Burnet Bulletin, 5 Dec 1907
The subject of this sketch died at the home of his son, H.M. Ramsower, in Burnet, Texas, November 27th 1970, after an extended sickness, principally due to his advanced age, he having passed the 85th mile post.
The body was interred in the Odd Fellows' cemetery, the funeral being conducted by the Masonic order, of which deceased was an honored member.
Edward Ramsower was born in the State of Indiana on the 18th day of August 1822, and there grew to manhood. He came to Texas in 1840, but returned to Missouri, and then moved to Arkansas, where in 1852 he was united in marriage to Miss Polly Anthony, with whom he lived happily for thirty-five years and reared a family of twelve children, eight of whom are living, as follows: George and Harvy, who reside in this community; Marion at San Marcus; Mrs. Small, at Dallas; Mrs. Anthony, at Cross Cut; Mrs. Stevebaugh; Mrs. Davenport, Willow City; Mrs. Rogers, Cedar Mills.
Mr. Ramsower joined the Masonic order in Grayson County, Texas in the year 18609.
He was a believer in the Christian religion and during his residence of a number of years in Burnet made many friends.
The Bulletin joins these in extending condolence to the bereaved relatives.
Burnet Bulletin, 22 Dec 1904
Young Lady Commits Suicide at Bertram. Drank 3 ounces of Carbolic Acid and Died in Few Minutes.
Miss Minnie Rawlings, the pretty 19-year old daughter of Rev. and Mrs. J. M. Rawlings, who live two miles east of Bertram, committed suicide in Bertram last Friday afternoon by drinking three ounces of carbolic acid.
In a case of this kind it is always a difficult matter to get at the facts, and some times facts are best not told, but in this case the causes for the suicide were so trivial that the truth is best revealed, when the public will certainly conclude that for the time being at least the young lady was irresponsible.
Miss Rawlings had been going to parties against the will of her parents, and her father being a minister, this objection was very natural. On the day of her tragic death, he remonstrated with her on the course she was pursuing, but the daughter did not receive the advice in the manner intentioned and locked herself in her room. The members of the family went about their usual duties, attaching little importance to the young lady, thinking, no doubt, she would soon regain her accustomed composure. While they were thus engaged, the unfortunate young lady had climbed through a window, in order to keep her mission secret, and gone to Bertram.
[Émore details on the events of the suicideÉ]
Marble Falls Messenger, March 5, 1987, page 11A. Contributed by Susan <TWOFORBUGSY @ cs.com> and Dot Creasey, Sept 2002
Ellis H. Ray, 80, of Bertram died Feb. 24, 1987. Born June 15, 1906, in Bertram, the son of Henry Ray and the former Georgia Barton, he was a retired farmer and rancher. For many years he was a bus driver for the Bertram and Burnet school system and was a member of First Baptist Church of Bertram.
Services were Thursday in Clements-Wilcox Chapel with Rev. Joe Orr Officiating. Burial followed in the Bear Creek Cemetery under the direction of Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home.
Survivors include his wife, Jessie Fay of Bertram; one son, Douglas Ray of Bertram; two daughters, Norene Smith and Joyce Harper, both of Bertram; one sister Edna McCoy of Burnet; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Pallbearers were, Brack DeLeon, Jim Burkett, D.L. Blair, Jesse James, Joel Haver and Ellis Taylor. Honorary pallbearers were Bill Bryson and Buck Asher.
Name of Newspaper and date unknown. Contributed by Susan <TWOFORBUGSY @ cs.com>, Sept 2002
Mrs. Georgia May Ray, 90, of Burnet, died Sunday, December 9, 1973, in a Burnet nursing home. Mrs. Ray was born in Burnet County November 30, 1883, the daughter of the late Dave Barton and the former Clara Davis. She was a lifelong resident of Burnet County, having made her home in Bertram for many years.
Mrs. Ray was a member of the Church of Christ, and was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Ray, who expired in 1938.
Funeral services for Mrs. Ray were held Tuesday, December 11, at the Clements Chapel with Darrell Debo Officiating. Interment followed at the Shady Grove Cemetery under the direction of Clements Funeral Home.
Survivors include two sons, Ellis Ray and Lawrence (Jap) Ray, both of Bertram; one daughter, Mrs. Edna McCoy of Burnet; ten grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Grandsons of Mrs. Ray were named as pallbearers.
"The Galveston News" pg. 9, May 25, 1945 - from Susan <[email protected]>, Sept 2002
Rites Will Be Held Today for Mrs. Ray
Texas City, Tex., May 24. Mrs. Lois Irene Ray, 28, wife of R. M. Ray of 1229 2d avenue north, died at her home Thursday morning at 3:32 o'clock.
The Ray family moved to Texas City three years ago and Mr. Ray has been employed at the Pan American Refinery.
Mrs. Ray is survived by two sons, Marvin Carl, age 5, and James Ernest, age 2, and one daughter, Emma Katherine, 9 months, a mother Mrs. H. H. Crooks of Bertram.
The body was taken overland to Bertram and services will be held at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon. Burial will be in the family cemetery of that city. H. B. Emken funeral home is in charge.
Burnet Bulletin, 18 May 1917 TO THE MEMORY OF S.N. REED "We thank thee oh Lord for the good and noble influences of this man's life." These words used by Rev. Griffith in a short prayer over the remains of S.N. Reed. Mr. Reed was born in Virginia in the year 1817, came to Texas in 1872 and settled in Burnet County near the source of Oatmeal Creek. Since that time he has resided in that and adjoining communities. The writer of this simple, plain sketch has known Mr. Reed since 1879 and that too intimately and an honestly and truthfully say that he was a good, and true man. Well might his pastor Rev. Griffiths have written the words quoted at the head of this sketch. During a period of 35 years to find a man constantly on the Side of righteousness, temperance, morality and the uplift of men and measures find a man tried and true. Such a man was S. N. Reed. His influence and the influences as such men as he, for good will last as long as the sun may shine. A noble true man is an honor to God, an honor to his country, his neighbor, his family and himself. Living as nearest neighbor for 10 years to this man, gives the writer the right to judge him by his fruits. We can honestly say that the world is made better by such men having lived in it. When conditions and environments would seem to sweep over and crush the soul of this grand man...age and faith to rise superior to storms, trials and trouble, and emerge the same gentle, true Christian, that governed his life through prosperity, joy and happiness, never and unjust criticism against fate or what not, always the same kind gentle neighbor, but firm in his Christianity, and good citizenship. We have profited many times by his true fatherly advice and suggestions. A daily association for years with such men can't help but influence any man for good. Therefore, anyone who knew Uncle Sam Reed can say amen to the words of his pastor. "We thank thee Oh Lord for the good pure Christian influences that has born out from this man's life." Mr. Reed leaves a wife, one daughter and six sons to mourn his loss. Mr. Reed was converted at a meeting held at or near Oatmeal Springs conducted by Rev. S. C. Lockett in 1878 and joined the C. Presbyterian Church. Just a few days more would have filled out the slotted life of man. "Three score and ten." 70 years he lived, a true life since we have known him.
... J.L. McClish.
Source unknown, contributed by Esther Rancier, erase @ pacbell.net, Jan 2004
LIFE OF MRS. REED BY A FRIEND
Just after 4:00 o'clock a.m. on the morning of March 21, 1923, Mrs. S.N. Reed, aged 79 years departed this life. Mrs. Reed (nee Mary C. Conner) was born April 8th, 1845 in the state of Virginia where she grew to womanhood and was married to Samuel N. Reed August 8, 1866. They came to Texas in 1874, located in this county where they resided the remainder of their lives.
In early life Mrs. Reed became a Christian and until death was a faithful member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and gave strong support to every righteous cause.
For many months Mrs. Reed had been afflicted, perhaps never free of pain but she bore her sufferings with great patience and was always pleasant and loving to her friends and relatives.
The funeral services, conducted by Rev. W. G. Grffiths, assisted by Rev. G. A. Mesler were held in the Mt. Zion Church , where she had worshipped for many years, and in the presence of a large concourse of friends the body was laid to rest in the Mr. Zion Cemetery.
The surviving children are: C.N. Reed, DeQueen, Ark.; G. R. Reed, Burnet, Tx; Z. W.; J. E.; S. M.; R. W. Reed and Mrs. Walter Ross of Bertram.... A Friend
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MRS. S.N. REED DEAD
Bertram, April 3 --- Funeral services were held last week at the Mount Zion Church for Mrs. S. N. Reed, 73, lovingly called Grandma Reed by everyone. The deceased was a pioneer citizen of this county, having lived the greater part of her life here in the Mount Zion community and was amember of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church there. Rev. W. G. Griffths held the funeral services assisted by her pastor, Rev. Mealer, who spoke consoiling words telling of her long and blessed life, though the last few years she had been a suffered of complications of diseases. The floral tribute was very beautiful and a great concourse of sorrowing friends were gathered to pay their last respects to this noble woman. Surviving are Z. W. Reed, San Reed, Bob Reed, Ed Reed and Mrs. Walter Ross all of near Bertram and Gil Reed of Burnet and Charlie Reed of Arkansas. All were present at her funeral ecxcept the son in Arkansas.
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Mrs. S. N. Reed
Whereas God has called unto His Own on March 31, 1923. Mrs. S. N. Reed, a much beloved member of our Bertram Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Sunday School and Missionary Society, be it resolved:
First, That although we feel the great loss sustained by her death, we bow in humble submission to the Will of Him who "doeth all things well."
Second, That the deepest sympathy of the Church, Sunday School and Missionary Society be extended to her children and grand children, and that we ever hold in Sacred memory the sweet relationship we had with her as our sister in Christ;
Third, That a copy of these resloutions be placed on each of our records, a copy to be send to the bereaved children and to both the local and the church paper.
Mrs. S. Barnett, Mrs. L.L. Beal, Mrs. J.U. Smith
submitted by "Shay Hillman" <[email protected]>, May 2002, Source Unknown
Mrs. Walter L. Reed Died Monday, March 30th at Levelland
Mrs. Walter L. Reed passed away at 8:30 Monday night, March 30th (1953) at her home in Levelland, after a long illness. Mrs. Reed, (nee Miss Emma Jewel Cole) was born and reared at Bertram, and was the daughter of Mrs. R. S. Cole. She was a member of the Baptist Church.
Funeral Services were held at 2:00 o'clock Wednesday afternoon at the First Baptist Church in Bertram with the Rev. J.H. Wright of Levelland and the Rev. Bill Merritt officiating. Pall bearers were Lee Farmer, O.W. Marcom, O.R. Watkins, David Williams, Walter Ruble, and W.C. Blankenship. Burial was in the Capital Memorial Cemetery near Austin under the direction of the Edgar Funeral Home.
Survivors include her husband, Walter L. Reed, a son, Walter L. Reed, Jr. of Levelland, her mother, Mrs. R.S. Cole of Bertram; two brothers, W.B. Cole of Bertram and Chester Cole of Houston, and a sister, Mrs. Edwin Gage of Royce City. A more extended obituary will be published next week.
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From another newspaper clipping, source and date unknown (written by N. Oliver Cox, Editor)
Mrs. Walter L. Reed Buried in Capital Memorial Garden
On Monday night, March 30th (1953), our hearts were made heavy with the news announcing the death of Mrs. Walter L. Reed of Levelland. Words cannot express the dark shadow of gloom cast over the entire community, and today we tarry beneath the shades of sorrow and grief to pay the last tribute of respect to our dear friend and loved one.
Mrs. Reed, (nee Miss Emma Jewel Cole) was born January 11th, 1910 at Bertram. She was converted early in life and continued in Christian services until ill health made such services impossible. A graduate of Bertram High School, she attended Mary Hardin Baylor College at Belton and Southwest Texas State Teachers College at San Marcos. After receiving a certificate, she taught school for several years. Mrs. Reed served as an active member of the P.T.A., as well as other community activities. She was married to Walter L. Reed on December 28, 1933 in Georgetown, Texas. She leaves her husband and one son, "Scooter," of Levelland; her mother, Mrs. R.S. Cole of Bertram; one sister, Mrs. Edwin Gage of Royce City, and two brothers, W.B. Cole of Bertram and C.S. Cole of Houston.
The thread of her valuable life has been broken and her lovable character and smiling face has passed from our range of vision, her spirit has winged its flight to the merciful keeping of our Father who gave it. Today, as we sorrow, we must remember that she is wearing a crown of glory that fadeth not away, in that bright mansion above whose builder and maker is God.
Funeral services were conducted by her pastor, Rev. J.H. Wright, assisted by Rev. Bill Merritt, in the First Baptist Church in Bertram, and completed in the Capital Memorial Gardens near Austin under the direction of the Edgar Funeral Home. Pall bearers were Lee Farmer, O.W. Marcom, A.R. Watkins, David Williams, Walter Ruble, and Wayne Bonner.
The profusion of beautiful flowers was evidence of the love held for her and her family. Out of town people who were here to attend the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. C.S. Cole, and Mrs. Homer Lambert of Houston; Mr. and Mrs. Selman Phillips, Mrs. Earl Williams, Mrs. Archie Broome, Mr. and Mrs. Jas. R. Reed, Mr. and Mrs. W.B. Inmann, Mrs. Buck Schooley, Mrs. Nelda Wooten, Mrs. E. D. Wooten, Mrs. Ewell Hunt, Mrs. Geo. Rhemann, Mr. and Mrs. O.B. Barrett, Mrs. Martha Champion, Mrs. Ollie Goodson, Mrs. T.O. Morris, Mrs. Mary Higgins, Mr. and Mrs. Welbern Dunlap, Mrs. George Turney, Mrs. Paul E. Spruiel, Mr. and Mrs. C.E. McMordie, Mrs. Julian Freemen, Mrs. George Garner and Mrs. Jessie Beaver, all of Austin; Mrs. L.A. Dunlap, Mrs. Clifton Dunlap, Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Dunlap, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Dunlap, Miss Venice Dunlap, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Davis, Mr. and Mrs. B.C. Wommack and Rev. and Mrs. Charles Hager, all of Andice; Mr. and Mrs. O.W. Marcom, Rev. and Mrs. J. H. Wright, and O.R. Watkins of Levelland; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Reed of Corpus Christi, Mr. and Mrs. E.O. Williams of Dallas, Mrs. Barto Arnold of San Antonio, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Mitt_(?) of San Marcos, Mr. and Mrs. Hershall Stockeon of San Angelo, Rev. and Mrs. Q.C. Dietering of Waco, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Bonner of Big Spring, Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe Perkins of Lampasas, Mr. and Mrs. Lee Farmer of Lubbock, Mrs. Dwight Campbell of Crowell, Dr. and Mrs. Lowell Campbell of Fort Worth, and perhaps others.
Burnet Bulletin, 8 Dec 1904
Mrs. W. B. Reynolds died at her home in Burnet last week, of dropsy, and was buried at Clear Creek Cemetery the following day, Rev. T. Lee conducting the service. Mrs. Reynolds leaves a husband and several small children, beside many other relatives to mourn her death. The entire community sympathize with them in their irreparable loss.
Burnet Bulletin, 11 March 1948
Friends at this place were made sad when news was spread that Mrs. R. J. Richey had passed away at her home here, March 8, 1948.
Funeral services for this lovable lady were held Tuesday morning, March 9, at 10:30 in the Edgar Funeral Home and burial was in the Odd Fellows Cemetery with one of her grandsons, Rev. McMurry Richey of Houston and Rev. J. P. Manley of the First Methodist church of this place conducting the services. Pallbearers were: Bob Richey, David Richey, Tom B. Richey, Harvey Richey, Richey Holman, John Lee Reynolds, McMurry Reylonds and Gene Richey.
This fine woman who was loved by all who knew her, had been a resident of this city for 58 years. She was born at Iredell, Bosque County, Texas, October 6, 1864.
Mrs. Richey was the wife of the late Professor R. J. Richey, one of the better known educators of the earlier days. Mr. Richey passed on in 1920.
Mrs. Richey was blessed with a fine family of boys and girls who did everything possible to make her declining years as happy as possible. They are: Mrs. Annie Maud Holman of Austin; Mrs. Robertta Reynolds of San Antonio; McMurry Richey of San Antonio; Lee Richey of Austin; Tom Richey of Lampasas; Harvey Richey of Richland, Washington; and Ben Frank Richey of Abilene.
The Bulletin joins other friends of the family in offering condolence during their days of sorrow.
Contributed by Janet Crain, 19 Jul 2001; source not given
A LEADING EDUCATOR OF TEXAS DIED IN AUSTIN TUESDAY
Robert James Richey, Graduate of Washington and Lee, Gone to His Reward
The State Department of Education was closed today in respect to Professor Robert James Richey, secretary of the State board of examiners, whose death occurred this morning after an illness of several months' duration.
Professor Richey came to Austin about two years ago from Burnet as an appointee of Miss Annie Webb Blanton, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. He was considered one of the most prominent educators of the State, and for fifteen years was principal of the Robert E. Lee High School of Burnet. He was born in Tennessee in 1850, and was a graduate from the Washington and Lee University, Virginia, in 1872. He was a linguist of note, speaking five languages with fluency. He was an honor student at Washington and Lee, and had among his treasured possessions, a letter of commendation for his scholarship written by the great Robert E. Lee, himself, president of the university. Professor Richey, was one of the pallbearers at the funeral of General Lee.
The family of Professor Richey consisted of eight children, all of whom survive him, but one daughter, Mrs. Ruth Mynear of Ranger, whose death occurred only a few months ago.
Two of his sons were with the A. E. F., Tom Richey, and Harvey.
The family surviving are: Mrs. Richey, McMurray Richey, who is mayor of Benito, Lee Richey of El Paso, Tom Richey of Lampasas, Harvey, Mrs. Roberta Reynolds, Miss Annie, Maude and Ben Bolt, who is attending the Austin High School. He also had five grandchildren, the eldest 10 years old.
The funeral will be held in Burnet Tuesday. The family, friends and pall- bearers will leave on the 7 o'clock train Tuesday for Burnet, returning the same evening.
Brief services will be held this afternoon at 5 o'clock at Weed's Chapel for the family and close friends.
From the Temple Daily Telegram and Austin American Statesman; contributed by JoAnn Hopper
Beulah Mae Ricketson died June 5, 2001 on her eighty-seventh birthday in Dallas, Texas.
Her funeral will be held at Putnam Funeral Home, Kingsland, Texas at 1:00 p. m., Friday June 8, 2001. Burial will be at Hoover's Valley Cemetery.
Beulah Mae Ricketson was born June 5, 1914 in Burnet County to Myrtle Lucinda Cummings and William Manning Ricketson. Her mother died when she was only two, so she grew up in the care of her father and grandmother Sarah Ann Harwell Ricketson. Beulah was a descendant of several pioneer families in Burnet County: Aaron Ricketson, James Seaborn Harwell, Charles Cummings, and Isaac Hoover. Reflecting her heritage, she was spirited and strong willed.
She attended school in Wolf's Crossing and graduated from Kingsland High School. She was a lively, adventuresome girl who enjoyed sports and outdoor activities. She and her brothers, sisters and cousins were very close, so they shared many happy memories.
November 7, 1936 she married Thaddeus Milton Ricketson in San Antonio, Texas and the two lived between Marble Falls and Kingsland on family land. Their first child, Jo Ann, was born in 1939 and their second daughter, Betty Joyce in 1942. They bought a farm in northern Burnet County in the Dobyville Community, near Lampasas and lived there until after their son, Larry Thaddeus Ricketson was born. Around 1955, Thad and Beulah moved to Burnet and later to Temple, Texas. When failing health became a factor, Thad and Beulah Mae built an apartment adjoining their daughter, Betty, in Dallas where she spent the last years of her life.
Beulah was a full-time homemaker and mother who dedicated herself to her family. Her family and friends appreciated her sense of humor and pleasant personality. She always had time for friends and family, despite the arduous involvement in helping Thad runs the farm. Her homemade breads and her fried chicken and cream gravy were her trademarks. Her lively imagination and her gift of narrative entertained her children with stories.
Beulah Mae was proud of the fact that all three of her children received degrees from the University of Texas. She was a dedicated sports fan, especially of the Longhorns and the Cowboys. She and Thad were involved in interactive viewing long before the term became popular.
She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Myrtle and Manning Ricketson, three brothers: Lilburn, Gilbert (Gib), William Manning (Dub) Ricketson and two sisters Neoma Walker and Ann Ellason.
Beulah is survived by her husband Thad Ricketson, her son Larry Thaddeus Ricketson of Arlington and two daughters Betty Joyce Mayeur of Dallas and Jo Ann Hopper, and her husband Robert, of Salado.
Obit from the Temple Daily Telegram and the American Statesman; contributed by JoAnn Hopper
Thaddeus Milton Ricketson passed away at his home in Dallas, June 22, 2001. Funeral services will be June 25, at 1: p.m. at Putnam's Funeral Chapel in Kingsland, Texas. Burial will be at Hoover's Valley Cemetery beside his wife Beulah Mae who died June 5, 2001.
Thaddeus Milton (Thad) Ricketson was born November 20, 1906, to Abner and Luraney Ricketson near Kingsland, Burnet County, Texas. The youngest of eleven children, he attended school at Wolf's Crossing, and after graduation, he moved to California to join an older brother and sister, Jack and Leona. He lived and worked in Antioch, CA, during part of the depression before returning to Texas. Times were still hard, so he worked for a while on the Buchanan Dam project. November 7, 1936, he married Beulah Mae Ricketson, daughter of William Manning and Myrtle Cummings Ricketson.
As a young man, Thad was known for his musical talent. He and his brother, Cleburn, and several friends formed a dance band, playing for festive occasions throughout the area. Thad, a piano player, was much in demand, and Beulah Mae, his new wife, loved to dance. He continued playing for dances until the pressures of fatherhood kept him home.
Thad and Beulah Mae lived in Burnet County, between Marble Falls and Kingsland, farming and ranching in the old family tradition. In 1944, they bought a place between Lampasas and Burnet. By this time they had two daughters, Jo Ann (1939) and Betty Joyce (1942). During the war, Thad continued his farming/ranching operation and worked at Camp Hood, a growing military base that housed German prisoners of war
During the drought of the early 50's, Thad went to work for Lone Star Gas Company and continued to operate the farm/ranch on the side. In 1951, Thad and Beulah welcomed a son, Larry Thaddeus Ricketson, to their family. In 1955, the Ricketsons moved to Burnet, to be closer to Thad's work, but he was transferred Temple, Texas, in 1958.
Thad retired from Lone Star Gas Company in 1972, and he and Beulah returned to their home in Burnet, where Thad earned quite a reputation as a gardener, especially of tomatoes, until 1992 when declining health and pressure from their children convinced them to move to Dallas with Betty.
Thad Ricketson was the ninth generations of Ricketson men in this country, beginning with William, a Quaker, who came to Rhode Island from England in the mid 1600s. Later the family settled in MA. while Thad's line of the family eventually migrated to GA after the American Revolution. After the Civil War his grandfathers brought their families to Texas, settling in Burnet and Llano Counties.
Thaddeus Milton Ricketson is survived by his son, Larry Thaddeus Ricketson, of Arlington, and two daughters, Betty Joyce Mayeur of Dallas and Jo Ann Hopper and her husband, Robert, of Salado. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and their families.
He is preceded in death by his wife Beulah Mae, mother and father, Abner and Luraney, brothers, John Allen Wilbern, Logan, Ben, Jack and Cleburn Ricketson and sisters Minnie Lesher, Olga Haile, Ophelia Harwell, Leona Hoover, and Myrtle Fluitt.
From The Citizen's Gazette, 8 Aug 2001
Alva Lee Schooley Riley, 86, died Monday, August 6, 2001. Visitation will be held today from 6-8 p.m. at Clements-Wilcox funeral Chapel in Burnet. Funeral services will be held tomorrow, 10 a.m. at the Clements-Wilcox funeral Chapel in Burnet with Rev. Jim Owens officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery, near Burnet, under the direction of Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home of Burnet.
Pallbearers will be grandsons, Frank Creasey Jr., C. D. Riley, Kevin Riley, Kenny Riley, Clay Williams and friend Daryl Hinds. Honorary pallbearers will be Melvin Riley, Bill Crow, Tom Crow and Justin Crow.
A native of Bethel Community in Burnet County, she was born December 12, 1914, the daughter of Ben Lee and Letha McCoy Schooley. She was born in the log house of her great grandparents, Hugh and Harriet Farquhar McCoy. She was descended from several pioneer families who came to Texas as early as 1830. As a child she lived at Barton Spring in Austin where her father farmed the land for Mr. Zilker before it became Zilker Park. She enjoyed sewing and reading history, and was a gentle, Christian person with a remarkable memory. She helped her husband, Homan Riley, in his auto business in Burnet for many years.
Survivors include three daughters, Millie Williams, Dot Creasey and Ruth Warwick, all of Burnet; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Bobby and Cheryl Riley, Joe Riley and Jim and Renita Riley; son-in-law, Ed Crow; 22 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Geraldine Hall; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Raleigh and Doris Schooley and LaVon and Mildred Schooley; five sisters-in-law, Vivian Schooley, Billie Brizendine, Mickey Munoz, Myrtle Riley and Dottie Riley; and numerous other relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband, Homan Riley; two daughters, Joyce Ann Riley and Mary Katherine Crow; three sons-in-law, Frank Creasey Sr., Wayne Williams, and James Warwick; two sisters, Louise Hall and Bennie Lee Grant; and two brothers, Clyde Schooley and Jack Schooley.
Burnet Bulletin, 24 June 1993
James Kyle Riley, 78, Marble Falls, died June 11. Memorial services were June 16, in Forest Park Westheimer Chapel, Houston. Services were under the direction of Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home.
Born Sept. 9, 1915, in Mathis, he was the son of James K. Riley and Myrtle Best. He was a geophysicist most of his career and was a member of the Church of Christ.
Survivors include his wife Virginia Kendrick Riley, Marble Falls; two daughters, Jennifer Taylor, Blanco, and Virginia Sexton, League City; one brother, Nathan Riley, San Antonio; two sisters, Katherine Waters, Eureka, and Paula Teat, Bay City; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Burnet Bulletin, Dec. 1925, contributed by Barry Caraway, nephew
F. M. Ripley, an old-time resident of Burnet County died Tuesday evening, December 8th 1925, at this place. The body was interred Wednesday afternoon, in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rev. C. C. McKinney, Methodist pastor, officiating.
At the time, of his death Mr. Ripley was 75 years, 10 months and 7 days of age. He had been residing in Burnet for a number of years, making his home with his daughter, Mrs. John Ellison. He was born in Missouri, but had been in Texas for many years.
The Bulletin extends condolence to the bereaved family. A more extended notice will be published in our next issue.
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Burnet Bulletin, Dec 24, 1925
F. M. Ripley
The friends and relatives of Mr. F. M. Ripley were deeply grieved to learn of his death, December 8th, 1925. He had been very sick for several weeks and was anxiously waiting his summons to his Heavenly home. He had been a good member of the M. E. Church for years.
Mr. Ripley lived to the ripe old age of 75 years and had he remained yet a few days would have passed his 76th birthday on February 1. 1926. He came to Burnet about eight years ago, at which time his wife was an invalid. She passed away only a few weeks after their arrival at this place and was buried here.
This old friend was a pleasant companion and is greatly missed around town where his pleasant face was ever welcome. The Burnet people deeply sympathize with the daughter, Mrs. John Ellason and her family in this bereavement and with the two sons, Mr. John Ripley of Harlingen, Texas and Mr. Charlie Ripley of Aqua Dulce.
We can only point them to the Heavenly Father for comfort in their sorrow by Him who doeth all things well. Yet a little while and they too will go on to a happy reunion in the better land. Maggie LaForge.
Submitted by Gerald D. Watkins
From The Lampasas Leader, September 19, 1924
Dies Suddenly.
Mrs. Zina Robinson died suddenly Thursday morning at 10 o'clock at the home of her sister, Mrs. H.M. Murphy. She had not been feeling well for several days, but had not been sick enough to go to bed, and was looking after some of the household duties when she was stricken with death. She was bending over a trunk looking for some article of clothing and felt herself giving way to a fainting spell and called to Mrs. Murphy. Before Mr. Murphy could reach her she had fallen on the floor, and expired in a few minutes. Had she lived until the second day of February she would have been eighty-three years old.
The Deceased came to Lampasas with her sister, Mrs. Murphy, about a year ago, and previous to that time lived in Burnet county, near Bertram, for fifty years or more. She had no children of her own, but had reared one child, who is now married and lives in Houston, but it is not known at this time whether she can reach here in time for the funeral or not. The funeral procession will leave the home of Mr. and Mrs. Murphy Friday at 1 o'clock, and interment will be made in Shady Grove cemetery in Burnet county. The deceased was a member of the Methodist church and had lived a useful life.
Burnet Bulletin, 13 June 1907
On last Thursday, June the 6th, our entire community was badly shocked by the death of Miss Pearl Rodgers.
Miss Pearl was a very healthy [several words unreadable on microfilm] Éone week before her death she was in robust health, lively and cheerful, but before noon she was taken very ill, with great pain. Her friends and relatives and physician were sent for and all seemed very well for three or four days, when she began to grow worse. Her parents were called for by phone and her mother and brother came on the train on last Wednesday, but she was so very sick she could not talk much with her mother. Her pain grew worse in spite of the skill of the physician and careful nurses. The second physician was called in consultation, but the death angel was calling and earthly skill and nursing did no good. Sad death came about 2:30 o'clock P.M., June the 6th. Her father was at once notified by phone at Field's Creek Texas. He immediately came by private conveyance bringing the rest of his family, driving the entire night and arriving here just before the funeral. Oh, it was so sad to see these loving friends weeping over their darling daughter, but weep not dear father and mother. Oh! Weep not loving brothers and sisters, for Pearl is only sleeping. God in his wisdom has seen fit to call her home and the grand and noble life she has lived should be consoling to you loving ones, and in the sweet by and by you may meet her to part no more.
Miss Pearl Rodgers was born near Smithwick, July 6th, 1885, and was raised up here until 1901, her father, James Rodgers, moved to Fields' Creek, Texas, and in 1905 she came to Smithwick to live with her aged grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. L. L. Rodgers and during the school term of that year attend school. After the school was out she returned to live with her parents at Field's Creek. Owing to the fact of her grand parents being very old and having a great love and respect for them and their not having any one to live with them, she returned to live with them July the 6th 1906. On the 2nd day of March 1907 her grandfather died, leaving her and her grandmother.
Miss Pearl has been a professor of religion for several years and has lived a consistent life. Every one that knew her loved her. She leaves a father and mother and several brothers and sisters and a host of friends to mourn her death.
She was interred in the Smithwick Cemetery Friday June the 7th 1907. Rev. R. A. Mobley conducted the funeral services and paying the last tribute of respect by some of her friends by a beautiful floral offering at 5 o'clock P.M. June the 7th 1907. By a Friend.
Burnet Bulletin, Oct 14, 1879; contributed by Barry Caraway
It became our painful duty to announce the death of one of our oldest citizen, Anton Rolef, who departed this life last Friday, the 10th, just in his 75th year of age. He was born in Germany on 25th day of June 1805.
submitted by "Shay Hillman" <[email protected]>, May 2002, Date and Source Unknown
[Note from Shay Hillman: Arthur Ross was born in Bertram. but later moved. He is the brother of Walter Ross. I have since learned that Ulysses Henry Ross and Sarah Catherine had 6 sons all born in Bertram--Walter, Arthur, Luther, Edgar, Oscar, and Aylmer. Unfortunately, the obit does not include the death date or the year. I have calculated that he would have died in 1938-1939. The article makes it sound like he died either January or February 1939, but I cannot assume that.]
Funeral Services Held Friday for Arthur Ross
Arthur Ross, a retired railroad man, died at the home of his son, H.D. [of] Dumas, Wednesday morning at 10:30. Mr. Ross, who was 71 years of age at the time of his death, had a stroke at 2:00 o'clock, Wednesday morning. Prior to that time, he had never been ill in his life.
His wife, Nola Jane Ross, died in Amarillo. Mr. Ross is survived by two sons, Charles Ray Ross of Los Angeles, California, and H.D. Ross of Dumas. He is also survived by four brothers: Walter Ross, Oscar Ross, Aylmer Ross of Bertram and Edgar Ross of Lometa.
Mr. Ross had been a resident of Dumas for about nine months, coming here from Amarillo. He was a member of the Methodist Church in Amarillo.
Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 2:30 at the Methodist Church in Dumas, with Rev. Phil H. Gates officiating.--The Moore County News, Dumas Texas.
Editor's Note: Arthur Ross was well known by the old timers in this section, and many of the citizens met him last year when he visited his brothers here. Mr. Ross was born March 11th, 1867 (in Bertram), and would have been 72 years of age in March. The Enterprise joins the many friends of the bereaved brothers in extending condolence at this sad hour.
submitted by "Shay Hillman" <[email protected]>, May 2002, Source Unknown
Jesse A. Ross was born July 28, 1927 in Bertram, Texas to Samuel Carlos Ross and Carroll Gaynelle Wilson Ross. He married Martha Agnes Schumacher in 1977 in Midland, Texas. Mr. Ross served in the U.S. Navy in 1946 and was a retired cargo inspector for American Petrofina.
Survivors include his wife, Martha Schumacher Ross of Midland; children, Carlos Ross and his wife bof Las Vegas, Nevada, Vicki Wood of Odessa, Mary Fields and her husband Tom of Germany, Jim Hillman and his wife, Sherry of Midland, Marilyn Davidson of Plantation, Florida, Margaret Gafford and her husband Dan, of Lubbock, Doug Hillman and his wife Charlsa, of Midland, Carol Routh and her husband Toby of Las Vegas, John (Gator) Hillman and his wife Theresa, of Midland, Don Hillman and his wife Shay, of San Angelo; 27 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.
Mr. Ross passed away Saturday, March 30, 2002 in a Midland hospital. Services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 2, 2002 in Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home.
Author: Doris Johnston
Date: 16 Nov 1998 12:00 PM GMT
This was my great-grandfather's Obit. When John A. Ross died on April 7, 1917, the Burnet Bulletin carried the following obituary:
MR. JOHN ROSS DEAD
Mr. John Ross, an old citizen of this place, died Saturday, April7th. His body was interred Sunday in the Old Cemetery, Rev. J. A. Pledger conducting the services at the house and J. H. Stapp concluding same at the cemetery. A large concourse of friends and relatives attended the funeral. He leaves a wife and two children, besides other relatives and numerous friends to mourn his death. His children are Will Ross of this place, and Mrs. Katie Stevens of Denton.
The following veterans acted as pall-bearers: D. T. Mann, Jno.L. Stewart, J. C. King, Jas. A. Stevens, and A. J. Lackey, Ex-U.S.regular.
Mr. Ross was 76 years old at the time of his death. He came to Burnet 43 years ago and had been a citizen of this county a great deal of the time since.
He was a gallant Confederate veteran. During the Civil War he was engaged in forty-seven battles and skirmishes. The more important battles were Jackson, Shiloh, Chickamauga and Franklin. In all of this fighting he proved a splendid soldier and could be depended upon to do his duty.
There was no better citizens than Mr. Ross. He was a kind and loving father, a genial and obliging neighbor and a true Christian gentleman, having been a member of the Methodist Church for thirty years. He was universally liked and respected, and he will be missed by his many friends.
The Bulletin joins the people of this community in extending sympathy to the sorrowing relatives.
Author: Doris Johnston
Date: 16 Nov 1998 12:00 PM GMT
I don't have the publication date on this Burnet Bulletin obituary of my gr-grandmother.
Martha Frances (Daugherty) "Fannie" Ross died August 15, 1918, Burnet. after an illness of "several months," according to her obituary in the Burnet Bulletin. The certificate of physician, J. L. Williamson, attached to her Confederate widow's pension's Application for Mortuary Warrant, stated his opinion that her illness was caused by cancer. J. H. Stapp signed as undertaker. He was paid $30.
MRS. JOHN A ROSS DEAD
After an illness of several months duration, Mrs. John A. Ross died last Wedneday morning at the home of her son, Will Ross. Her body was interred that same afternoon in the Old Cemetery. Although sick a long time, she bore her suffering with fortitude and Christian resignation. Her son, other relatives and friends, did all they could to make her last days as comfortable as possible. She was a good woman, a fond mother and a kind neighbor. The Bulletin joins in extending sympathy to the bereaved relatives.
submitted by "Shay Hillman" <[email protected]>, May 2002, Source: Bertram Enterprise, Date Unknown
Mrs. Sarah C. Ross Died Sunday Evening: Buried at Bertram
Mrs. Sarah C. Ross died Sunday evening, April 7th (1929) at the home of her son, Mr. Edgar Ross in Lometa after a long illness. She had been in failing health for the past few months, and due to her age, nothing could be done for her.
Funeral services were conducted Monday afternoon at the South Gabriel Cemetery by Rev. L.C. Matthis, pastor of the First Methodist Church of Bertram. A large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends attended the services.
Mrs. Sarah C. Pugh Ross was born June 30th 1836 in Tennessee. She was united in marriage to Mr. U. H. Ross on September 18th 1862 and to this union seven children were born, five of whom are now living. Mary Ophelia Ross died September 13th 1869, and Luther Ross died February 13th 1918. Mr. and Mrs. Ross moved to Texas and settled in Fannin County, and in 1892 they moved to Burnet County. Mrs. Ross lived at Bertram and in Burnet County for about thirty-seven years.
Grandma Ross, as she was affectionately called by everyone who knew her, was a typical Southern lady, and was held in high esteem by all her acquaintances. She was converted about 40 years ago and joined the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and lived a consecrated Christian life. For several years she had been making her home with her children, spending a great deal of time in Lometa. She often visited in Bertram, and her many friends were always glad to see her. Last year Grandma Ross and Grandma Williams of Mahomet, both old pioneers of Burnet County and both having passed the 90th mile post in life, attended the Burnet County Fair and enjoyed a long talk together. They were both well and hearty then, but now they have both passed on to their reward.
Deceased is survived by five sons, Walter Ross of Bertram, Arthur Ross of Amarillo, Edgar Ross of Lometa, Oscar Ross and Aylmer Ross of Bertram. At the time of her death she was 92 years, 9 months, and 7 days of age.
The Enterprise joins the many friends of the family in extending condolence.
Burnet Bulletin, -----------, From Barry Caraway
The Holy Angels came last Wednesday, May 18th, and took Art Rutland from this world of sin and pain to a world where there is no more sickness, pain or death.
Art was a good boy. He never was known to give any one cross word. Such was his earlier training as to result in the beautiful character which he possessed. Kind and sympathetic he was admired by all. O that we all might be as observent to the duties and observant of the rights of mankind as was he.
Mr. Rutland leaves a mother, wife, and several brothers and sisters to mourn his death. Three children preceded him to that better land where they awaited and welcomed his coming. As we are sympathizing with the bereaved relatives, let us all resolve to live a life worthy of that Home where all is well. A Sister-In-Law
Burnet Bulletin, Jan 3, 1924; From Barry Caraway
W. E. Fry was called to Bachelor's peak last Saturday to the funeral service of Mr. Tom Rutledge, a former citizen of this place, who died Saturday night at his home in Austin. He died very suddenly of an affectation of the heart. While a resident of Burnet, Mr. Rutledge was first in the phone business and then in a mercantile firm. The Bulletin joins other friends in extending condolence to the bereaved family
