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Mrs. W.R. Harris

Mrs. Harris Died Thursday
The Boswell News March 26, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Mrs. W.R. Harris, mother of Charles Harris and Judge Downing of this city, passed away Thursday night at Ringling, Oklahoma. Mrs. Harris was 80 years old at the time of her death. The Harris family had moved to Ringling at the time that town was just beginning. There were four boys and four girls in the family, the four boys surviving their mother.

Charles A. Hopkins

CHAS. A. HOPKINS, PIONEER OF CHOCTAW COUNTY DIED FRIDAY
The Boswell News March 26, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Constant devotion to his mother and sisters, unwavering friendship for his neighbors, unceasing toil for the welfare of his fellow man, these were the attributes of Choctaw county’s oldest merchant and Boswell’s oldest citizen, Charles A. Hopkins, who passed away Friday morning, March 20.
    In honor of one of its most esteemed citizens the entire business section was closed during the funeral service held Saturday afternoon at 3 o’clock from the Hopkins home, with Rev. A.J. Binkley conducting the services and the L.E. Batchelor company the funeral arrangements. The pall bearers were: W.R. Combs and Mike Sneed of Hugo, M.C. Mhoen of Durant, and Jeff Collins, J.R. Bryant and G.D. Duncan of Boswell.
    Mr. Hopkins was born in the hills of Tennessee in 1859. He moved to Boswell 29 years ago, before Boswell was known as a town. No railroad had yet penetrated this section. Life was yet in the raw, and many were the stirring tales of pioneer days he could relate. Historical events and traditions always interested Mr. Hopkins intensely and his memory for such facts was exceptionally acute.
    He was never married. His whole life and interest were centered around his immediate family, especially his mother, for whom he cared until her death. Neighbors recite the many ingenious inventions he created in order to make her burden lighter.
    Many were the tributes paid to Mr. Hopkins. "No matter how we might eulogize," said R.W. Salpes, "we could never express the man’s greatness and goodness." "He was a true Southern aristocratic gentleman," said G.D. Duncan. "He was always willing to aid someone in need," commented O.L. Watson, "a true friend in time of stress." "He was a man of great pride, but withal, of great kindenss and sympathy," said W.W. Moran. "He would go the limit for a friend, and give another man every chance to prove his friendship." "One of the truest indications of his great character, " said B.E. Pitts, "was the fondness children held for him."
    All Boswell mourns the loss of this citizen

Ione Nichols Gibson

Funeral Service For Mrs. Gibson Held Sunday
The Boswell News May 7, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Funeral services for Mrs. Ione Nichols Gibson were held Sunday afternoon from the Baptist church in Bokchito, with burial services taking place at the Boswell cemetery. Many friends gathered to pay their last respects to this well known lady.
    Mrs. Gibson, who was known while living here as Mrs. Lindsey was born Sept. 12, 1895. In 1925 she was married to J.W. Gibson and to this union a daughter, Geraldine Ione, was born.
    The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Miller of Durant. Harry Pierce, Harrison Watson, and R.L. Chambers of this city were among the pall bearers.
    Mrs. Gibson had resided in Boswell many years, teaching school part of the time. She was a member of the Baptist church and was affiliated with Eastern Star.

Mrs. Bradshaw

MRS. BRADSHAW BURIED AT SOPER TUESDAY
The Boswell News December 4, 1930 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Mrs. Bradshaw, wife of Guy Bradshaw, who formerly lived near Soper, died at the family home at El Centro, Calif., last Saturday, following an illness of several weeks. The body was brought back to Soper where burial was had in the Soper cemetery by the side of a child who died several years ago. Funeral services where held at the Soper Baptist Church, conducted by Rev. J.D. Brannon, pastor.
    Mrs. Bradshaw was born on March 19^th, 1893, at Roxton, Texas. At an early age she moved with her parents to near Old Goodland, Okla., where she was reared. She was married to Guy Bradshaw, who with two children survive. She is also survived by her father, Ben Mann of Boswell, also a brother and a sister.
    Mrs. Bradshaw joined the Baptist church in early life and always lived up to her religion. She was loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed - Soper Democrat.

Martha Jane Darnell

Mrs. Darnell Died Suddenly Monday
The Boswell News January 1, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Mrs. J.T. Darnell, aged 65 years, died at the family home in North Boswell, Monday afternoon. She was preparing the evening meal when she was struck by a heart attack and died instantly. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the home, conducted by Revs. Claud McClure and Hershel Brown, of Paris, Texas. Interment was in the Boswell cemetery.
    Mrs. Martha Jane Darnell was born in Lagan County, Kentucky, and was married 47 years ago in Blossom, Texas, to J.T. Darnell. She joined the Primative Baptist Church 35 years ago.
    Besides her husband she is survived by nine children, viz: Ed, Mal, Sam, Pete, John, Ode Darnell; Mrs. Earl Phillips and Mrs. Charlie Hopkins of Rhyne [transcriber’s note: print unclear, could be Rbyne], Okla. All were present for the funeral except Mrs. Hopkins, who was ill and unable to come. Others from out of town attending the funeral were Mr. And Mrs. Winters, and Mrs. Ferguson, of Hugo; Mr. And Mrs. O.H. Bone and Billy of Bristow, Okla., and Mrs. Haywood Morris, of Oklahoma City, and Mrs. Theo Rice, of Durant.
    Mrs. Darnell has made her home in Boswell for many years and had many warm friends who were grieved to learn of her sudden death. A good woman has gone to her reward.

N.F. Hopkins

N.F. Hopkins Killed Here Saturday
The Boswell News January 22, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    N.F. Hopkins, aged 37 years, was shot and instantly killed here Saturday afternoon about 2 o’clock on the vacant lot adjoining the Owl Drug Store. His Stepson, Floyd Pebworth, was taken to Hugo after the shooting by City Marshall Henry Jackson. The Pebworth youth is said to have confessed the shooting of his stepfather. Hopkins lived in the Pebworth community west of Boswell.
    Hopkins is said to have been sitting in his wagon, talking to another man when he was killed. The gun used was a 16 gauge shot gun, said to have been loaded with buck shot. Hopkins is said to have been shot from behind, the shot striking him in the neck and back of the head.
    Burial was in the Old Church Cemetery Sunday afternoon.
    Family trouble is said to have been the cause of the shooting. The youth, who is but 18 years of age, is said to have told officers that Hopkins had repeatedly beaten his mother, that he had threatened to kill her, and had even beaten Pebworth and his younger brother, forcing them to leave home. All this was stood as long as possible, and then the shooting took place Saturday.

Vera Roberts

FUNERAL OF MRS. VERA ROBERTS HELD HERE FRIDAY
The Boswell News January 22, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Funeral services for Mrs. Vera Roberts were held at the Boswell cemetery last Friday, January 16, by Rev. J.B. Ward.
    Mrs. Roberts was the daughter of Mr. And Mrs. John R. McGary.
    She was born April 10, 1908 and was united in marriage to Ben Roberts in 1926. She leaves two children, her husband, four brothers, a sister, mother and a host of friends to mourn her death.
    Mrs. Roberts was a member of the McKinney Baptist Church, of Dallas, Texas.

William Robert "Uncle Bob" McCafferty

"Uncle Bob" McCafferty Dies
Appeared to be in Good Health; Found Dead in Bed
The Boswell News January 1, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    W.R. McCafferty, better known to the people of Boswell and surrounding vicinity as "Uncle Bob" was found dead in his bed at his home here last Thursday morning, December 25.
    Members of the family had arose and Mrs. McCafferty had gone to his room to awaken him at about 5 o’clock when she discovered him dead. A doctor was called and made the statement that he had been dead for only a few minutes.
    Mr. McCafferty had been in poor health for a number of years, but seemed to be in good health for some time prior to his sudden death. He had worked the day before in the O.K. Meat Market, where he greeted his friends and customers in his jolly way, which made him a favorite with everyone he came in contact with.
    William Robert McCafferty was born in 1866. While he was still a boy his parents moved to Texas where Mr. Cafferty grew to manhood and was united in marriage to Miss Adeline Steen. To this union was born thirteen children, four of whom survive; two daughters, Mable and Lorene; two sons, Arlie and Wilson.
    Mr. McCafferty moved to Boswell in 1905 and has made his home here ever since with the exception of a few months spent in Waco, Texas.
    Mr. McCafferty professed a faith in Christ in 1894 - 86 years ago - and became a member of the Baptist Church of Denison, Texas. He was a faithful and active member of the church, and also a devoted father and husband. He always had a kind and encouraging word for his friends.
    Funeral services were held at the Baptist church at 3 o’clock, Friday, December 26. Rev. W.B. Ailstock, of McAlester preached the funeral. Rev. W.W. Moran read passages of scripture and commented on his life.
    The large attendance at the funeral was complementary to the high esteem and regard for him.
    Interment was made in the Boswell cemetery.

Pearl Lyons

Mrs. Jack Lyons Passes Away
The Boswell News December 18, 1930 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Mrs. Pearl Lyons, 47, was claimed by death at her home in East Boswell at 8 o’clock Sunday morning, Dec. 14.
    Mrs. Lyons was the wife of Jack Lyons. She had suffered for some time from tuberculosis. Mrs. Lyons was well known in Boswell, having lived here for many years.
    Mrs. Lyons professed faith in Christ some time ago. Funeral services were held in the Methodist Church at 3 o’clock, Sunday afternoon and were in charge of the pastor, Rev. O.L. Peck.
    Mrs. Lyons was survived by her husband, two sisters, Mrs. G. Carter, who lives in Western Okla. And Mrs. Delia Ratliff who resides in Arizona, and a niece, Mrs. Amanda Love.
    The News joins friends of the bereaved in extending sympathy.

Mrs. F.M. McClure

Mrs. F.M. McClure Dies at Oak Ridge
The Boswell News December 18, 1930 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Mrs. F.M. McClure age 26, died at her home in the Oak Ridge community, Sunday, Dec. 14. Funeral services were conducted here Monday, Dec. 15, after which interment was made in Boswell cemetery.
    Mrs. McClure was a good Christian woman, having professed faith in Christ two years ago.
    She is survived by her husband, father, mother, two brothers and one sister.

A.P. Everett

A.P. Everett Buried Sunday
The Boswell News December 11, 1930 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Funeral services were held last Sunday at the Old Church cemetery for A.P. Everett, who died last week in a Maywood, Ill., hospital.
    The funeral was under the direction of the Boswell American Legion, Elder A.J. Binkley preaching the sermon.
    Mr. Everett was well known in Boswell, having lived here until last July when he was sent to the Illinois sanatarium.
    He is survived by his wife and one small child, three brothers and two sisters.

Clifton Courtney

Clifton Courtney Buried Tuesday
The Boswell News December 4, 1930 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Clifton Courtney, aged 35 years, 7 months and 8 days, died at the Walter Reid Hospital at Washington, D.C., on Thursday, Nov. 27^th. The remains were shipped to Boswell where they were interred in the Boswell cemetery Tuesday afternoon, under the auspices of the American Legion, of which he was a member.
    Deceased was born in Raines County, Texas, April 19, 1895. His parents died when he was only 7 years old. He thereafter lived with his sister, Mrs. B.J. Guice, until May 28, 1918, when he volunteered his services to his country and soon sailed to France as a United States soldier, where he went over the top three times without a wound, except slightly gassed, after which he returned home and after a short stay he again joined the army in 1919, and served until his health failed and was carried to the Walter Reid hospital at Washington, at which place he died.
    He professed faith in Christ while he was serving in the World War, and so far as is known he was true to his profession of faith.
    He is survived by two sisters, Mrs. B.J. Guice and Mrs. Abbie Porter, who live in our community.
    Boswell people deeply sympathize with the relatives in the loss of their dear brother.

John Hunter Grise

The Boswell News June 4, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Funeral services for Mr. John Hunter Grise, who passed away suddenly Friday night, were held Saturday afternoon from the Methodist church with Brother Binkley officiating.
    Mr. Grise, son of Mr. And Mrs. F.L. Grise, was born March 11, 1887, in Logan county, Kentucky, moving to Oklahoma in 1902 with his parents. He was married in 1907 to Miss Evie Turley. To this union were born three children; Hayes, age 18, May Fern, 15, and Carolyn, 6.
    He is survived by his wife and three children, father and mother, two sisters, Mrs. J.M. Neill and Mrs. Nell Percer, and two brothers, Clay and Eben.
    Pall bearers were, J.H. Curtis, Lawrence, Robert and Rex Messengale, Bayles Irby and Henry Duncan.

Thomas Orme Self

Tragedy Strikes A.D. Self Home
The Boswell News June 4, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Hundreds of friends are mourning with Mr. And Mrs. A.D. Self the loss of their eldest child, little Thomas Orme, aged five, who died early Saturday morning at the Durant Sanitarium. Death followed an operation for tonsillis. He was born Jan. 18, 1926.
    Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon from the Presbyterian church with Rev. Dr. Ralle of Norman officiating. Interment took place in the Boswell cemetery.
    Thomas, who would have entered the first year of school this fall, is survived by his parents and two brothers and a sister, John Neely, Richard Henry, and Mary Catherine. The loss is keenly felt by those who loved the boy. Words of sympathy were sent from far and near.
    Among those who were present from out of town were: Mr. And Mrs. Irskine Orme and Dewitt Orme of San Antonia, Texas, Bud Fry, Albert Triee, Roy Wallace, E.M. DeWeese, Mr. And Mrs. C.L. Webb, Judge and Mrs. Tom Hunter of Hugo, Rev. Bert Jones of Idabell, Paul Stewart of Antlers, Alf Self and son of Honey Grove, Texas, and Claude Beard of Grant.

Fannie Balch

DEATH OF MRS. M.G. BALCH
The Soper Democrat March 20, 1924 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Mrs. Fannie Balch, wife of M.G. Galch, died at the family home 6 miles north of Soper, yesterday afternoon at 5 o’clock. Cause of death was given as tuberculosis. Funeral services were held this afternoon at the home at 2 o’clock, conducted by Rev. H.T. Breece, of Boswell, followed by interment in the Sugar Creek cemetery.
    Mrs. Balch was 42 years old and was born in Arkansas, near Umpire. She moved to this section [unreadable] years ago with her parents. In 1909 she was married to M.G. Balch. To this union six children were born viz: Ruth, Reece, John, Anice, Alice, and Naomi. Besides her husband she leaves her mother, Mrs. S.R. Lance; two sisters, Mrs. Bertha Veal and Miss Florence Lance; and four brother, S.F. Nelson, Dozier, Relous and Madison Lance.
    Mrs. Balch had been sick nearly two years. During all this time she bore her suffering without complaint, and was ready to go when the final summons came. She was a devout member of the Methodist church, joining that church about 15 years ago. She was loved by all who knew her, and she will be sadly missed by the entire community. The sorrow of husband and other relatives is shared by the many friends who have known her for many years.
    Truly a good woman has gone to her reward.

C.E. Byrns

WELL KNOWN CHOCTAW COUNTY CITIZEN DEAD
The Soper Democrat February 7, 1924 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    C.E. Byrns, 69 years old, prominent church and Sunday School worker all over southeastern Oklahoma, died at his home in Hugo at 10:40 o’clock Saturday morning.
    Mr. Byrns probably was one of the most widely known men in southeastern Oklahoma on account of his activity with Sunday school work. At the time of his death he was and had been for many years, president of the Choctaw Sunday School association. He was a nurseryman by profession and had a large number of friends in this section who regret to hear of his death.
    He was laid to rest at Hugo Sunday afternoon. Following funeral services at the Christian church.
    Mr. Byrns was well known here where he sold fruit trees for many years, and has many friends who were grieved to learn of his death.

W.C. Worsham

Death Claims W.C. Worsham
The Boswell News December 24, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    W.C. Worsham, aged 32 years, passed away at 3 o’clock Wednesday afternoon Mr. Worsham residence 4 miles south and one half mile east of Boswell.
    Mr. Worsham is survived by three children, two daughters, Valaere [spelling unsure] and Marval, and one son, Claral [spelling unsure].
    Burial was made in the Crowder Springs cemetery.

John S. Turner

John Turner Buried Here Wednesday
The Boswell News December 17, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    John S. Turner, died in a hospital at Oklahoma City, Monday Dec. 7^th, 1931, and was shipped here arriving Wednesday at noon and the body was carried to P.M. Clark’s home to await funeral arrangements, which was held at the Baptist church on Thursday afternoon, conducted by Brothers Ward and Messer, the Senner’s Funeral Home having it in charge. The body was laid to rest in the Boswell cemetery.
    Mr. Turner was born in Lafafette, Alabama, August 17^th, 1862, and moved to near Dallas, Texas, in 1895, and from there he moved to this country in 1912, locating about 6 miles north of Boswell and resided there ever since.
    Mr. Turner was never married and leaves as his near relatives one brother at Abilene, Texas and one sister at Addison, Alabama, who were unable to attend the funeral. He also leaves 1895, about 36 years [this is how the obit reads].
    The News joins the friends of Mr. Lewis and the relatives in extending to them sympathy in their loss of a dear friend and brother.

Charles Harris

Boswell Pioneer Died Friday
The Boswell News November 26, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Boswell was grieved to learn of the death of one of its early settlers last Friday at 8:30 o’clock when it was learned that C.H. Harris had passed to the great beyond.
    Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at 3 o’clock at the Boswell Baptist Church, conducted by Rev. J.B. Ward. Interment was in the Boswell Cemetery.
    Charles W. [transcribed as printed] Harris was truly one of Boswell’s pioneer citizens. He was born at Cumby, Texas, December 26, 1872. He came to this section in 1902, where he has resided ever since. In 1911 he was united in marriage to Miss Nantie King and to this union two children were born, Misses Margaret and Madge Harris, who with his wife survive him. Besides his wife and two daughters he is survived by three brothers, as follows: G.C. Harris, of Elida, New Mexico; J.M. Harris Commerce, Texas, and W.R. Harris of Oklahoma City who was the only brother who could attend the funeral.
    Mr. Harris was a lawyer as well as a merchant and has the distinction of having written the first code of laws for the town of Boswell. He unsuccessfully was a candidate for the U.S. Senate on two different occasions. However, he polled a large vote in this section where he was well known.
    The bereaved wife and daughters have the sympathy of all in their deep sorrow.

W.E. Marshall

W.E. Marshall Buried Here Tuesday
The Boswell News November 12, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    W.E. Marshall, who died Sunday at a hospital in Oklahoma City following an operation, was buried in the Boswell cemetery Tuesday afternoon at 4 o’clock. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.W. Moran, assisted by Rev. Messer.
    Mr. Marshall lived two and a half miles southwest of Boswell. He was born Nov. 16, 1860 at Marion, Ind., and at the time of his death was 70 years, 11 months and 22 days old. He was married to Miss Isabel Stephens on April 10, 1884 at Cleburne, Texas. To the union were born three boys and six girls, all of whom survive him with his companion. Five of the children were present at the funeral as follows: W.G. Marshall, Boswell; C.A. Marshall, Oklahoma City, Mrs. Clevia Caldwell, Seminole, Okla.; Mrs. B.R. Higginson, Galveston; Mrs. Abbie Hopkins, Honey Grove, Texas.
    Mr. Marshall was operated on at the hospital in Oklahoma City some time ago and was supposed to be getting along very well, when Sunday he died suddenly, supposed to be caused from heart failure. He had been a member of the Methodist church for many years and was known as a good man in the neighborhood where he lived.

H.C. Williams

H.C. Williams
The Boswell News November 12, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    H.C. Williams, aged about 70 years, died at his home 6 miles north of Boswell on Tuesday night of last week. Burial was had in the Sugar Creek cemetery north of Soper Wednesday afternoon. Mr. Williams was a native of Choctaw County.

J.T. Darnell

J.T. DARNELL PASSES AWAY THURSDAY
The Boswell News June 30, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Mr. J.T. Darnell passed on to the realms of another world, July [sic] 23^rd, at 6 p.m. at his home, after seeing 73 years of active life while in this world. He was suddenly taken by paralysis at 11 o’clock Wednesday night living but a few hours longer.
    The funeral was held at his home in Boswell, conducted by Rev. Hershel Brown of Paris, Texas. The body was laid to rest in the Boswell Cemetery under the auspices of the Sincers Brothers Lodge. Mr. Bryan, Mr. Jaques, Mr. Hunter, Mr. Irby, Mr. Powers, and Mr. Steen acted as the Pall Bearers.
    The deceased was born February 22, 1858, at Paris, Tennessee, henry County. He was united in marriage to Martha Jane May on June 12, 1884. Nine children were born into this union, seven boys, and two girls. He is survived by all his children, Edward, Mall, Sam, Marvin, Joe, John, Otis, Mrs. Earl Phillips and Mrs. C.H. Hopkins. Mrs. Darnell died January 26^th of this year.
    Mr. Darnell came to this section from Blossom, Texas, in 1902 making his home in Boswell. He was engaged in farming and was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church.

T.F. Callen

Resident Dies of Brights Disease
The Boswell News June 11, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Many friends are mourning the passing of T.F. Callen, farmer resident of this section for eleven years. Mr. Callen succumbed on June 4 to Brights disease after several weeks illness. Funeral services were held in Postoak, Texas, with Rev. J.B. Ward conducting the services. Internment took place in the cemetery of that city.
    The deceased was born Sept. 1, 1869 at Fort Smith, Arkansas. He moved to Boswell in 1920. He was never married and is survived by one sister, Mrs. E.J. Clay, of this city. Mr. Callen was a member of the Baptist church.

Mrs. James T. Pullen

Mrs. Jas. T. Pullen Died In Dallas
The Boswell News December 31, 1931 - transcribed & contributed by Ron Henson

    Our town was shocked Tuesday when it was learned that Mrs. James T. Pullen had died at a sanitarium at Dallas Monday night at 10:30 o’clock. She had undergone treatment there fro appendicitis.
    The remains were taken to Prescott, Ark., her former home for burial Wednesday.
    Mrs. Pullen was 25 years old and was the daughter of Mr. And Mrs. R.L. Loudermilk of this city. She graduated from Boswell high school in 1924, attended Oklahoma College for Women at Chickasha and taught in the Boswell school three years. She was married to James T. Pullen on September 25, 1926. To the union one child was born, James Dinner. Besides her husband and parent she leaves two sisters, Mrs. Standley Ball, of Dallas, and Mrs. William Pebworth of this section.
    Mrs. Pullen had been a member of the Methodist Church since childhood, and was loved by all who knew her. She will be sadly missed by all.