Brown Brothers

Brown Brothers, manufacturers of Fine Grades Of Plug - Twist - Navy and Fancy Tobaccos, Winston, N. C. 5/2/92. "Our leading Brands, Old Oaken Bucket, Cottage Home, Waverly". Engraved image of the factory on the upper left corner.

Condition is good with soiling and wear. Folds from mailing. Some pencil marks. Corner bends and creases. Reverse is blank. Measures approximately 8 1/4 by 5 3/8".

The names at the top of the document apparently are W. L. Brown (Dr. William Lafayette Brown, M.D.), R. D. Brown (Rufus D. Brown, brother of Dr. William Lafayette Brown, M.D.), and W. T. Brown (William Thomas Brown, son of Dr. William Lafayette Brown, M.D.). The Caswell County connection is that a son of Rufus D. Brown, George T. Brown, married Elsie Thompson. Her sister, Minnie Thompson, married Robert Lynn Williamson, who became a partner of George T. Brown in a business that became the famous Brown & Williamson Tobacco Company. The Williamson family was from Stoney Creek Township, Caswell County, North Carolina.

William Thomas (1719-1794) Family Bible

Thomas Bible Records

The William Thomas Family Bible by Elijah T. Sutherlin, Danville, VA 8/29/63 [Editorial changes made by Rick Frederick 30 December 2010 to make the record easier to understand.]

This Bible apparently was first owned by William Thomas, Sr. of Pittsylvania County, Virginia. (I am omitting the rest of the description of the Bible). Near the end of the Old Testament, appears to have been written around 1860 or earlier:

Archibald Dixon (1802-1876)

Archibald Dixon (1802-1876) was born near Redhouse, Caswell County, North Carolina on April 2, 1802. He was the son of Captain Wynn and Rebecca Hart Dixon. Both Dixon's father and grandfather fought in the Revolutionary War, the former enlisting at the age of sixteen. His grandfather, Colonel Henry Dixon, was commended by "Light Horse Harry" Lee for his service at the Battle of Camden. He was later killed at the Battle of Eutaw Springs. In 1805, Captain Dixon lost all of his property and moved the family to Henderson, Kentucky. Archibald Dixon was educated by his mother and attended the common schools of Henderson. In 1822, he began to study law in the office of James Hillyer. He was admitted to the bar in 1824, and commenced practice in Henderson. He became well-known as a skilled defense attorney and was employed in a number of cases in Kentucky and Indiana.

Education in Caswell County, North Carolina 1810

The Beginnings of Public Education in North Carolina: A Documentary History 1790-1840, Charles L. Coon (1908)

Education in Caswell County, North Carolina (1908)

The progress of society and civilization depends upon the education and virtue of the people; great improvements, therefore, have been made since the first settlement of the county. From 1750 to twenty-five years after, it is computed that not more than one-third of the inhabitants could read, and scarcely half that number could write a legible hand; from 1775 to 1800 what was then called a common English education, viz: "to read, write and cypher as far as the rule of three," was given to a little more than half the inhabitants, but from 1800 up to the present time the progress of civilization and literature has been greater than for perhaps fifty years antecedent to that time. The great revival of religion about that period seems to have contributed much to the discrimination of morality, sound principles and good order in society; but as the naturalists have observed every calm is succeeded by a storm, and accordingly many of the inferior class of society appear now more depraved than ever.

Caswell County Veterans

(click on photograph for larger image)
_______________

Sondra Martin, second from left, was in town on Dec. 4 to cast the hands of several local veterans who will represent Caswell County at the North Carolina Veterans Park, slated to open July 4, 2011. The veterans are, from left, Marvin Rogers, Benny Moore, Hoyte Moore, Bernie Satterfield and Connie Steadman.

George Washington and Milton, North Carolina

What possible connection could President George Washington have to Milton, Caswell County, North Carolina? He did not sleep there, even though residents at one time circulated that fable (that he slept at the Union Tavern). Nor is he known to have ever visited Milton. The only documented visit by George Washington to Caswell County was the night he stayed at the home of Dudley Gatewood during Washington's "Southern Tour" (3 June 1791).

No, the Milton connection is not physical, it is a family one (at least by marriage) and involves the family of famous explorer Meriwether Lewis!
_______________

John Rice Cabin

John Rice (1754-1822)

John Rice moved from Caswell County, North Carolina and purchased 214 acres of land for $214.00 from Andrew Jackson in c. 1796. This cabin was built about that same year. The 1804 tax list revealed John Rice, Sr., John Rice, Jr., Benjamin Dobson, John Donelson, and John Kirkpatrick, were the first settlers in the Gladeville - Suggs Creek area of Wilson County. John Rice descendents lived and worked on parts of this property continuously until the death of his great great great granddaughter, Christene in 2005. This cabin is donated to Fiddlers Grove in Wilson County in memory of Sam Sherrill and Christene Rice in 2005.
_______________

Permalink

James Madison Hodges Family (Caswell County, NC)

Clarence Garnett Graves (1912-1975)

Graves-George Marriage 1962

On 20 April 1962, Clarence Garnett Graves (1912-1975) married as his second wife Alene George (barely visible second person from right). The first wife of Clarence Garnett Graves, Doris Millie Swann Graves, died in 1972. This 1962 wedding ceremony took place at the home of Connie E. Graves and Queen E. Swann Graves. Doris Millie Swann (first wife of Clarence Garnett Graves) was a sister of Queen E. Swann Graves. A daughter of Connie E. Graves and Queen E. Swann Graves, Lauren Graves, is in the photograph (young girl in white dress), and kindly shared this photograph.

Pattillo Deed of Trust 1869

(click on photograph for larger image)
_______________

Jane Poteat Byrd (1936-2010)

Jane Poteat Byrd, age 74, of 216 Westmore Drive, Danville, passed away on Saturday, November 27, 2010 in Danville Regional Medical Center. Born September 18, 1936 in Caswell County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Allie W. Poteat and Virginia Hayden Poteat. She lived most of her life in Danville where she worked for the Danville Pittsylvania Community Services program as a Support Specialist, working with adults with intellectual disabilities for 18 years before retirement. She was a homemaker and cared for a handicap child. Mrs. Byrd enjoyed bowling, was past President of the Druid Hills Women's Club, and was a member of Providence Baptist Church. Mrs. Byrd is survived by her husband: William T. "Bill" Byrd of the residence; one son: Keith Byrd and his wife Joan of Valrico, Florida; one daughter: Joanne Byrd Woods and her husband Mike of Yanceyville, NC; two sisters: Margaret Turner of Jackson, Mississippi, Jeanette Turner of Blanch, NC; four grandchildren: Cassie Baumgardner and her husband Travis of Lithia, Florida; Katie Byrd of Valrico, Florida, Landon Woods and Jamie Woods, both of Yanceyville, NC; one great-grandson: Jacob Baumgardner of Lithia, Florida.

Williamson-Reagan Marriage

Emily Ann Williamson and Michael Stephen Reagan were united in marriage on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. at Bethesda Presbyterian Church of Ruffin, N.C. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Williamson of Reidsville, N.C. She is the granddaughter of Richard King and the late Billie King of Yanceyville, N.C., and Geneva Williamson and the late Lynn Williamson of Reidsville, N.C. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Reagan of Reidsville, N.C. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. William Reagan of Ruffin, N.C. and Kenneth Eckles and the late Ann Eckles of Greensboro, N.C. He is the great-grandson of Mary Lou Harrelson of Danville, Va. The ceremony was officiated by Reverend Mac McDowell and scripture was read by Reverend Joseph McDonald. The bride was escorted by her father and given in marriage by her parents. Music was presented by Pianist Mrs. Connie Kimrey and by Soloist Mrs. Suzanne Blackwell. Mrs. Pat Dail, aunt of the bride, directed the wedding. Flowers were provided by Mrs. Betsy Jones. Miss Sally Williamson, sister of the bride, was the maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Miss Michelle Reagan, sister of the groom, Miss Sarah Burton, Miss Laura Beasley and Miss Stephany Emory, friends of the bride.

Caswell County Students

(click on photograph for larger image)
_______________

Caswell Students: Mystery Photograph

This photograph of "Caswell Students" ran in the "Looking Back" section of The Caswell Messenger (Yanceyville, North Carolina) 27 November 2010. The location apparently is the Bartlett Yancey School in Yanceyville, North Carolina.

Bartlett Yancey House

_______________

The following is from The Caswell Messenger (17 November 2010):

Back in July, during the Best Dish in NC competition, contest judge Amber Nimocks asked if I would be a guest on the WUNC radio show. Of course, I said yes. I jump at any chance to promote Caswell County and the restaurant. It wasn't until the end of last week, when the show's producer told me we needed to do a "pre-interview" that I began to feel a bit uneasy.

Swift Family Bible

Mary Molly DeJarnette Murder (1880)

_______________

Slave Bill of Sale 1843 (Caswell County, North Carolina)

This document is a slave bill of sale for the purchase of seven negro slaves. The text of the document is as follows (and as written).

Simpson School House (1886-1909)

Simpson School House 1886-1909 (Caswell County, North Carolina): Vance E. Swift's "Alma Mater" - This one room log school house was built in 1886 and served as the public school for descendants of Richard Simpson of Fairfax County, Virginia, who settled on the headwaters of Stoney Creek and Country Line Creek, Local school district number one -- Caswell County, North Carolina. Drawing made in 1986 by Vance E. Swift, the author of this booklet, as he recalls to memory the old school house and grounds when he attended public school there during the years 1904-1909. The old school house was still standing in 1929 when Vance Swift returned to Caswell as County Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Allen's Chapel Missionary Baptist Church

The following is from In the Beginning: The Churches of Caswell County, Jean B. Scott, Compiler (undated). Note that some of the dates are confusing, but the text shown below is verbatim. For example, if the church was organized in 1886, why was the first church building erected in 1856? And what is the significance of a "plot" in 1873?
_______________

James Stanley McCullock (1937-2010)

Mr. James Stanley McCullock, age 72, of Yanceyville, died Monday, November 15, 2010 at Alamance Regional Medical Center after several years of failing health. Born in Orange County, he was the son of the late Otho Thomas McCullough and the late Betty Frances Parker McCullough and was married for over 51 years to Mrs. Mary Jo Cheek McCullock, who survives. James was retired from Burlington industries and had over 43 years of service. Mr. McCullock is survived by his wife of the home; two sons, Joel McCullock and his wife, Nina, of Hurdle Mills, NC and Shannon McCullock and his wife, Kim, of Knoxville, TN; a grandson, Ryker McCullock; a sister, Iris McCullock McGee of Graham; and a brother, Bobby McCullock of Graham. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Hazel Cooley; and two brothers, Buddy McCullock and Aubrey McCullock. There will be a private family service at a later date. You may sign the online register book at www.lowefuneralhome.com
_______________

Permalink

William Norman Pension Letter 1866

(click on photograph for larger image)
_______________

Pelham Depot
Caswell Co
Nov 13th 1866

Mr John P. Auld

Sir,

Mr Brandon, Clerk of our County Court informs me of the contents of a letter received from you mentioning that there were two pensioners in this County. I write you this in behalf of William Norman's widow. Mr. Norman died last June and at the time of his death he was taking steps to secure his pension due for the last four years. I desire to know if you have arrangements so as to collect the pension and also to know your charges.

What proof will be necessary to establish his loyalty during the War & c. He was very old and feeble and can satisfactorily establish his loyalty during the entire War. Is his widow entitled to any pension after his death? Please write me at your earliest convenience and give me the necessary information and we will forward the papers with the power of attorney.

I am sir very _____,

E. B. Withers
_______________

Can Gravestones Be Trusted?

(click on photograph for larger image)
_______________

When conducting genealogical research, just who (and what) can be trusted? We know that mistakes can be made on gravestones, both by those providing the information and by the stonemason. Examples of both, while not common, are known to exist in Caswell County cemeteries. Thus, gravestones, while usually helpful, are not considered a primary source.

Travis-Wilson Family

(click on photograph for larger image)
_______________

Left to Right - Standing: Unidentified, Mrs. Marion Travis (standing behind her husband), Virginia Adelaide Travis Wilson (tall in light dress, standing behind her husband), Miss Sue Foster; Seated: Marion Travis (light suit), Robert Peyton Wilson (dark suit).

Photograph courtesy Robin Wilson Nelson.
_______________

Permalink

Lawrence Thornton Manley (1923-2010)

Nov 09, 2010: Elder Lawrence Thornton Manley, 86, went home on Wednesday, November 3, 2010 after a long illness. A funeral service was held on Saturday, November 6, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. at Wilkerson Funeral Home Chapel. Interment followed in Apple Cemetery, Ashland Road in Caswell County. Mr. Manley was born on December 20, 1923 to the late Lawrence Franklin and Laura Lynn Manley. He was a lifelong member of the Primitive Baptist faith and served four churches as their preacher. Thornton served in the United States Army and was employed by Burlington Industries with 41 years of service. Along with his parents he is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Mary Apple Manley; brothers, Russell, Elwood and Webster Manley.

Ida Elizabeth Evans (c.1925-2010)

Nov 09, 2010: Semora - Ida Elizabeth Evans, age 85, of 16456 NC Hwy. 119 North, died Tuesday, November 2, 2010 at her home. Born in Halifax County Virginia, she was the daughter of the late George "Bunn" and Ida Viola Evans. Ms. Evans had been a member of the Semora Homemaker Club for 50 years. She was a member of Semora United Methodist Church and also attended Lebanon Christian Church. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 7, 2010 at the Lebanon Christian Church in Semora. The Rev. Hunter Thompson and the Rev. John Upton officiated. Burial followed in the church cemetery. Friends gathered in the church at the conclusion of the service. Memorials may be made to Lebanon Christian Church c/o Nancy Henderson, 15106 Philpott Rd. Alton, VA 24520. Condolences may be sent online at www.brooksandwhite.com.
_______________

Permalink

Boswell Cemetery (Henderson County, Tennessee)

View Larger Map
_______________

Boswell Cemetery is a well-maintained family cemetery at the site of the old Boswell homplace on the west side of Longsought Road about 1 mile south of Strayleaf Road in Henderson County, Tennessee. In addition to the identified burials, five graves (four adults, one child) are marked with fieldstones and jonquils at other locations suggest six additional unmarked burials. GPS Coordinates: Latitude: 35.74030, Longitude: -88.41780.

Bank of Yanceyville/Northwestern Bank Employees

(click on photograph for larger image)
Left to Right: Phyllis Ann Barker Dailey Barker; Bertha Cornelia Barnwell Cobb; Georgia Ann Pleasant Smith; Nancy Willis Shelton; Unidentified; Doris Mae H. Moore; Thomas Hurley Rudd; Sarah Frances Carter Watlington; Earl Jones Smith; and Samuel Murphey Bason.

Photograph courtesy The Caswell Messenger (Yanceyville, North Carolina).
_______________

Permalink

Donald Keith Blackwell (c.1963-2010)

Nov 03, 2010 (The Caswell Messenger): Reidsville - Donald Keith Blackwell, Sr., 47, died Sunday, October 31, 2010. He was a member of Brown's Chapel Missionary Baptist Church and was employed by Griffin Construction Company. As an avid sportsman, he was a member of the Stoney Creek Baseball Team and enjoyed fishing. His father, James Robert Blackwell and grandson, Michael Thaxton, preceded him in death.

Lorene Bera Brann Lunsord Sykes (1921-2010)

(click on photograph for larger image)

Nov 03, 2010: Semora, Caswell County, North Carolina - Lorene Brann Sykes age 89 of Highway 57 died October 28, 2010 in the Gulf Coast Hospital in Ft. Myers, Florida. She was born in Caswell County to the late John Charlie Brann and his wife, Jennie Duncan Brann. Mrs. Sykes was preceded in death by her husband, Lee V. Sykes, her siblings, Allie Brann, Percy Brann, Jack Brann, Loney Tatum, Lottie Oakes, Onie Idol, Ola Briggs, Odell Denny, and Mabene Briggs. She was a member of the Hobby Club of St. James City, Florida.

Hazel Sykes Goodson (1913-2010)

Nov 03, 2010 (The Caswell Messenger): Providence, North Carolina - Hazel Sykes Goodson, 97, formerly of 7114 Old N.C. Highway 86 N. went to be with her Lord Friday October 29, 2010 at Brian Nursing Center, Yanceyville. She had experience health problems for quite some time. She was born in Caswell County October 27, 1913 to Alfred Thomas Sykes and Lillie Jackson Sykes. Educated in Caswell County Schools, she retired from Dan River Mills after thirty seven years of employment. She was a lifetime member of Providence Baptist Church, where she was a choir member and served as church secretary for many years. Her retirement life was devoted to serving others.

Edmund Richardson (1818-1886)

Richardson, Edmund, merchant, born in Caswell county, North Carolina, 28 June, 1818; died in Jackson, Mississippi, 11 June, 1886. He attended a common school for several terms, became a clerk in a store in Danville, Virginia, and at sixteen years of age settled in Jackson, Mississippi, where he gradually engaged in cotton-planting, shipping, and manufacturing to a large extent. At the close of the civil war he was bankrupt, but he successfully engaged in business again, and became the largest cotton-planter in the world. His fortune was estimated at from $10,000,000 to $12,000,000, and he was the owner of forty cotton-plantations in Louisiana. He was chairman of the board of management of the New Orleans centennial exposition in 1884-85, and gave $25,000 toward paying its expenses.
_______________

Permalink

Musings of a Depression-Era Southern Farm Boy

Book Description: In Musings of a Depression-Era Southern Farm Boy (2010), John Wade Fuquay shares his reflections on his life and offers his views on several issues confronting our nation today. In it, the author describes growing up as a Quaker in rural North Carolina during the Great Depression and World War II, and how he felt coming home after graduate school. The author then offers reflections "on various sundry topics" from his life experience both on the farm and as a university professor. Finally, the author explores universal themes that he finds relevant as both a churchgoer and as a scientist.

Edward D. Winstead (1852-1925)

The house in Milton often referred to as the Winstead House was built by John Wilson and is on the north side of Broad Street. It is a two-story gabled brick structure of around 1830. Edward D. Winstead (1852-1925) and wife Annie M. (1861-1945) owned this home for a number of years and later their son, Colin Neblett Winstead (1885-1956) lived in the home. Edward D. Winstead owned a tobacco factory, roller mill, and cotton gin, all in Milton, North Carolina. The large size of the four-story tobacco factory building gave some indication as to the economic robustness of Milton at the time. Sanborn’s 1893 Fire Insurance Map shows this structure and provides: “No Watchman, Heat Steam, Work Rms 1st and 2nd, Storage 3rd and 4th.” By 1908 the building was vacant. Edward D. Winstead is buried in Cedars Cemetery, Milton, North Carolina.

Death Notice. Source: The Washington Post, 19 January 1925.
_______________

Permalink

Bessie Harrison Barnett Rone

Mrs. Bessie Harrison Barnett Rone was honored on her birthday, October 10, 2010, with a banquet in celebration of 100 years of life. The banquet was held at the Caswell Pines Golf Club, and was hosted by her children and grandchildren. A plaque and certificates of recognition from the state and Yanceyville were presented by Mayor Curtis Davis. Great entertainment of song and dance was provided by a family of six generations, which was enjoyed by an audience of 150 people. The honoree enjoyed the cards, gifts, entertainment and the printed message from President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, but the biggest enjoyment came from having so many family members and friends in attendance.

Source: The Caswell Messenger (Yanceyville, North Carolina), 27 October 2010.
_______________

Permalink

Lena Saunders Page (1916-2010)

Elon – Lena Saunders Page, 94, of 1884 Pagetown Road, died Tuesday, October 19, 2010 at her home. Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Friday, October 22, 2010 at Gilliam Primitive Baptist Church with Elder David Underwood officiating. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. Mrs. Page was born in Caswell County and was the daughter of the late George Lee and Minnie Gwynn Saunders. She was a homemaker and attended the Gilliam Primitive Baptist Church. She was a member of the Cherry Grove Senior Citizens Club. She loved her family and especially enjoyed the grandchildren. Even though arthritis plagued her over the last few years, she never complained. Mrs. Page was the picture of strength and courage. She loved her flowers and people always noticed the beautiful display around her home. Along with her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Loften Page and her brother, Scott Saunders.

Virgie Mariah Adams Smith

Pelham (26 October 2010) - Mrs. Virgie Mariah Adams Smith of 3851 Chandler Mill Road died Sunday, October 24, 2010. As a native and resident of Pelham for the majority of her life, she attended the local public schools and was a retiree of the Unifi Corporation. She was a retired beautician for Pearl's Beauty Salon and was a member of the James Rudd Post No. 199, American Legion Women's Auxiliary. Spiritually, she was a member of Bluestone Missionary Baptist Church and attended the Temple Community Church.

The Sonarman's War

The Sonarman's War: A Memoir of Submarine Chasing and Mine Sweeping in World II, H. G. Jones (2010).

Publisher's description: This memoir is an intimate and sometimes irreverent account of one man’s coming of age during World War II. Born a North Carolina farmboy, Jones served as a U.S. Navy sonarman aboard a wooden submarine chaser operating from Africa and Sicily during the Allied invasions at Anzio and Southern France. He also served as sonarman and yeoman on two fleet mine sweepers in the Okinawa, Formosa and China operations. This memoir is drawn not only from memory, but from the author’s surviving diaries from the conflicts, daily logs of the three ships upon which he served, and the secret reports of military commanders and other official records.

Ralph Talmadge Talley (1939-2010)

Ralph Talmadge Talley, age 71, of S. Sellars Mill Road went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 14, 2010 at Moses Cone Hospital. He was a native of Caswell County and the husband of 52 years to Jearline Webster Talley who survives. Ralph retired after 30 years with Pepsico (Frito Lay) and was the owner of Talley's Carwash in Prospect Hill. Ralph was also a former employee of Coca-Cola. He was a veteran serving in the US Army during the Vietnam War at Fort Gordon. Ralph was a longtime member of Northside Presbyterian Church where he served as a deacon and Chairman of the Deacons over the years. He loved the Lord and served in many areas of the church. He was an avid gardener enjoying working with his hands and watching things grow. Ralph was a loving and devoted Christian husband, father and grandfather who was always faithful to his family and Lord.

Vivian Bunn Graves (1935-2010)

It is with profound sorrow we announce the death of Mrs. Vivian Bunn Graves of 235 Melvin Wrenn Rd. Yanceyville, NC, who died Sunday, October 17, 2010 at her residence. She was a native of Zebulon, NC, the daughter of the late Julius Bunn and Mable Allen Bunn, born September 5, 1935. She was a member of Yanceyville Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a member of the senior choir. She was an employee of the Caswell County School System as a teacher's aid before retirement. She was married to Fred Thomas Graves who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by one son, Fred Duane Graves.

Blackwell Missionary Baptist Church (Caswell County, North Carolina)

The Blackwell Missionary Baptist Church is located on US 158 a few miles southwest of Yanceyville, Caswell County, North Carolina. The address is: 4777 US Highway 158W, Yanceyville, NC.

The following is from The Heritage of Caswell County, North Carolina, Jeannine D. Whitlow, Editor (1985) at 4 ("Blackwell Baptist Church" by Mary G. Paylor, Assistant Secretary):

The Blackwell Baptist Church had its humble beginning in 1888 when a deed for a plot of land 36 ft. long and 26 ft. wide was given by Henry Blackwell. The trustees who witnessed this gift were Henry Madden, Sonny Blackwell, and Lyndsy Kew. It was also noted that additional land was donated at this time by Mrs. Jenny Blackwell Kernoldly and her sister Mary Blackwell Palmer. At first a small log building was built on this property. This building served as the church and school until a frame building was built for the main purpose of worship.

Ruby Garner Rudd (c.1924-2010)

Oct 12, 2010 - 06:52:31 pm CDT: Yanceyville - Ruby Garner Rudd, 86, went home to be with the Lord Friday October 8, 2010 at the Village of Brookwood, Burlington, N.C. following a lengthy illness. She was born to the late Edgar Garner and Lena Brown Garner. She was a native of Davidson County educated in the county schools, devoted homemaker for her husband and children, and for several years was a preschool teacher after her children were educated. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Yanceyville.

Bettie Underwood Page (c.1911-2010)

Oct 12, 2010 - 06:52:31 pm CDT: ELON - Bettie Underwood Page, 99, of 1279 Underwood Rd. peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior with her daughter at her side Friday Oct. 8, 2010 at Alamance Health Care in Burlington. Funeral services were conducted at 2:00 p.m. Monday, Oct. 11, 2010 at Camp Springs United Methodist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.

Jessie Pruitt Lunsford (c.1918-2010)

Oct 12, 2010 - 06:52:31 pm CDT: Reidsville - Jessie Pruitt Lunsford, 92, of 1840 S. Park Dr. died Wednesday, October 6, 2010 at Moses Cone Memorial Hospital. Funeral Services were conducted at 2 PM Sunday, October 10, 2010 at Citty Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ralph Clayton officiating. Burial followed in Fairview Baptist Church Cemetery. A native of Rockingham Co., she was a daughter of the late Walter Allen and Mattie Chandler Pruitt and had lived in Reidsville most of her life. She was retired from Creighton Shirt Makers and was preceded in death by her husband, Willie T. Lunsford, a daughter, Kay Laughlin, five sisters and one brother.

Roberta Katherine Everett Coley (c.1921-2010)

Roberta Katherine Coley, 89, of 2634 U. S. Highway 158 East, in Caswell County, North Carolina, died Thursday October 7, 2010, after a period of declining health. She was born February 13, 1921, in Caswell County to the late George Calm and Lillian Lee Everett. She attended Caswell County Schools, was a member of Beulah Baptist Church for most of her life, and worked as a cloth inspector in textiles. A funeral service was held Sunday at 3 p.m. at Beulah Baptist Church, conducted by Reverend Buddy Hall and assisted by Reverend Clyde Everett. Interment was in the church cemetery.

Edward Lee Oakes (c.1953-2010)

Oct 05, 2010 - 09:09:53 pm CDT: Roxboro - Edward "Ed" Lee Oakes, age 57, of the Brian Center died Monday, October 4, 2010 at the Person Memorial Hospital. He was born in Caswell County and was the son of the late Cecil Aubrey Oakes and Beulah Mae Persinger Oakes. He was preceded in death by one brother, Cecil Lewis Oakes and one sister, Mary Ann Oakes Thaxton. Surviving are five brothers, Richard Oakes and Robert Oakes, both of Roxboro; Harvey Oakes and Bill Oakes, both of Leasburg; Archie Oakes of Burlington; one sister, Frances O. Wrenn of Leasburg.

Clayton Lincoln Miles, Jr. (c.1936-2010)

Oct 05, 2010 - 09:09:51 pm CDT: Burlington - The Miles family is saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Clayton Lincoln Miles Jr., on Tuesday, September 28, 2010 at the age of 74, of 614 Tucker Street, at the Hospice & Palliative Care Center of Alamance-Caswell. A native of Caswell County, he was the husband of Mrs. Delacy Thompson Miles, who survives, and the son of Mr. Clayton Lincoln Miles Sr. and Mrs. Lila Belle Love Miles, both deceased. He was a food processor at Rockingham Poultry and a member of Providence Baptist Church, Yanceyville.

Inez Graves Madden (c.1935-2010)

Oct 05, 2010 - 09:09:49 pm CDT: Burlington - Mrs. Inez Graves Madden, of 737 Sharpe Road, Burlington, passed away on October 3, 2010 at Alamance Regional Medical Center. She was 75. Mrs. Madden was born in Person County and was the daughter of the late Moses Graves and the late Nannie Elizabeth Williams.

Harold Wilson Gray (c.1935-2010)

Oct 05, 2010 - 09:09:48 pm CDT: Leasburg - Harold Wilson Gray, age 75, of 92 CE Murphy Road, Leasburg, NC died Saturday afternoon, October 2, 2010 at Alamance Regional Medical Center. Mr. Gray was a native of Person County, NC, son of the late Herman Wilson and Leona Oakley Gray and husband of the late Connie Lee Briggs Gray. He was a supervisor retired from the NCDOT after 33 years of service and was of the Methodist faith. Mr. Gray helped start and manage the Leasburg semi pro baseball team in the late 1950s, was president of the Leasburg Hunting Club for many years and was awarded Citizen of the Year for 2010 by the Leasburg Ruritan Club.

Viola Weadon Bryant (1929-2010)

Oct 05, 2010 - 09:09:46 pm CDT. Blanch - Viola Weadon Bryant, 81, of 7433 N.C. Highway 62 N., died Monday October 4, 2010 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born in Caswell County February 4, 1929 to the late Eddie Field Weadon and Fannie Hall Weadon. She worked for seventeen years in textiles, attended Caswell County Schools and was a member of Welcome Baptist Church.

Judith Ann Horton Coleman (1946-2010)

Judith Horton Coleman, 64, of 6563 Hwy 158 East, Leasburg, died Friday, September 24, 2010 at Person Memorial Hospital. Born in Person County, Mrs. Coleman was the daughter of the late Ira Douglas and Verna Chandler Horton. Mrs. Coleman retired from G.E. and was a member of Leasburg United Methodist Church. Mrs. Coleman is survived by her Husband, Robert W. Coleman of Leasburg; two Sons, Berkley J. Coleman of Yanceyville and Michael Ray Coleman of Leasburg; two brothers, Douglas Chandler "DC" Horton, of Roxboro and Randy Horton, of Greenville; four grandchildren, Tyler Coleman, Anna Coleman, Zachary Coleman and Ethan Coleman. A memorial service will be held 3PM, Sunday, Leasburg United Methodist Church by the Rev. Steve Hall. A private burial will be held at a later date at the Leasburg Community Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Home Health & Hospice of Person County, 355 A S. Madison Blvd., Roxboro, NC 27573 or Leasburg United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 98, Leasburg, NC, 27291.
_______________

Permalink

Janie Lee Thompson Mitchell (1933-2010)

Ahoskie - Janie Lee Thompson Mitchell, age 77, of Church St., died Tuesday, September 21, 2010, at Vintage Inn of Williamston. Mrs. Mitchell was born on August 14, 1933, in Lumberton, NC, a daughter of the late Edwin Wilson Thompson and Lucile Margaret Gentry Thompson. She was a member of the Red House Presbyterian Church, Semora, NC. Janie was active in the Gallery Theater, the Masters Garden Club, the Railroad Gang and was a Girl Scout Leader for many years.

Mamie Barts Fuqua (1913-2010)

Leasburg – Mamie Barts Fuqua, 96, of 468 Fuqua Road, passed away Saturday September 25, 2010 at her residence. She was born October 13, 1913, in Caswell County to John Anderson Barts and Mary Bell Cobb Barts. She attended Caswell County Schools, and was married to the late John Arch Fuqua. She was a housewife, farmer and gardener. She loved to take trips with her family and friends and loved to cook for everyone. She loved to visit people and listen to music. She was a member of Ridge Bethel Methodist Church. Funeral services are Tuesday 2 pm at Harrelson Funeral Home Chapel conducted by Charles Briggs and assisted by Chaplain Laurell Strom-Jewson. Interment will be at Kerr Chapel Church Cemetery.

John Lance Bradner (1920-2010)

John Lance Bradner (1920-2010)

Greenville, S.C. – Mr. Bradner, a native of Yanceyville, North Carolina, was decorated for meritorious service in WWII in both the European and Pacific Theaters of Operation. A long-time resident of Greensboro, NC and more recently a resident of Greenville, SC, and Atria Merry Wood Senior Living community in Charlotte, he died at Presbyterian Hospital’s Harris Hospice Unit on September 19, 2010 following a brief illness. He was 89. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Anne Evans Bradner of the home; son Charles Barry Bradner and wife Janice Bray Bradner of Charlotte, NC; son Kenneth Lee Bradner and wife, Susan Bruner Bradner of Dunlap, TN; and daughter, Jo Anne Bradner Hennigan and husband James Joseph Hennigan of Clermont-Ferrand, France. He is also survived by six grandchildren, John Joseph Bradner and Matthew Lee Bradner of Atlanta, GA; Elisabeth Anne Bradner of New Orleans, LA; Abigail Lee Bradner of Rock Hill, SC; and Timothy Xavier Hennigan and Marjorie Claire Hennigan of Clermont-Ferrand, France; and a sister, Mabel Bradner Pleasant and her husband, John Pleasant of Yanceyville, NC, and a brother, Dorsey Bradner and his wife Mary of Yanceyville, NC.

Philadelphia Medical Society Eulogy 1802: Dr. Charles Caldwell, M.D.

Norman Dean Robertson (1941-2010)

High Point, North Carolina — Mr. Norman Dean Robertson Sr., 69, a resident of High Point died Thursday September 30, 2010 at his residence. Mr. Robertson was born August 4, 1941 in Guilford Co., a son of Sidney Lee and Bessie Flynn Robertson. He was an electrician and a former employee with Guilford Mills. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Autry Robertson. Surviving are his daughter, Pam R. Poucher and husband Chris of Atlanta; his son, Norman Dean Robertson Jr., of High Point; three sisters, Martha Ann Cruickshank and husband Barry of Oxford, Marie Robertson and husband Daniel of Julian, Beverly Marsh and husband J. B. of Stokesdale and one grandson, Cody Phillip Robertson. Graveside services will be held Monday at 2 p.m. at Guilford Memorial Park Cemetery conducted by Reverend Don Clement.

Mr. Robertson will remain at Hanes-Lineberry Funeral Home Sedgefield Chapel, 6000 High Point Rd., Greensboro, NC 27407 where the family will receive friends on Monday from 1 until 1:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials are requested to be directed to Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC 27405. Online condolences can be made at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com. Published in News Record from October 2 to October 3, 2010.
_______________

Permalink

Autrey Lee Robertson (1940-2010)

(click on photograph for larger image)

Mr. Autrey L. Robertson, 70, of Greensboro, departed from this life on Wednesday, August 4, 2010, at Moses Cone Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, August 8, 2010, at Hanes-Lineberry Vanstory Chapel. Born in Greensboro to the late Sidney and Bessie Robertson, Mr. Robertson was of the Baptist faith. He served in the United States National Guard, was an avid bird watcher, enjoyed NASCAR, Western Movies, and watching the Simpsons. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Michelle Leigh Robertson.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 52 years, Mary Cribb Robertson of the home; children, Dale Lee Robertson of Greensboro, Thomas E. Robertson of Pleasant Garden, and Tammy Rose of Greensboro; sister, Martha Ann Cruickshank her husband, Barry of Oxford, NC; brother, Norman Dean Robertson of High Point; 5 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8pm Saturday evening, at the funeral home and other times at his daughter Tammy's home 2106 Crestridge Rd. in Greensboro. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation 5819 Park Rd. Suite C, Charlotte, NC 28209 1-877-858-3808. Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com.
_______________

Permalink

Sidney Wilson's Electric Guitar

William Sidney (Sid) Wilson is credited with inventing the first modern electric guitar. Following is the text of an article that appeared in Our State (Down Home In North Carolina) magazine (January 2009):

Tar Heel Treasures
Almost Famous
By L. A. Jackson

The history books may not reflect it, but a North Carolina State University alumnus is credited with creating the first modern electric guitar.

What do rock 'n' roll, electricity, and North Carolina State University have in common? The cryptic answer is William Sidney Wilson, one of the fathers of the modern electric guitar. Electric stringed instruments have existed since the 1920s, but they were acoustic guitars that relied on microphones or single electromagnetic bars that picked up vibrations collectively from all the strings. Both devices made for poor, uneven sound. In 1940, Wilson, a Yanceyville

Janie Lee Thompson Mitchell (1933-2010)

Sep 28, 2010 - 09:01:59 pm CDT: WILLIAMSTON - Janie Lee Thompson Mitchell, age 77, of Church St., died Tuesday, September 21, 2010, at Vintage Inn of Williamston. Mrs. Mitchell was born on August 14, 1933, in Lumberton, NC, a daughter of the late Edwin Wilson Thompson and Lucile Margaret Gentry Thompson. She was a member of the Red House Presbyterian Church, Semora, NC. Janie was active in the Gallery Theater, the Masters Garden Club, the Railroad Gang and was a Girl Scout Leader for many years. Left to cherish her memory is her daughters, Tracey Range of Richmond, VA, Kelly Callis and husband, Lee of Merry Hill, NC, Caroline Bazemore and husband, Alan of Cofield and Georgia Mitchell and husband, George Schuld of Bayville, NJ; her brothers, Ed Thompson, Jr., and Bill Thompson; and a sister, Margaret Thompson, all of Blanche, NC; seven grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

Mamie Barts Fuqua (1913-2010)

Sep 28, 2010 - 09:01:58 pm CDT: LEASBURG - Mamie Barts Fuqua, 96, of 468 Fuqua Road, passed away Saturday September 25, 2010 at her residence. She was born October 13, 1913, in Caswell County to John Anderson Barts and Mary Bell Cobb Barts. She attended Caswell County Schools, and was married to the late John Arch Fuqua. She was a housewife, farmer and gardener. She loved to take trips with her family and friends and loved to cook for everyone. She loved to visit people and listen to music. She was a member of Ridge Bethel Methodist Church. Funeral services are Tuesday 2 pm at Harrelson Funeral Home Chapel conducted by Charles Briggs and assisted by Chaplain Laurell Strom-Jewson. Interment will be at Kerr Chapel Church Cemetery.

John Lance Bradner (c.1921-2010)

Sep 28, 2010 - 09:01:55 pm CDT (GREENVILLE, S.C.) - Mr. Bradner, a native of Yanceyville, North Carolina, was decorated for meritorious service in WWII in both the European and Pacific Theaters of Operation. A long-time resident of Greensboro, NC and more recently a resident of Greenville, SC, and Atria MerryWood Senior Living community in Charlotte, he died at Presbyterian Hospital's Harris Hospice Unit on September 19, 2010 following a brief illness. He was 89. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Anne Evans Bradner of the home; son Charles Barry Bradner and wife Janice Bray Bradner of Charlotte, NC; son Kenneth Lee Bradner and wife, Susan Bruner Bradner of Dunlap, TN; and daughter, Jo Anne Bradner Hennigan and husband James Joseph Hennigan of Clermont-Ferrand, France. He is also survived by six grandchildren, John Joseph Bradner and Matthew Lee Bradner of Atlanta, GA; Elisabeth Anne Bradner of New Orleans, LA; Abigail Lee Bradner of Rock Hill, SC; and Timothy Xavier Hennigan and Marjorie Claire Hennigan of Clermont-Ferrand, France; and a sister, Mabel Bradner Pleasant and her husband, John Pleasant of Yanceyville, NC, and a brother, Dorsey Bradner and his wife Mary of Yanceyville, NC.

Judith Horton Coleman (c.1946-2010)

Judith Horton Coleman, 64, of 6563 Hwy 158 East, Leasburg, died Friday, September 24, 2010 at Person Memorial Hospital. Born in Person County, Mrs. Coleman was the daughter of the late Ira Douglas and Verna Chandler Horton. Mrs. Coleman retired from G.E. and was a member of Leasburg United Methodist Church. Mrs. Coleman is survived by her Husband, Robert W. Coleman of Leasburg; two Sons, Berkley J. Coleman of Yanceyville and Michael Ray Coleman of Leasburg; two brothers, Douglas Chandler "DC" Horton, of Roxboro and Randy Horton, of Greenville; four grandchildren, Tyler Coleman, Anna Coleman, Zachary Coleman and Ethan Coleman.

Raymond Slade (c.1921-2010)

Milton, North Carolina — Mr. Raymond Slade, 89, died Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010 at the VA Medical Center in Durham. The funeral will be Sunday, Sept. 26, at 2 p.m. at Chestnut Grove Baptist Church. The Rev. Larry Wilson will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. A viewing will be held today, Saturday, Sept. 25, from 12 to 7 p.m. at the Plenty Funeral Home Chapel. Born in Caswell County, Mr. Slade is survived by his wife, Precella Daley Slade; four children, Gladys Price, Brenda Chase and husband Hank, Shirley McCain and husband Robert and Raymond Melvin Slade and wife Edith; two step-grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren and a brother, Virgil Ingram. Mr. Slade was a member of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church where he served on the deacon board. He attended Caswell County public schools.

Source: The Courier-Times (Roxboro, North Carolina) Saturday, September 25, 2010 5:15 AM CDT.
_______________

Permalink

Ralph Leon Payne (1920-2010)

Ralph Leon Payne (1920-2010)



(for larger image, click on photograph, then click "Actions/View all Sizes")
_______________

Yanceyville (News and Record, Greensboro, NC, 18 September 2010) - Ralph Leon Payne, 90, of 140 Old N.C. Highway 86 N. passed away at the Rockingham Hospice House Wednesday Sept. 15, 2010 in Wentworth, N.C. following months of declining health. Mr. Payne was born in Rockingham County on April 3, 1920 to the late Lynn Broughton Payne and Mary Mitchell Payne. He was educated in Rockingham County Schools and attended Danville Community College in Danville. On December 6, 1941 he married Elaine Duncan Payne in Conway S.C. From this marriage they had two daughters, the late Nancy Payne Tatum and Carolyn L. Payne of Yanceyville.