James M. Whitaker Died Suddenly, Feb. 7, 1904

From the Cherokee Scout, Murphy, N.C., published Tuesday, February 23, 1904

Death of J.M. Whitaker

The sudden death of Mr. James M. Whitaker at his home near Andrews on February 7^th was a great shock to his many friends. He was apparently in good health—was well and stout, although he was in his 78^th 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 14^th 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 8^th. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family.