Z.V. Watson's Memoriam to Frank Bumgarner, Jan. 31, 1919

From the Jackson County Journal, Sylva, N.C., Jan. 31, 1919

In Memoriam

This community was made sad on Jan. 14^th at the alarming news of the death of Frank Bumgarner. He died from meningitis following influenza. Frank was 25 years old and had been one of the best boys I ever knew. He was truthful and honest, of kind disposition, and was greatly liked by all who knew him. His character was of the highest standard, and never had at any time been soiled. He was a consistent and devoted member of the Speedwell Baptist church, always ready and willing to do his part, and while on his death bed, subscribed $5 to the Million Dollar Fund for the religious schools of the state, which amount has been paid.

He was an untiring worker in all war activities, always standing squarely behind the soldier boys. He had taught in the public schools, where the students always admired and loved him.

Frank Bumgarner was a leader in his community for good; a leader in Sunday School and church work; was a light set upon a hill. Frank will be missed in many ways. He leaves a wife and a host of relatives and friends to mourn their loss.

“God moves in mysterious ways,

   His wonders to perform;

He plants His footsteps on the sea,

   And rides upon the storm.”

--Z.V. Watson

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From the Jackson County Journal, Sylva, N.C., Jan. 31, 1919

Frank Bumgarner

Frank Ray Bumgarner, son of John and Amanda Bumgarner, was born May 7, 1893, and departed this life January 14, 1919, leaving behind to mourn his absence with aching hearts, his parents, one brother and his devoted wife. “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord!”

Frank was one of the leading and most faithful members of Speedwell Baptist Church. Loyal, always, to his Savior, and to his country as well; he took the lead in the Sunday school and church work, and also in the war campaigns of the Government, even in his last illness contributing to causes which were presented to him. When any neighbor was in trouble, Frank was always present, anxious and glad to help. The whole community was saddened by his untimely death, and the thought that seemed to be uppermost in the minds of all was “we have suffered a great loss.” It is not so hard to preach a funeral where there is such unanimous and outspoken tribute from all. In fact, his funeral sermon had already been preached by his own life.

May our blessed Lord comfort and guide the bereaved ones through the hours of sorrow and some day bring them all safe Home together.

--John Cline