Death of J.M.
Whitaker
The sudden death of Mr. James M. Whitaker at his home near
Andrews on February 7th was a great shock to his many friends. He
was apparently in good health—was well and stout, although he was in his 78th
year. He ate a hearty supper on Saturday evening, talked and laughed freely
with his family that night before retiring. As was his custom, he was first up
on Sunday morning and made a fire. He then lit his pipe to take his usual
morning smoke. While smoking he fell from his chair. His wife, who lay in bed
in the room, gave a scream, which brought his son to his side, and who found
that his father was dead.
Mr. Whitaker was born in Macon county on March 1, 1826; was
married to Miss Elisabeth Kimsey on May 15, 1853. In September, 1863, he
enlisted in the confederate army and was a faithful soldier. In the year 1963
in a battle near Greenville, Tenn., he was shot, the bullet remaining in his
person five years and four months, when it was extracted by his father and a
brother at his home.
Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Whitaker—seven
girls and one boy, all of whom survive him.
April 10, 1903, at their home one mile west of Andrews, they
celebrated their golden wedding. All the children were present except the son,
John, who was in the west. There were 12 grandchildren, three
great-grandchildren, and other relatives present.
The deceased was out of a family of 16 children, 10 boys and
six girls, all of whom grew to man and womanhood. Two boys and five girls are
alive now.
His only son, John, who has been west most of the time since
1880, came home on the 14th of last December to make a short visit
home, but since his father’s death will remain to look after his affairs.
Mr. Whitaker was a man held in the highest esteem by all who
knew him. In addition to his immediate family he is survived by 21
grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was laid to rest in the Baptist
cemetery Monday, the 8th. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the
bereaved family.
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