The following obituaries & death notices are extracted from historical newspapers; submissions are welcome. Many come from the Roanoke Beacon Newspaper; digital issues of the paper, from 1889-1918, are available at https://www.digitalnc.org/newspapers/roanoke-beacon-plymouth-nc. In some cases, I have done research to identify individuals listed so some will have a hyperlink to either their profile at FamilySearch Family Tree or Find-A-Grave. Please also note, as these items are extracted from historical newspapers and are transcribed as they appeared.
A Surnames
ALEXANDER, W.A. – Our community was greatly shocked on Wednesday evening when it learned that Mr. W.A. ALEXANDER was dead. Mr. ALEXANDER went to his mill on Wednesday morning in seemingly usual health. About 11 o’clock it was thought he had fainted and the physicians of the town were summoned, who soon pronounced it hemmorhage of the brain, and recovery impossible. At 5 o’clock that evening he died at his office, it not being thought best to carry him home during his suffering. Mr. ALEXANDER was well known in this county, being a native of Creswell, where he was interested quite extensively in farming, but of late years he has resided in Plymouth, he being manager and part owner of the Plymouth Milling Co. The deceased was 48 years old and leaves several brothers, a wife and four small children to mourn their loss. He was a consistent member of the M.P. Church, a loving and kind husband and father and a good citizen. The remains were taken to Creswell yesterday morning and interred in the family burying ground. We join their many friends in extending to the bereaved ones our heartfelt sympathy in their deep distress. Surely an upright man has gone to his reward. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 5 Oct 1900 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
ARMISTEAD, Prosper – On Friday morning last, Nov. 29th, after an illness of three days only, Prosper ARMISTEAD departed this life at his home near this town. The deceased was in his 65th year and has long been recognized from his association with so much of the old time history of Plymouth as one of its people for whom a deep sincere and most friendly interest was cherished. Prior to the war he was the body servant of Dr. Robert ARMISTEAD… [Read the rest of the obituary at digitalnc.org – Roanoke Beacon, 06 December 1889, page 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
ARMISTEAD, Robert – Died at Plymouth, on the 7th inst., Mr. Robert ARMISTEAD, a respectable merchant of that place. [Source: Raleigh Register and North Carolina Weekly Advertiser, 11 November 1806]
AUSBON, Priscilla N. (Mrs.) – was born January 24, 184? and died at her home in Plymouth, N.C., March 1, 1900. For many years she was a worthy and consistent member of the M.E. Church, South, being at the time of her death one of the oldest members on the church roll. So long as her health would permit she was always a <…> attendant upon the ordinances of her church and showed a willingness to make any sacrifice to advance the cause of Christ. She was indeed a devoted and sweet spirited Christian, and those who were intimate with her felt uplifted by the influence of her godly life. Her latter days were times of great suffering, but while she knew that death could not be far off she was still patient in her afflictions, for she “endured as seeing him who is invisible.” The Death Messenger found her ready and willing to obey the summons hence, and the tradition from this world of suffering to that of peace and joy was for her a happy change. “Therefore are they before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat; for the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters, and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.” Rev. 7: 15-17. Among the surviving loved ones are an aged sister and two sons. Her husband, Mr. W.J. AUSBON, who was a brave soldier in the civil war, preceded her to the other shore just 30 years. A large concourse of friends attended the funeral services held by her pastor from the church of her communion, and then her mortal remains were carried to the grave to await the hour “in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice and shall come forth, they that have done good unto the resurrection of life.” — J.L. Romley [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 9 Mar 1900 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
B Surnames
BATEMAN, Jesper – DIED. Benj. HOWCUTT, on the 20th inst., and Jesper BATEMAN, on the 21st; both colored. HOWCUTT was 40 years of age and BATEMAN 68. They were highly respected by both black and white. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 28 February 1890, page 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree]
BEASLEY, John M. (Capt.) – After a lingering illness, from a complication of diseases, Capt. John M. BEASLEY, a well and favorably known citizen of this town, died on Saturday afternoon last, aged about 74 years. The deceased had been married three times, and leaves a widow and several children, by his former marriages, to mourn his departure, there being no children by his last marriage. Capt. BEASLEY had been for many years a consistent member of the M.E. church; his life was blameless in the sight of his fellow men, and we truly believe if any man’s spirit went straight from earth to heaven his did so, and that he is now singing hozannas with his God he loved so well. We sympathize with those left behind, but they have the blessed assurance that their loss is his eternal gain. The remains were interred in the Jackson burying ground, near this town, on Sunday afternoon. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 2 November 1900 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
BISHOP, Daniel – The relatives and friends of the two colored men, Daniel BISHOP and James HART, who were drowned on Wednesday, return thanks to S.M. WHALEY for financial assistance rendered in the burial of the same. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 17 January 1890, page 2]
BLOUNT, J.G. – DIED. Mr. J.G. BLOUNT, of pneumonia at his home in Roper, on Wednesday, March 5th, 1890. The deceased leaves a wife and one child and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss, to which the Beacon extends its most sincere sympathies. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 7 March 1890, pg 3.]
BOSMAN, Emily – one of the oldest and most highly respected colored women of this town, died on Saturday night last. Aunt Emily was one of the few who looked back upon the Ante Bellum days with a kind thought. She always referred to her slavery days with the kindest regard for her owners. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 24 January 1890, page 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
BUCHANNON, Mary (Mrs.) – Mrs. May BUCHANNON, nee WINDLEY, died Saturday night about 11 o’clock and was buried on Monday at 10 o’clock. [Excerpt from the Roper Letter column (dated June 25, 1890), Roanoke Beacon, 27 June 1890, pg 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile] Editorial note: Her last name appears to actually be “Buchanan.”
C Surnames
CARKEET, Sallie Ann – relict of W.M. KARKEET [sic], was born in Washington county, NC, Nov 3d, 1824, and died Aug. 10th, 1900, in Plymouth, NC, near the place of her birth. Sister CARKEET was the only daughter of Samuel DAVENPORT, who lived to reach the age of maturity. She was early sent to school and soon became proficient in the elementary branches taught in the public schools. She began teaching at about 18 years old and continued in the service for over forty years. In 1842, she was married toJas. S. WOOD and lived with him until his death in 1851. To this union was given three children, one son and two daughters. She was again married in 1854 to Mr. W.M. CARKEET, with whom she lived until 1877, when he died. Sister CARKETT had been a sufferer from heart trouble and rheumatism for many years, but not enough to keep her from her work until about 1891, when she went to live with her son in Berkeley, Va. In 1896 she had a paralytic stroke and the attending physician thought the end was not far off, but her almost invincible constitution was not yet broken down and she soon began to recuperate, and in 1898 she was able to visit her daughter, Mrs. C.J. N(aroon?) in Plymouth, where she remained until her death. She has been a member of the Church of Christ for many years, holding membership at Christian Hope. [Source: Transcribed from “The Watch Tower”, Washington, NC., Vol. 23, New Series. Obituary was originally published September 28, 1900. This transcription came from the Mar 1990 issue of the newsletter of the Washington County Genealogical Association.]
CARMALT, Julia – “A Sad Accident.” Miss Julia CARMALT, one of Washington’s most attractive young ladies accidentally shot herself with a pistol on the night of the 9th inst., which resulted in her death on the following day. It seems that the alarm of fire was given and her parents went out to the scene of the alarm and the young lady, who had retired, being left alone, got up and took a pistol to bed with her for protection if anything should happen, and in some way it was discharged with the above result. The sad accident has cast a shadow over the entire town. The Washington Progress in speaking of it says: “She was a young lady of about 17 summers and had one of the best and most lovable dispositions that we ever knew. She was a perfect gem in intellect and a general favorite. She was confirmed at St. Peter’s by Bishop WATSON on the Sunday before. She was a ways first in everything she undertook. She was gifted with a great deal of natural talent, and both modest and unassuming. She was plucked as it were, a flower <…> fresh with the morning dew and is no more.” [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 18 April 1890, page 3]
CHESSON, Lonnie – Those who knew him were greatly shocked on Friday last to hear of the sudden death of Mr. Lonnie CHESSON, of Mackey’s Ferry. Mr. CHESSON was taken with appendicitis and died while undergoing a surgical operation. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 20 Jul 1900]
CLIFTON, Jesse – the little six-year-old son of Capt. Thomas CLIFTON, keeper of the Roanoke Light, was drowned at the lighthouse on Friday last. It seems that the little boy had gone downstairs after some wood and not returning his mother went to see what was the matter, not finding him she gave the alarm that he was gone then the men gave search and just as they were giving up in despair, thinking that he then slept near by beneath the waves, they looked out upon the sound, there about 100 yards away they saw his little form being towed to and fro upon the white capped billows. [Editorial note – this is an abbreviated version of the obituary; read the full obituary in the 9 May 1890 issue of the Roanoke Beacon newspaper] View FamilySearch Family Tree profile.
D Surnames
DARDEN, Hester A. (Mrs.) – DIED. At her home near Plymouth, May 10th, 1890, Mrs. Hester A. DARDEN. The deceased was born in Washington county near Plymouth, Nov. 16, 1829 and was therefore sixty years, five months and twenty six days old, the youngest child of Hardy and Clarkey EVERETT. She was married on the 16th of February 1847 to Mr. John DARDEN who died Nov. 16 1883 after a long and useful life. No woman could be more faithful to her husband than Mrs. DARDEN was, she was a devoted wife, an affectionate mother and a constant friend. She was the mother of nine children, three girls and six boys two of which have preceeded her across the river of death. The writer can but inscribe upon the melancholy page that records her death in his condolence with her bereaved children and many friends. — J.A. S. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 23 May 1890, page 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree]
DAVENPORT, Haywood (Capt.) – the death of Capt. Haywood DAVENPORT on Tuesday morning last sent a thrill of grief throughout this town. He had been in ill health for a year or more, and his seeking relief under the treatment of the best medical men was of little avail. He recently came to Plymouth to make his home once more where his early years were spent; he contracted a deep cold which terminated in pneumonia, causing his death seven days later. There never lived a truer man; kind-hearted, sympathetic, and generous to a fault. Those who knew him best loved him most. He leaves two children, a son and daughter, a sister and other relatives as well as a host of friends to mourn his death. His remains were laid to rest in family graveyard under the shadow of the M.E. Church, to which he belonged, on Wednesday. The writer, who if possible, loved him better than the rest, join all in heartfelt sympathy. — FLETCHER [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 2 Mar 1900 | View FamilySearch Family Tree]
DAVENPORT, Mary M. – DIED in Washington County, at the residence of her husband, Doctrine P. DAVENPORT, Mrs. Mary M. DAVENPORT, in the 20th year of her age. [Source: Raleigh Register, 12 February 1848 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
DAVENPORT, Masy (Mr.) – DIED. Mr. Masy DAVENPORT, one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of this county, departed this life on Sunday night, Oct. 20th, at his home near town. The deceased was in the 89th year of his age, was an honest and obliging man, and in his death the county loses one of its best citizens. Our sympathies go out to the bereaved family and friends. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 25 October 1889, page 3]
DAVENPORT, Snowden – At his home on Long Ridge of pneumonia, Monday, March 17, 1890, Mr. Snowden DAVENPORT, age 65 years. The deceased leaves a wife and three children to mourn his loss. From his earliest days Mr. DAVENPORT has been a member of the Baptist church and has lived the life of a devoted Christian and we are sure our loss is his eternal gain. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 21 March 1890, pg 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree]
DAVIS, Peter – “A Boy Lost” – On Monday evening a report was circulated that Peter DAVIS, a colored boy, was missing. Search was made throughout the town, but his whereabouts could not be learned. On Tuesday morning the little five year-old son of Jos. MITCHELL told that he and the missing boy were at play near the river on Monday and that the boy DAVIS fell in the river, and then led the anxious parents to the point where he said DAVIS fell in. At this point was found the boy’s had, but no other evidence of his being drowned. A party went out in boats and dragged the river for the body, but as yet it has not been found. The accident should be a reminder to parents both white and back, that the banks of the river is no place to allow their children to play. LATER — The boy was found in the river on Wednesday evening, half a mile below where he fell in. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 15 August 1890, page 3]
DOWNING, William Cotton – Our community was painfully shocked on Saturday morning last, the 8th inst., by the receipt of a telegram from Turtle Creek, Penn., the adopted home of the deceased, that Wm. Cotton DOWNING was dead, his death occurring suddenly in Asheville, N.C., on Thursday, the 6th inst. He had been visiting the mountain section of North Carolina on a business tour with friends from Pittsburg, and a letter received by him who pens this humble tribute to his memory, spoke hopefully of the work he was engaged in and in most cheering terms of himself. His purpose then, was to make a visit to Eastern Carolina, and this, his old home after completing his work in the West before returning to Pennsylvania. But alas! For human hope or purpose. The glad expectancy of meeting our dear and honored friend is turned into tears of disappointment in this sad, sudden notice that he has been called away from earth forever, and for the warm welcome we trusted to give him when he should have returned among us, we come instead with sorrowful heart to lay this memorial tribute upon his bier. Wm. Cotton Downing was the oldest son of Harry DOWNING and Mary Elizabeth his wife, of Lees Mills, an old and honored family of this county, and was born April 10th 1850. [Read the rest of obituary online: Roanoke Beacon, 14 March 1890, pg 2. | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
E Surnames
EVERETT, Johnnie H. – DIED — At his home near Scotland Neck, Johnnie H., eldest son of C.B. and C.E. EVERETT. This little boy was taken suddenly ill on the morning of the 21st of August, he was given the attention of one of our most skillful physicians but all his medical power failed to render relief as the time for his departure was at hand, so after about fourteen hours suffering his little spirit was called to take its flight to Him who gave it. This was a deeply interesting little boy for one so young being five years and eight months old. It seemed that the holy one above directed his thoughts which caused him to converse with his mother upon the wonderful things of the eternal world. — T.E.A. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 5 September 1890]
G Surnames
GAYLORD, J.H. (Mrs.) – Died — at her home in this town on Tuesday night last, Mrs. J.H. GAYLORD. Mrs. GAYLORD was taken ill only a few days ago, with typhoid fever, and grew rapidly worse until death ended her sufferings. She leaves a husband, sister and brothers, besides seven children, two of whom are married, the other five being little ones, to mourn their loss. We deeply sympathize with the bereaved ones in their hour of darkest affliction. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 21 Sep 1900 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
GAYLORD, John (Mrs.) – Mrs. John GAYLORD, who has been a great sufferer for several months, departed this life on Saturday last, and her remains were interred in St. Luke’s cemetery yesterday morning. We extend to the bereaved family our deepest sympathies in their loss. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 8 August 1890, page 3 – in the Roper Letter column dated 5 August 1890 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
GREEN, [child] – We regret to announce the death of the little child of Mr. Thos. GREEN of this place and our warmest sympathies go out to the bereaved parents, but weep not dear friends, remember God has said “suffer little children to come unto me” and that he in his divine goodness has called this little one to his arms, to that bright home where pain and sorrow is known no more. [Source: excerpted from the Long Ridge Letter column (dated April 21, 1890) of the Roanoke Beacon, 25 April 1890, pg 2]
GURKIN, Harry – Nags Head, NC – Harry Willoughby GURKIN, 82, of Holden St., South Nags Head, died Sunday, Dec. 11, 1994, in an Elizabeth City hospital. Mr. GURKIN was a native of Plymouth, NC, and was the retired owner/operator of Southern Hardware Co. in Plymouth. He was a graduate of Plymouth High School and attended North Carolina State University. Mr. GURKIN was a former employee of Weyerhaeuser, president of Gurkin Enterprises, Inc., served on the Plymouth School Board, was a member of Plymouth United Methodist Church and an active member of Plymouth Fire Department for 29 years. He also served as Commander for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Sea Scouts, past president of Plymouth Rotary Club and was active in establishing the Washington County Public Library, Plymouth. Mr. GURKIN was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy on North Atlantic convoy duty. He was the son of the late Luther Warren GURKIN and Mrs. Margie Willoughby GURKIN. He was predeceased by his first wife, Ethel Mae Taylor GURKIN, and is survived by his wife, Aline Midgett ROBBINS of the home. Besides his wife, Mr. GURKIN is survived by a son, Harry W. GURKIN Jr., of Washington, DC. A memorial service will be conducted in Plymouth United Methodist Church at 2pm today by the Rev. Jim OLIVER, with Horner-Walker Funeral Home, Plymouth, in charge. Twiford Colony Chapel, Manteo, is in charge of local arrangements. The family suggests that memorials may be made to the Plymouth United Methodist Church, 3rd St., Plymouth, N.C. 27962, Bethany United Methodist Church, Wanchese, NC, 27981, or a charity of one’s choice. [Source: Coastland Times, 13 December 1994, page 8A | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
H Surnames
HANKINS, Jerry – DIED – At his home in this town on Saturday last, Jerry HANKINS, an aged and highly respected colored man. The burial services were conducted on Sunday afternoon at 4 o’clock by the Odd Fellows, of which order the deceased was a member. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 12 September 1890 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
HARRISON, Isaac – Mr. Isaac HARRISON, a highly respected farmer living near town, died very suddenly on Friday morning last, age 72 years. He was buried at the family burial grounds Sunday morning, Rev. C.W. ROBINSON conducting the ceremonies. Our heart felt sympathies are extended to the bereaved family. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 18 April 1890, page 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
HART, James – The relatives and friends of the two colored men, Daniel BISHOP and James HART, who were drowned on Wednesday, return thanks to S.M. WHALEY for financial assistance rendered in the burial of the same. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 17 January 1890, page 2]
HOWARD, Sallie – DIED – At her home in this town on Thursday morning last, July 31st, after a short but painful illness, Mrs. Sallie HOWARD, nee PEARCE. The deceased was the daughter of Capt. D. PEARCE, deceased, and was a native of this county. She was married on the 16th of Oct. 1889 to Mr. Charles T. HOWARD, of Norfolk, Va., who after marriage located here, where the nine months of their wedded life passed happily. The deceased was a devoted christian, a member of Grace Episcopal church, an obedient daughter and a loving and devoted wife. While it may seem hard that two lives so young and full of promise, that have been linked together in the holy bonds of matrimony, should so soon be separated forever, yet God in his infinite mercy saw fit to take the one and leave the other. Our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved husband and relatives. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 8 August 1890, page 2]
HOWELL, J. L. – On Friday, March 28th, departed this life, Mr. J.L. HOWELL, of Bronchitis, aged 44 years. He leaves a wife, one son and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. he had the skillful attention of doctors W.H. HARDISON and J.L. HASSELL, of this place, and W.H. WARD of your town. Mr. HOWELL will be missed by many people here, and elsewhere. He was Mayor of this place, and in his death our town loses one of its most valuable sons. He was one of our large stock-holders and secretary of the Creswell Academy, which office he filled with honor to the school. He was a member of the Methodist Church, and has lived the life of a devoted Christian, and we are sure our loss is his eternal gain. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 04 April 1890, page 2 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
HOWELL, J.L. – IN MEMORIAM – We today find it our solemn duty to chronicle the death of another of Washington county’s most beloved and prosperous citizens. In making his way from earth to heaven, the guardian angel that had been watching by the bedside of our dear friend for several weeks, thought proper to take with him the spirit of Mr. Julius L. HOWELL, on the 28th of March, leaving his lifeless body surrounded by kind and loving friends. The deceased leaves a wife and one child and a host of friends to mourn his untimely departure, but we find sweet relief in knowing that, though he has been taken from us, yet, our loss is his eternal gain. We mingle our sorrows with those of his many friends, and to his bereaved family we extend our most heartfelt sympathies. As a husband, he was kind, loving and true; as a father he was affectionate and forgiving; as a friend (ah, who knows better what the word friend here means than the writer) he was kind, generous and as true to those he called friends, as steel. We have only known the deceased for six years, but in that time, though short it may seem, he has proved to be to us a friend, and had he been nearer to us, we could not have taken the sad news of his death more at heart. In his death we may truly say we lose one of our staunchest friend. He has not only been such a valuable friend to us personally but no firmer friend could the Beacon boast than “X.Y.Z,” which was none other than this noble man of whom we write, he was ever found ready to help make the paper an honor to his county, for which we will ever remember him kindly. The deceased was 44 years of age, had long been a member of the Methodist Protestant Church, to which he was devoted and the rules of which he love as only Christians can. Mr. HOWELL was last year elected to the office of Mayor of Creswell, which office he has filled with credit: he was also a member of the Board of Education of the county and he always seemed to take much interest in the educational advancement of our people. His every effort in public as well as private life seemed to be for the betterment of his fellow man. This good man from us is gone forever, his lifeless remains have been laid within the tomb and covered by the cold sod, there to remain until the Great Day, all that is left of this noble character is memory. His earthly career has ended, his suffering are all over and he is now with the angels in that high home prepared for the righteous. And, as Christ came and “hath abolished death,” we will think of him in the inspired language and say: “He is not death but sleepeth.” [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 4 April 1890, pg 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
HOWCUTT, Benjamin – DIED. Benj. HOWCUTT, on the 20th inst., and Jesper BATEMAN, on the 21st; both colored. HOWCUTT was 40 years of age and BATEMAN 68. They were highly respected by both black and white. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 28 February 1890, page 2]
J Surnames
JAMES, “Aunt” Adeline – a well known and highly respected colored woman died at her home in this town on Wednesday last, of paralysis. She was about 65 years of age and had been sick only a few days. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 18 May 1900]
L Surnames
LATHAM, [infant daughter] – DIED. Near Plymouth on Sunday June 8th the infant daughter of B.D and Bertha LATHAM. The remains were laid to rest in the family burying ground on Tuesday the 10th inst. Rev. C.W. ROBINSON officiating. Weep not fond parents, but remember that God hath said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of heaven. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 13 June 1890, pg 3]
LATHAM, E.R. (Mrs.) – “Departed this Life.” At her home in this town on Wednesday night at 12 o’clock, after a long and painful illness, Mrs. E.R. LATHAM, wife of our worthy Mayor, Capt. E.R. LATHAM. The deceased was about 38 years of age, a devoted christian and member of Grace Episcopal church, a loving wife and kind mother. She leaves a husband and two children to mourn their loss. The funeral services will take place at Grace church this morning at 11 o’clock. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the bereaved relatives and friends. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 25 October 1889, page 3 | View FamilySearch Family Tree profile for Mrs. Lena Inez Latham]
LAYTON, John – Mr. John LAYTON died at the residence of Mr. H. TERRY, on Scuppernong Lake last Saturday night. Mr. LAYTON was a brother of Mrs. TERRY and had just arrived from Scotland. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 18 April 1890, pg 3]
LAYTON, John – died last week was buried on Thursday in St. Davids Cemetery. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 25 April 1890, pg 2]
LEGGETT, Alfred – DIED — At his home, corner Main and Monroe streets, Monday night at about 11 o’clock, Mr. Alfred LEGGETT, in the 66th year of his age. The deceased leaves a wife and several children to mourn his loss. The remains were interred in the Baptist church-yard on Tuesday afternoon at 4 o’clock, Rev. J.F. TUTTLE officiating. Our sympathies are extended to the bereaved. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 8 August 1890, page 2]
LITCHFIELD, Johnnie -Mr. H.A. LITCHFIELD’s little son, Johnnie, died of pneumonia last night. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 9 May 1890, pg 3]
M Surnames
MARRINER, Jennie (Mrs.) – At her home in Mackey’s Ferry on Sunday afternoon last, of strangulation of the <…>, Mrs. Jennie MARRINER, wife of Mr. L.C. MARRINER. The deceased was taken on Saturday night and died at 6 o’clock on Sunday evening. She leaves a devoted husband and several children, together with a host of friends who mourn her loss. The Beacon extends heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 23 May 1890, pg 3]
MARRINER, Louis C. – “Gone to Rest.” At twenty minutes past 1 o’clock Saturday afternoon last, the golden gates of Heaven swung open for the entrance of another little angle [sic], and at the home of its parents, Mr. L.C. and Jennie MARRINER, of Mackeys Ferry, lay the lifeless form of their infant son, Louis C. MARRINER. Grieve not, fond parents, for God says: “Suffer little children to come unto Me and forbid them not, for such is the Kingdom of Heaven.” [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 25 October 1889, page 3]
O Surnames
OLIVER, Alice C. – Entered into rest at 2 o’clock Sunday morning, September 22d, 1889, at the residence 28 Charlotte Street, Nofolk, Va., Alice C. OLIVER, adopted daughter of H.W. and C.F. OLIVER. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 01 November 1889, page 2, column 3]
OVERTON, [daughter of Daniel] – (who lives about 3 miles from here) lost a 13 year old daughter on the 20th inst., by pneumonia. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 24 January 1890, page 2, Creswell Letter column]
P Surnames
PADGETT, Ellen (Mrs.) – The grim angel of death has again visited us, filling our hearts with sadness and bearing to her eternal rest one of our dear friends, Mrs. Ellen PADGETT, who died on Wednesday, May 18th after a few hours illness. The deceased was a sister of Mr. W.F. MORRIS of this place, and leaves two children, besides a number of other relatives and friends to mourn their loss, but we mourn not as those who have no hope, for we feel that our loss is her eternal gain. Mrs. PADGETT was for many years a resident of this county, but removed with her daughter’s family to Beaufort county, near here, where the last four months of her life was spent. She was a faithful member of the Freewill Baptist Church for several years, and was honored and esteemed by all who knew her throughout her long and useful life, and of her it could not be said that she was other than a faithful servant, as her life seemed one long struggle to do her duty and aid and comfort the suffering ones around her. The funeral services were conducted by Mr. H.S. GURGANOUS at her residence, after which her remains were laid by the side of her husband in the graveyard of her old home. We extend to her sorrowing relatives our heartfelt sympathy. Weep not friends, but remember though it is indeed hard to consign those we love to the tomb, that our blessed Saviour doeth all things well, and let us pray to be worthy to meet our loved ones in that home prepared for the final faithful, where no storm cloud of sorrow can disturb our perfect peace, or most of tears dim our vision; let us pray that we may be among those thrice blessed ones of whom it is said “They shall walk with Him, in white, for they are worthy.” With the best of wishes for the success of the Beacon I will close with the promise to write again ere long. — Wild Rose [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 6 June 1890, pg 2]
S Surnames
SIMPSON, Sadie – On Sunday morning last news reached this town that a colored girl name [sic] Sadie SIMPSON, age ten years, had been found at her mothers house near Creswell, this county. Deputy MARSHAL and acting coroner C. C. JACKSON, and Mr. T.J. LEWIS, of this town, went at once to the scene of the tragedy. An inquest was held over the dead body and a verdict of foul play was rendered. The body of the victim was badly bruised and a blow from the assassins club had broken its skull. Suspicion at one led to the arrest of three negroes, Sam’l SIMPSON, a brother of the unfortunate victim, Danniel SPROUT and Scott SPROUTT, age 12, 14, and 18 years. They were confined in the lockup, where, on being questioned by coroner JACKSON, they confessed their guilt. They testified; that on Saturday as they were going to their work in a field the girl followed them, they ordered her to return to the house, she did not obey, her brother struck her with a club which knocked her down, then the other two boys beat on her with sticks. They also confessed beating another girl, who barely escaped with her life. [Read the rest of the article at digitalnc.org – Roanoke Beacon, 01 November 1889, page 2, column 2]
SPRUILL, Wm. A. – On the morning of the 24th inst., Mr. Wm. A. SPRUILL, one of our oldest and most respected citizens died at his residence (half mile from here). His death was quite unexpected, as he was in town on the 16th inst. apparently in his usual good health; he was confined to his bed only a few hours before he died. We have heard of no special disease assigned as the cause of his death – old age and general debility alone being the cause. He was nearly 79 years of age. The burial ceremonies was conducted by the Rev. Luther EBORNE, at St. David’s church on Saturday evening, 25th inst., from there the remains were carried to the family burying ground (near Spruill’s bridge) followed by a large concourse of sorrowing friends. The pall bearers were Messr. B.F. HASSELL Sr., J.L. HOWELL, David ALEXANDER, A.L. CAHOON, A.G. WALKER and Wm. WILEY. [Roanoke Beacon, 31 January 1890, page 3]
T Surnames
TARKENTON, Asa – Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Baptist church in Roper for Asa TARKENTON, well-known farmer of Washington County, who succumbed from the infirmities of age Wednesday afternoon after being in failing health for four months. Burial took place in Zion’s Chapel Christian church cemetery. Rev. W.H. AMBROSE, of the Christian denomination. Mr. TARKENTON was 81 years of age and was the last of his family, leaving no brothers or sisters. His wife was the late Mrs. Ellen Ainsley BATEMAN. Surviving are the following: one sister-in-law, Mrs. W.H. TARKENTON, Roper; nieces, Mrs. C.N. REYNOLDS, Mrs. D.A. HUDSON, Mrs. W.B. MASSENGALE, all of Roanoke Rapids; Mrs. Hugh McCabe, Norfolk; Mrs. Lula BARNES, Tarboro; Mrs. Nellie Oliver, Mrs. J.C. PHELPS, Mrs. John FURLAUGH, all of Roper. Nephews: H.W. TARKENTON, Frank TARKENTON, Roper; L.D. TARKENTON, Manteo; U.W. TARKENTON, Belhaven; J.W. PHELPS, Tarboro; Clinton TARKENTON, Creswell; J.M. TARKENTON, Norfolk; H.W. TARKENTON, Elizabeth City. Active pall-bearers were relatives of the deceased. [ Obituary originally published in the April 12, 1935 issue of the Roanoke Beacon. Also published in the Fall 1993 Washington County Genealogical Society Journal.]
V Surnames
VINCENT, J.B. (Mrs.) – Our entire community was mournfully shocked on Friday last by receiving the news that Mrs. J.B. VINCENT, of Murfreesboro, the late widow of Dr. II.G. LEWIS, and who for so long added to the social circles of Plymouth, was dead. Her remains were taken to Mackey’s Ferry on Saturday and interred in the burial grounds of St. Luke’s chuch on Sunday at 10 o’clcok by Rev. Luther EBORN. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 20 December 1889, page 3]
W Surnames
WALKER, C.W. – was borned in Currituck county, NC, January 29th, 1847, and died at his home in Plymouth, N.C., August 21st, 1889, aged 42 years 6 months and 22 days. In the year 1880 he was happily married to Miss Annie LAYTON, of Bridgville, Del., who with one son still survive to mourn their loss. Brother WALKER was soundly converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal Church South, in the year 1874 and lived a devoted Christian of the same the remainder of his days. As a Christian he was earnest, meek and sweet spirited as a child, his life was as joyous in the Saviors love as his translation was triumphant and glorious. For several years he filled the office of stewart, faithfully and energetically. No man ever lived in this community who was more honored and loved as a Christian and citizen than he. He was, indeed “a living epistle known and read of all men.” As a member of the church he was true and faithful, a good neighbor, a trusted friend, a loving husband and a kind father. While he quietly lingered on the shores of time, waiting for the call of his Savior he trusted his promiser to the end for sustaining grace, which was graciously given to him. His last hours were like the beautiful setting sun, without an intervening cloud. The business of the town was almost suspended, and every possible respect was shown by the large concourse of sorrowing friends who followed his remains to their last resting-place – the Methodist Cemetery. May the benedictions of heaven rest upon the bereaved wife and may the Father’s mantle fall upon his son, and may the name left him encourage him to walk in his father’s footsteps. – C.W. ROBINSON. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 27 September 1889, page 2| View FamilySearch Family Tree profile]
WOODSON, Charlotte – DIED. At the residence of Mr. A.O. GAYLOR on Main street, Tuesday morning at 4 o’clock Mrs. Charlotte WOODSON. Her remains were interred in the M.E. Churchyard on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, Rev. C.W. ROBINSON officiating. Our heartfelt sympathies are extended to the bereaved family and friends. [Source: Roanoke Beacon, 14 February 1890, page 2]