Andrew Jackson Branom, was born in Monroe, Overton county, Tenn., Aug. 13, 1830, and died at his home in Waverly, Ill., May 29, 1909.

August 9, 1847, he was united in marriage to Miss Martha Arnett, who is still living, but quite feeble in body. To this union were born twelve children; James, Sarah, Martha, Frances, John, Andrew, Mary, Alice, Charles, Newton, Belle and Hattie. Three of the children, Sarah, Frances, and Andrew preceded him to the grave, leaving the mother and nine children to mourn their loss.

Brother and sister Branom came to this state in the year 1851, and have lived in or near Waverly ever since. They are well known and highly esteemed citizens.

Soon after coming to this state, he professed religion at the New Hope church and united with the M. E. church at that place. Later, he united with the M. E. church, South, at Appalonia, and from there his membership was transferred to Waverly M.E. church, South, in the year 1884. In his early life he was a regular attendant at church services, but owing to severe bodily afflictions, for many years prior to his death, he attended church only occasionally.

He was a great sufferer for many years, and God alone knows the effects of this on his life. In his last illness, he often talked to the children advising them as to how they should live, and telling them he was ready to go, and only wished how soon the good Lord might see fit to release him from suffering and take him home. Though suffering greatly, he often sang for his own comfort, selections from the old church hymns.

O death, where is thy sting?
O grave where is thy victory?
The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord, Jesus Christ.

The funeral services were conducted by Rev. W. T. Mathis, P. E. and R. J. Watts, P. C., in the M.E. church, South, May 30, a large sympathizing congregation attending, after which the remains were laid to rest in Rogers cemetery to await the resurrection of the just.