The body of Dennis J. Harkey, 57, long time Dickens resident and abstractor, was found about 11:00 o'clock last Saturday morning in his abstract office in Dickens, a German pistol (Luger) beside it.One shot had taken effect in the head.
A note was left to family members, Roy Ward, Justice of Peace, who entered verdict of death from gunshot wounds self-inflicted, said after a coroner's inquest.
Ward said Harkey was found dead by his wife approximately 30 minutes after he had told A.J. Richey, a farmer friend, he was "feeling bad" and had gone into his office.
The note, Ward said, related that Harkey had been in failing health and didn't feel like working longer.
Dennis Harkey was born in San Saba County, Texas, December 20, 1889 and has made Dickens County his home for the past 53 years. He was married to Grace Chumbley at Dickens in 1914. He was converted in 1917 and was affiliated with the Church of Christ.
Services were conducted Monday at 3 o'clock at the Church of Christ in Dickens, with Roby Deaver officiating. Burial was in the Dickens Cemetery under the direction of Chandler Funeral Home.
Pallbearers were Robert McAteer, O.L Kelley, Bud Morrison, L.D. Rafliff, Horace Gibson and Guy Goen.
Survivors are the wife, his father, Eli Harkey of Dickens, a son, Mike Harkey of Abilene; three daughters, Mrs. Herman Van Pelt of Gainesville; Mrs. Geo. W. Stephen of Lubbock and Mrs. Keith Garner of Dickens. Three brothers, R.S. of Dickens, L.R. of Flagstaff, Arizo., who was unable to attend the funeral and Loren Harkey of Amarillo; three sisters, Mrs. Leo Petty of Abilene, Mrs. S.L. Davis of Corpus Christi, and Mrs. Johnnie Lewis of Jayton. Six grandchildren also survive.
©The Texas Spur, October 9, 1947
Transcribed February 21, 2005 by DCHC members
© Dickens County Historical Commission 1997-2022
This site may be freely linked to but not duplicated in any fashion without consent. |
