Jacksonville Courier, 2 Sep 1904

Thomas Burrus, another of Morgan county's oldest and most respected pioneers, departed this life last Wednesday morning at 4 o'clock at the home of his daughter, Mrs. George naylor, in Meredosia, with whom he had made his home many years. Mr. Burrus was born in Tennessee Aug. 14, 1828, and came to this state with his parents when quite a young boy. He was married to Miss Ellen Jane Masterson in Morgan County, Illinois, Sept. 10, 1847, with whom he lived happily for many years. To this union eight children were born, four of whom are living: Mrs. Jane Guthrie of Pittsville, Cal., Mrs. George (Mary) Naylor of Meredosia, Ill., William David of Emporia, Kan., and John Edward of Bristol, Tenn. Three brothers a and one sister also survive him, namely, Charles of Naples, Joseph, of McKendree Chapel, Matthew and Mrs. Elizabeth Beauchamp, residing at Greenview.

Uncle Tommy was a man of beautiful Christian character, honest in all his dealings with his fellow man. He was converted in early youth, uniting with the Methodist church. The world was made better by his having lived in it. A brief service was held at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. George Naylor at 8:30 a.m. and at 11 o'clock more extensive services were held at McKendree Chapel. A large concourse of sorrowing friends followed the remains to the Burrus Cemetery, where the internment took place.

Jacksonville Journal, Saturday, Feb. 15, 1902

William Burrus, son of Martin Burrus and Elizabeth Burrus, was born in Overton County, Tennessee, April 26, 1820, being the eldest of twelve children. In company with his parents he came to Morgan county at the age of 12 and has since resided here. He was married Feb. 17, 1842, to Nancy Masterson and to them were born eleven children, seven of whom are living: Thomas J., Benjamin J., William M., Alexander, Eliza A., Mary C., and Martha J. The four deceased children are Elizabeth C., John H., James M., and Felix O. Besides his children he is survived by four brothers and a sister, Thomas, Matthew, Charles and Joseph and Elizabeth Beauchamp, wife of Edward Beauchamp, of Menard County. he is also survived by 33 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

the deceased was one of the founders of the Methodist church of which he was at his death, the oldest member. His wife preceded him about five years ago. All his long life he was a kind and loving father and a faithful friend. He was an exemplary Christian citizen and his faithful life might profitably be emulated by those who mourn his departure. His influence will rest like a benediction upon all who have known him. The funeral was conducted from the late home Wednesday, Feb. 12, 1902, where a short service was held. Services were continued at McKendree Chapel at 11 o'clock by Rev. W. T. Evans who preached an affecting sermon. The bearers were six of his grandchildren: Thomas Burrus, George Burrus, Edgar Burrus, James McLain and Albert Harriman.