was educated at a school in Harrison.
     Eighty years ago he married Elizabeth Short and eight daughters were born to them. Seven survive. Mrs. Ollie Yeany, Mrs. Omar (Ota) Barnett, Mrs. Homer (Rena) Sowers, Mrs. Herschel (Lucille) Porter and Mrs. Zanna Benning, all of Springfield; Mrs. Effie Notter of Columbus and Mrs. John White of Gallipolis, the
latter who cared for her father prior to his entrance into the rest home. The other daughter Mrs. Emma Berriage, died in 1923. Mrs. Thornton died Jan. 5, 1925 at the family's home on Claylick Road.
     Also surving are a sister and a brother, who are Firman Thornton of Harrison Township and Mrs. George S. (Hanna) Lewis of Gallipolis. Mr. Thornton retired at the age of 80 and then lived with his daughters.
     Funeral services will be conducted Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Lincoln Ridge United Brethren Church. Friends may call at the Miller Funeral  home until the funeral hour.

Athens Messenger
August 26, 1952
Contributed by Joyce Robinson

Trowbridge, Michael L.

     Michael L. Trowbridge, 52, of Gallipolis, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, May 18, 2006, at his residence.
     He was born June 7, 1953, in Gallipolis, to the late Samuel Westley Trowbridge and Vivienne Eileen Chandler Trowbridge, who survives him. He was a 1971 graduate of Gallia Academy High School. Michael attended Appalachian Bible College at Bradley, W.Va., from 1971 to 1974. He was a 1979 graduate of Piedmont Baptist College at Winston-Salem, N.C., and a 1985 graduate of Tri-State Bible College at South Point.
     He became a Christian in May of 1965 and a member of First Baptist Church later on in that year. He taught Sunday School for a while in the primary and high school departments. He served several summer internships with the Baptist Mid-Mission of Cleveland. He was also a missionary candidate with them for a while. He held several other jobs during his working career.
     He was a member of the Point Pleasant, W.Va.Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, a member of the Society of the War of 1812 in the State of Ohio, a life member of both the Gallia County Historical and the Gallia County Genealogical Society, OGS Inc., being president in 1989 and earning the Jane Roush McCafferty, CG Award of Excellence for his publications efforts.
     While in the genealogical society, Michael was the chairman in charge of abstracting marriage records for publication. Eventually there were three marriage books available covering 1803 through 1925. He also authored a birth record book and the 1890 Census and a Soldiers' Discharge book. He was dedicated to genealogy and was working on Civil War materials, as well as continuing with his own personal research.
     His real love was the Civil War and he was a re-enactor until it became too difficult for him to participate. Michael literally gave thousands of hours to help other genealogists. He will be missed tremendously by all who knew him and by researchers around the country who have benefited by his many fine works.
     Michael was a member of First Families of Gallia County OGS, Est. 1990; of the Civil War Families of Gallia County, OGS, Est. 2004, and a life member of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (Cadot-Blessing Camp Number 126, Department of Ohio) and the Sons of Veteran Reserve of that group.
     He was the last of a family with the Trowbridge name (sixth generation) here in Gallia County. He was preceded in death by his father, Samuel Westley Trowbridge, in September, 1995.
     He is survived by his mother, Vivienne Trowbridge of Gallipolis; aunts and uncles, Betty and Gordon Kemper, Sonny (James F.) and Mary Chandler, and Philip Underwood, all of Gallipolis; several cousins on both sides of the family; and a special friend, David W. North of Gallipolis.
     Services will be 1 p.m. Monday, May 22, 2006, at the Willis Funeral Home, with Pastor Alvis Pollard officiating. Burial will follow in Bethel M.E. Cemetery at Bladen. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Willis Funeral Home.
     Pallbearers will be members of the Cadot-Blessing Camp Number 126, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.
    In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Michael's memory to the Point Pleasant Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution or Cadot-Blessing Camp Number 126 of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, Gallipolis.

Gallipolis Tribune
Sunday, May 21, 2006

Trowbridge, Paul Carlyle

Mr. Trowbridge Claimed at 49 Years Today
Paul Carlyle Trowbridge, 49 died at 4:30 am today in Holzer Hospital.
     Mr. Trowbridge was born in Bladen son of Jacob Trowbridge and Zenia Lewis Trowbridge. He is survived by his mother with whom he made his home at 48 Sycomore St. Also surviving are two brothers, Darrell Trowbridge , Caledonia and Sam Trowbridge ,Gallipolis; two sisters, Mrs Earl (Rosalean) Logan, Gallipolis and Mrs. Virginia Harrison, Columbus.
     Paul Trowbridge was educated in the Gallipolis City Schools and worked in the mailing room of the Tribune for several years. He was also employed by the G. C. Murphy Co.
     He had been hospitalized several times and seriously ill since August.
     Four nieces and nephews survive.
     Services will be held at Miller's Funeral Home. Arrangements are imcomplete. Burial will be at Bladen.

Gallipolis Tribune
Auggust 31, 1967
Submitted by Marian Schoonover

Van Gilder, Ann (Ann Elizabeth Van Gilder)

Miss Van Gilder, Newsman’s Aunt, Dies of Illness
     Miss Ann Van Gilder, of Granville, Ohio, aunt of John V. Webb, managing editor of The Athens Messenger, died Saturday at University Hospital. She had been ill 10 weeks.
     She was associated with the Andrew Lumber Co. in Granville as secretary-treasurer since 1922. The lumber company moved from Columbus to Granville in 1934.
     She was a deaconess in the First Presbyterian Church, Granville. She leaves a sister, Mrs. Leslie H. Webb, of Marietta; two brothers, William G., of Gallipolis and Lester A., of Annapolis, Md.
     Private funeral service will be held at 11 a. m. Monday at Morrow-Crouse funeral home, Granville, with Rev. William S. Quigley officiating. Burial will be in Gravel Hill Cemetery, at Cheshire, Gallia County.

Undated newspaper article – probably Columbus Dispatch
Transcribed by Suzanne Giroux

[Note – Ann died in 1957; she was born in Cheshire – daughter of Clifford Lewis Van Gilder & Cora Addie Good daughter of William Good & Ann Marie Bierce]

VanGilder, William G. (William Good Van Gilder)

Ex-Lock, Dam Official Dies on Thursday
     William G. VanGilder, retired lock and dam official, died at 7:20 p.m. Thursday in Holzer hospital where he had been a patient for several weeks. He was a resident of 123 Garfield Ave., Gallipolis.
     Mr. VanGilder, a scion of a family that was among the pioneer settlers of Cheshire twp., had a long career in government service.
     He served as lockmaster at the Winfield Dam on the Great Kanawha River and came to Gallipolis Dam as lockmaster in 1946. He was later appointed area chief of locks and dams in the Huntington District, U. S. Corps of Engineer office.
     Nine years ago he retired from government service and he and his wife came to Gallipolis to reside. He was employed at Holzer hospital until a year or so ago.
     Mr. VanGilder was born in Cheshire twp., Aug 7, 1890, one of four children in the family of the late Clifford L. and Cora Good VanGilder. A brother and sister who survive are Lester VanGilder of Annapolis, Md., and Mrs. W. H. Webb of Marietta. A sister, Ann, preceded him two years ago.
     His marriage to the former Marie Clark of Cheshire took place Aug. 17, 1913 in the Methodist parsonage with Rev. C. H. Morrison officiating. Mrs. VanGilder survives along with a son and three daughters, Clifford VanGilder of Middletown, Mrs. Robert (Betty) Lohse of Seaman, Mrs. Guy (Mary) Cain of South Charleston, W. Va., and Mrs. L. Blain (Dorothy) Mohr of Gallipolis Ferry. There are 12 grandchildren.
     Services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday at Miller’s Home for Funerals. Rev. Hughey Johnes will officiate, and burial will be in Gravel Hill cemetery at Cheshire. Friends may call at the funeral home Saturday and until the hour of the service.

Undated newspaper article
Transcribed by Suzanne Giroux

[Note – William died 12/20/1962
The last name is Van Gilder with a space as clearly shown on tombstone pictures
William was son of Clifford Lewis Van Gilder & Cora Addie Good daughter of William Good & Ann Marie Bierce]

Van Gilder, William G. (William Good Van Gilder)

Former Dam Boss Dies in Gallipolis
     Gallipolis, Ohio (AP)—William G. Van Gilder, former supervisor of locks and dams for the Huntington, W. Va., district engineers, died Thursday in Holzer Hospital here. He was 72.
     Van Gilder retired from the supervisor post in 1953.
     Before coming to Huntington he was the lockmaster at Winfield, W. Va., and later and Gallipolis.

Undated newspaper article
Transcribed by Suzanne Giroux

[Note – William died 12/20/1962; William was son of Clifford Lewis Van Gilder & Cora Addie Good daughter of William Good & Ann Marie Bierce]

Vaughn, Mrs. Jennie E.

     Jennie E. (Wilson) Vaughn was born March 8, 1850 and died March 6, 1894, being two days less than forty-four years of age. She was the daughter of James and Nancy Wilson, who still live in their home near Harrisburg.
     In early life she became a member of the Freewill Baptist church, joining the Mount Calvary church, which was then under the guidance of the lamented Elder I. Z. Haning. She loved the church and the association of Christians and was always ready and willing to bear the cross and speak a good word for her Savior.
     In the family circle her advice and counsel were always for good, and her children shall call her blessed as long as love and memory have a place in their hearts.
     Her was education was entirely confined to the public school. During the years 1868-69, she attended the Gallia Academy, which was then conducted by Professor Skidmore.
She was married to James W. Vaughn November 10, 1870, and was the mother of four children, one son and three daughters. The husband and all four of the children survive her.
     She was a sufferer for a long-time before her death, but bore her suffering with entire patience. She was upheld by her unshaken faith in the goodness and love of her heavenly Father. She knew that He was with her in the valley and the shadow as He had been with her upon the mountain top and in the sun-light of health and joy. Her sorrowing husband and children, her aged parents, her brothers and sisters are comforted by their assurance that she is at home with God in the land of endless joy and glory. In their hours of sacred memory and Christian faith, each one of them say,

    Once more, Once more
    I shall behold her face and clasp her hand,
    Once more, forevermore.

May 2, 1894
Gallipolis Journal
Transcribed by Henny Evans

Waddell, Alexander

Greenville, Perry twp, Gallia Co., O.
     Departed this life on the 6th inst. After a few days confinement to his bed, Mr. ALEXANDER WADDELL, something over 100 years of age. The deceased was a native of Scotland, who emigrated to this country at an early day, and after conducting himself for some time with dignity and propriety, married Miss Eleanor Roush, the daughter of one of the earliest and most respectable settlers of Pocahontas county, Virginia. They lived together in all the happiness of conjugal affection for the term of 55 years; early in life they both became members of the M E Church, and lived in the unity of the spirit, and in the bonds of Christian affection they pulled together in the gospel yoke. Their roof became the shelter for the weary pilgrim and the gospel minister for many years, and God blessed them with five sons and seven daughters, whom they early instructed in the path of piety and virtue; eight of whom, through mercy, are trying to follow the example of their parents to that rest which remains for the people of God. The old lady died about seven years ago in the triumphs of a living faith. The old gentleman bore up with Christian fortitude under his bereavement, and waited all the days of his appointed time, and lived to see his children, grand children, and great grandchildren to the number of 260. As a husband he was agreeable and affectionate; as a parent, kind and tender; as a friend, charitable and sincere, and as a citizen, unblemished and inestimable, possessing, perhaps, one of the most even and uninterrupted tempers that ever fell to the lot of man. In short, he was esteemed by all who knew him, scarcely ever having an enemy in his life. He manifested to his last hour the character of a man of the deepest piety; patient in his afflictions, he left the world without a murmur or a groan. His remains were conveyed to the house of his son, John Waddell, on Sunday the 7th instant, where his funeral was preached by the Rev. John Clark, to a large and respectable assemblage of our citizens, with his connexions who listened with interest and attention. "Let me die the death of the righteous and let my last end be like his."
     Mr. Waddell was one of the earliest Pioneers to the west. He emigrated to Western Virginia with the first band that crossed the mountains, and was in engaged in several battles with the Indians during the frontier wars.

BUCKEYE & GALLIPOLIS JOURNAL
SEPTEMBER 18, 1834

Transcribed exactly from copy of original newsprint.
Grave site is in the Hulbert Cemetery
Alexander Waddell was a Revolutionary War soldier
Carolyn MH Smith

Waddell, Harry

     WADDELL---HARRY, youngest son of Ephraim E. And Jennie Waddell, died in Kansas City, MO., September 25, 1886, in the 32d year of his age.
     Harry was always recognized as an important factor in the social circle in which he lived and moved. Genteel in personal appearance and modest in demeanor, of a bright and cheerful disposition and imbed with a sense of manly worth and integrity, he won for himself the high respect, and possessed the confidence of all who knew him.
     Having an intelligent mind and prompted by a noble spirit of moral obligation, his purpose was ever manifest to have the conduct of his life within the sphere of duty and of right. He was in a true sense a discreet young man, and thoughtfulness seemed to be a distinguishing characteristic of his life. He sought useful and practical information, and was a lover of a good book at a very early period in life.
     After receiving a fair English education in the common and high schools he started out with zeal and a noble purpose, prompted by industry and energy, to make his way in the world, and secure and independent living, and with this end in view went to Kansas City and engaged as a clerk in one of the
large wholesale est