page 196
Harris FORSYTHE (deceased), late president of the Lawrence County Bank, was born in Monroe County, Tenn., March 3, 1837, and is the son of Baty and Isabel (STANSEL) FORSYTHE, also natives of Tennessee. Harris Forsythe grew to early manhood in that State, and at the age of seventeen, in company with his parents, brothers and sisters, came to Missouri and located in Lawrence County. He worked on the farm until the breaking out of the late Civil War, when his business was interrupted, and he gave his time and attention to the cause of the Confederacy. He served for some time on the borders of Texas, and after the war he spent some time in that great State engaged in stock raising and stock dealing. He became, eminently successful in his operations, and grew very wealthy. For several years prior to his death, he held the presidency of the Lawrence County Bank. He was one of Nature's noblemen, and in his successful financial career he never forgot the poor, but gave with a willing and liberal hand. Shortly
after the war he married Miss Nancy C. DUNCAN, daughter of William and
Eliza (POTTS) DUNCAN, natives of Tennessee, and later worthy citizens of Jasper County, Mo. Mrs. Forsythe was a lady of amiability and intelligence, and was a very worthy companion and helpmate to Mr. Forsythe. She blessed their union with a family of four children, two sons and two daughters: Samuel, a young man of exceptionally bright mind; Cora B., Eura E., both accomplished young ladies, and Frank Harris. Mr. Forsyth died April 1, 1887, and was buried with imposing ceremonies by the Masonic brethren. He was followed to the grave by a large concourse of sorrowing friends. In the death of Mr. Forsythe his family lost a kind and loving husband and father, the lodge an honored and worthy brother, and the country a noble and useful citizen.
Return to Lawrence County Biographies