John Melton Gentry

Notes:

John's middle name is not known with certainty. Milton was recorded by the undertakers following his death. They probably misheard this however. Grace Gentry has told Lynell Gentry it was actually Melton. And as a grandson was nameed Franklin Melton Gentry, the balance of probability suggests that he was John Melton Gentry.

The Salt Lake Ancestral File gives John M. Gentry's birthdate as 1828 in Madison Co., Kentucky. However, on the 1870 Johnson Co, TX census, his computed date of birth would be 1830. On the 1900 Stephens Co, OK census, his computed date of birth would be December 1827.

John's son, William, recorded his father's birth state as Kentucky although John himself had recorded it as Tennessee ten years previously.

Significantly no parents for John are listed in the Ancestral File and a Samuel Gentry is given as "relation." Unfortunately the source of this data concerning Samuel is not immediately indicated. This ancestor entry was made on 20 Dec. 1937 by a member of the Mormon Church, probably long gone by now. The original data entry should be followed up. The Microfilm Reference is 183571 page 650. Ordinance 22555 Salt Lake.

1850-Recorded in Obion County, Tennessee Dist #2, page 705

1854 - "History of Johnson County, Texas" states that a John Gentry was elected County Commissioner. This probably was another John Gentry as census records cited below show that our John M. Gentry must have moved to Missouri sometime around this period.

1855 and 1859-- The family moved to Missouri where daughters Ellen, Sallie and Virginia were born.

1859 - John M. Gentry (31) probably migrated to Texas circa 1859, after a stay of about four years in Missouri. His son, William Miller Gentry, was therefore eight years old when they migrated to Texas. In later life he apparently had no memories of life in Tennessee, we can assume however that the boy did remember life in Missouri. They moved from Missouri to Texas shortly before the outbreak of the Civil War. The raging debates leading to the Missouri compromise, prior to the Civil War, may have hastened their departure. In the book APRIL 1865, Jay Winik notes that "On one level, (Missouri) was the very embodiment of the Civil War itself: a conflict-ridden slave state that didn't secede, a state deeply divided in loyalties, a state with an ill-formed identity. On yet another level, as it descended into full-scale guerilla war, Missouri became a very different creature altogether, less a reflection of what the Civil War was and more a mirror for what the Civil War could become. It became a killing field."

1860 - John's real estate in the Grandview Post Office area in Johnson Co., Texas, was valued at $270 in 1860 and his personal property at $525. He was a farmer and he was now employing a farm labourer from Alabama, Sam Benge (23), who lived with the family.

His father was possibly in nearby Hillsboro, Hill Co. where he was presumably developing his newly founded Baptist Church.

1861-On March 30, A Jno M. Gentry (33) was elected an officer in the Grandview Calvary, Johnson Co, Texas. He became one of six corporals in the newly formed CSA. {Johnson Co, Texas, Civil War Declaration and Muster Roll from the Commisioners Court Ledger Book "A". Muster Roll of the Grandview Cavalry, p 244}. His younger brother, Wesley (19) served as a private in the same company. Wesley was listed as #44 out of 61 privates in the same company. They were under the command of Capt. Jacob S. Morrow. {p. 245}.

The military records cited above might be for another John M. Gentry. Lynell Cordell also found the following records: "Gentry, John M--Card #50325527, Pvt, Co. A, 18th Regiment Texas Cavalry, Company Muster Roll of the organization named above, for Jan 15 to June 30, 1862. Enlisted March 1, 186- (blank) at Dallas, Texas for a period of one year. No pay received. Discharged May 29, under Conscript law [Probably too old] A.B. Mustain, Copyist

1861-"History of Johnson County, Texas" states that the Grandview Masonic Blue Lodge #266 A.F. and A.M. was chartered June 14, 1861. J.M. Gentry was listed as a charter member, along with W.G. Gentry.

1870 - Census, Johnson County, Texas ED 628

Ca. 1875-- "History of Johnson County, Texas" states that "Pupils from many places came to board in the homes of the families living in the neighborhood, and a number of new families moved here and built homes on five acre lots given for the purpose [of building Oakland College] by Philip Walker, Judge Harrison, John Gentry, Dr. L.H. Gebhard and James Houston." (p 360)

26 March 1877-Jesse W. Bell and James K. Blair relinquished and conveyed to J.M. Gentry and Jesse A. Gentry the rights, titles and interests in and to land in Grayson county. Jesse Bell and James Blair had previously purchased the land from the administrator of Christian Blair. The reason for the transfer is unknown, as is the relationship of Bell and Blair to the Gentrys. (Vol. A1 Grayson County, TX)

1878- J.M. Gentry purchased 12 acres of Timber land for $75 from J.A. Gentry in Grayson County, Texas. (Volume 44, Grayson County Bonham, TX)

1880 - Grayson County, Texas ED 7, page 145. Also living with the family was a 25 year old servant, J.C. Matthews, and John's youngest sister, Mary "Mollie" Gentry Bush. Mollie is listed as a boarder, and living with her three small sons, Willie, Harry, and Marcus Roy.

John's son William Miller Gentry is now living in Wise Co. with his wife and young family. Zada Trawick's family was also in Wise Co. in 1880. It is possible that John M. and Pamelia could have moved there after the 1880 census, and also that Preacher William, possibly in need of care, could have been there around that time also.

1885- Land record, Vol 5, Page 176, Wise Co., Texas J.M. and P.C. Gentry sold about 46 1/2 acres to J.C. McCraken.

1887-Land record Vol 11, page 434, Wise Co., Texas J.M. and P.C. Gentry sold (?) 130 acres to Burges. Says something about part of blk 11, league #2. Hunt School Land.

1890-Land record, Vol 19, page 310, Wise Co., Texas Sold 130 acres in Block 11, League #2, School land, to Jerry Williamson (son-in-law?)

1895- Land record Vol 31, page 284, Wise Co, Texas. Something else about the 130 acres sold to Burges Block 11, League #2, Hunt School land.

1900-He and Pamelia were living with his son and daughter in law, William M. and Mollie Gentry.

1901-A J.M. Gentry purchased "land situated in Fannin County, Texas on the waters of Brushy Creek being part of a Survey originally granted unto Wm Martin" from W.A. and Rosa B. Ayres for $400 cash and a $100 note. (Book 17, Page 488-489 Fannin Co, TX). It is not known if this is the same person a John Melton Gentry, who was residing in Oklahoma at that time.

Lewis Adair Payne has a copy (currently mislaid) of a four generation group photograph of John Milton Gentry and Pamelia Harpole taken around 1902. They, the grandparents in the picture, apparently died shortly afterwards. The original image, which is unfortunately not a very good piece of portraiture being taken from a distance, is probably the property of Dorothy Thompson. This important photograph apparently shows John (75), with a large beard and sitting. The rest of the seven people portrayed are apparently standing; Pamelia (75), William Miller Gentry (50) and his wife Mary Evelyn Mounts (46) with two of their children Permelia Gertrude (25) and Pearl (6). Gertie's husband Walter W. Payne and their first born child Carl (4). The picture was taken in front of William and Martha's house and a neighbour woman can additionally be seen nearby. This picture, when compared to Lynell's damaged double portrait of John and Pamela (Harpole) Gentry, seems to be of the same people. Anna Laura Payne confirmed the identity of the John and Pamela, remembering the portrait from her childhood. Charles Strong remembers the portrait, before damage, hanging in the home of James Edwin Gentry and Zada Trawick.

1900 - Both John Milton and Pamelia C. Gentry were living with their son William M. Gentry in Stephens Co., Oklahoma in 1900.

1902-John M. Gentry becomes the 11th Masonic Worshipful Master, Lodge No. 54, in Velma, Oklahoma.

1904 - (Tombstone Inscription, surmounted by Masonic Insignia) JOHN M./GENTRY/ BORN/ DEC. 19. 1827/ DIED/MAR. 3. 1904/AGED/ 76Yrs. 2 Mos./ &15Das.

John married Pamelia C Harpole about 1850 in Tennessee. Pamelia (daughter of John Harpole and Mary Ann McMinamy) was born on 20 Mar 1827 in Obion County, Tennessee; died on 19 Jul 1903 in Alma, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory; was buried in Alma Cemetery, Alma, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The following biography was written by Kenneth Charles Harvey.

The eldest child in his family, he was known as Will to his wife and Billie to his siblings. He was about eight years old when he was taken to Texas from Missouri, he remembered nothing of Tenessee. His eldest daughter, Grace, recalls his middle name instead as Melton. This is almost certainly incorrect.

He was never involved in the Civil War, according to Lewis Adair Payne.

He helped dismantle the frontier fort at Fort Worth, Texas by assisting in removing the pallisade. Presumably he was still living with his parents in Johnson Co. at this time. The date of this event needs to be established.

1870 - A Wm. M. Gentry married Lucy E. Smith on 25 Apr. 1870 in Collin Co. Texas. There is no family recollection of any such previous marital event but it is highly likely that Will's first wife died. Molly may have known of this but simply never mentioned in later life that she was in fact Will's second wife. She may have preferred to keep this information to herself.

Will, who was a physically very strong man, initially used his father-in-law's wedding present, of a team of horses and wagon, to haul whisky etc. as far west as the saloons in Pecos. It was possible to make more money with transporting whisky than hauling anything else. This was a dangerous activity at the time as the Commanche Indians were still hostile, and active, in the surrounding area. He himself evidently spoke a little Indian (probably Choctaw).

He was a talented carpenter although his work never really met his wife, Molly's, exacting standards. She didn't forget easily that her own father had been a cabinet maker level of carpenter.

1880 - The family were living in Wise Co., Texas, where Will (29) was farming. Mollie (23) was keeping house and looking after the children Carrie (5), Gertie (2) and baby Frank. The enumeration locality was 130 (possibly near Decatur). (Microfilm page 225).

Will's paternal grandfather was a Baptist preacher who started a church, probably in Hillsboro, Hill Co., Texas. The old man appears to have moved from there to Wise Co. at some point either prior to or after 1873. He must have been nearby to his grandson, Will Gentry, around this time as he used to borrow Will's horse team and wagon without asking. Presumably this occurred when young William was not around. He would just hitch the horses up and take them off without a word. This used to greatly annoy his granddaugher-in-law, Molly. It was, after all, her father who had given the team to the couple as a wedding present. The preacher would have been in his late seventies by then. The Trawick family was also in Wise County as of the 1880 census. They lived in Wise County until around 1887.

1887-They then moved north to Indian Territory. This relocation out of Texas was to what was later to become the state of Oklahoma. Will now purchased a 320 acre farm east of Duncan on Wild Horse Creek, Stephens Co. People were moving into this Territory as pioneers because the land was much cheaper. He also had a financial interest in a cotton gin while in Oklahoma. The house that he built there consisted of two stories. There were two rooms and an entrance hall on the ground floor with a stairs, aligned east/west, leading up to a small landing at the front with two bedrooms at either side. There was an additional single story dining room accessed from the downstairs hall with the kitchen at the end of this extension. The front of the house faced east and there was a well outside the kitchen door on the south side of the building.

1903-Will was photographed in a family group picture at his parent's home in Alma. Mollie was not in the picture. His parents were living in a small, one story wooden house.

1910 - Will was listed as living in Park Township, in 1910, with his wife Molly and the youngest two of their children. Also living with them was 4 year old Louisa Payne, presumed to be the youngest daughter of Permelia Gertrude Gentry and Walter Payne. Permelia died shortly after Louisa was born. He was living on 320 acres which must have consisted of, in half, the 160 acres which was later legally described as "The East Half of the West Half of Section Four (4), Township One (1) South, Range Five (5) West, I(ndian) M(eridian)." [Payne, Grace Ellen (1948) Affidavit giving legal notice of intention to file suit in District Court of Stephens County, Oklahoma. Ref: Book 414, page 344] Will had probably owned the whole western half, of section four as described.

1911 - Described as "of Arthur" on his son John's marriage in 1911 in Stephens Co., Oklahoma.

1920-Census record has not been found.

Will left his farm and house, having basically retired in about 1920, the elderly couple now moved to what was to become 721 Spruce Street, Duncan. Will had bought a block of land there, number sixty-seven, close to the city. He proceeded to break the block up into building lots which he then began to sell off as sites for homes. He built their own new house on one of these lots. His grandson Carl Payne and Tommy Payne purchased two other lots and built homes on them. Molly was never happy in the house as she felt it was not finished properly and the side was too close to the street. People could look in and see her eating as they walked along. The house was still standing in 1997.

Frank now took over the farm and the house on Wild Horse Creek his father had left there. Frank, in turn, rented part of the 320 acres to his brother Emory. Emory was considered the best farmer in the family. Sadly, the house Will had built was burnt down much later.

1923-Celebration of their fiftieth wedding anniversary. This large family reunion started off at their own home in Spruce street and then moved the same day to son-in-law, Walter Winchell Payne's, ranch where there was presumably more space.

1929 -William M. Gentry died.

W. M. Gentry's gold watch was given, on his death, to grandson, Lewis Adair Payne. Sometime later the watch was "borrowed" by Lewis' elder brother, "Snort." At the time they all thought that the valuable heirloom was lost down the well. Later on there was a reconsideration. A neighbouring boy who had suggested that it had fallen down the well and who was playing with the children at the time probably stole it. Apparently he was known for his light fingers.

Lyn Cordell found both of the following, items:

First, a story by Sudie Thornton Sharp, born in 1877 in Texas. Her family moved to Indian Territory when her father "purchased the improvements on some Indian land, which comprised several hundred acres, near where the Arthur post office and store were located---about 10 miles northeast of Duncan." (Lyn noted that actually, Arthur is more straight east of Duncan. The Indian Base Line that my grandparent's lived on is Beech Street here in town. We live about 1/2 mile north of Beech now). Anyway, Mrs. Sharp continues to say, "After a short visit with my parents at Arthur I came to Duncan and soon had a music class, being Duncan's first music teacher. I went from house to house, giving lessons on organs and pianos. My first boarding home was with William Gentry and family. The Gentrys were the parents of Mrs. Marvin Payne and Ed Gentry." After she married Mr. Sharp they started a store in 1901 about 14 miles northwest of Duncan. In 1902 their store got a post office and it was named Nellie.

She also found the obituary of William Gentry, published in THE DUNCAN WEEKLY EAGLE, dated Thursday, Sept. 26, 1929:

County Pioneer Called By Death
W.M. Gentry, One of Oldest Citizens of County, Died Monday After Months of Suffering.

W.M. Gentry, a resident of this section for more than 39 years, died at the family home in Duncan at 9:40 o'clock Monday morning, following a lingering illness of several months duration. Mr. Gentry, who was 79 years old at the time of his death, moved to what is now Stephens county in 1890 and settled in the Arthur neighborhood, east of Duncan. He moved to Duncan some eight years ago. During his residence in the county Mr. Gentry saw the country develop from a wilderness to a great agricultural section, and played no small part in this development, for he was among the county's foremost citizens.

Funeral services were held at 3 o'clock Tuesday afternoon from the First Baptist church, conducted by Rev. J. J. Ward, a pioneer minister of this county, and the pastor, Rev. T. P. Haskins. Interment was in the Duncan cemetery, the arrangements being in charge of the Beeson Grantham Funeral Home.

Mr. Gentry was a native of Tenn., and moved in Indian Territory from the land of his nativity. Surviving him are his widow, five children and 27 grandchildren. The children are: Ed J. Gentry, Ft. Worth; John W. Gentry, Alpine, Tex.; Mrs. Marvin Payne, Duncan; E. H. Gentry, Oklahoma City; and Mrs. S. P. Hall, Roxanna, Tex. Two sisters, Mrs. Lum Parsons of Oklahoma City and Mrs. Jerry Williamson of Decatur, Tex., and two brothers, J. P. Gentry of Oklahoma City and J.E. Gentry of Arthur, also attended the funeral.

(Research):"Family Record-Parents' Names-Husband William Miller Gentry Born May 23rd 1851 Tenn. Wife Mary Evelyne Gentry Born Aug 27th 1856 W. Va. Married July 13 1873 at Grayson Co. Texas, lived in Texas 1873 to 189- Moved to Ind Ter." [Gentry, Ruth Pearl (1930) Family Genealogical Record Form (probably largely compiled by Ruth circa 1911-1930)-photocopy of the double spread torn pages in possession of Penny Ethlen Payne. Original with Scott Philip Hall?]

1900 census Chickasaw Nation IT (Stephens Co. OK) ED 166 pg. 40A
169/176
Gentry, William M., May 1852, 48, married 26, TN KY TN
Mollie E., Aug. 1856, 43, 8 children/7 living, VA VA VA
Frank M., son, May 1880, 20, TX
Edgar J., son, Dec. 1882, 17, TX
John W., son, Aug. 1885, 14, TX
Grace E., dau., Nov. 1888, 11, TX
Emory H., son, May 1893, 7, IT
Ruth P., dau., Dec. 1896, 3, IT
John M., father, Dec. 1827, Married 50, KY KY KY Pamelia C., mother, Mar. 1827, 7 children/5 living, TN TN VA

William married Mary "Molly" Evelyn Mounts on 12 Jul 1872 in Grayson County, Texas. Mary (daughter of William J. Mounts and Salinda Galloway) was born on 27 Aug 1857 in West Virginia; died on 10 Sep 1940 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

On 1860 census but not 1870.

Lynell Gentry emailed, in April 2006, that Sallie was listed in "History of Johnson Co. TX" as one of the first students to attend the Oakland College, which was chartered Nov. 2, 1866. Unfortunately, Sallie became the first person buried in the new Oakland Cemetery next to the school. People who later canvassed the cemetery for the genealogical society were unable to read Sallie's death date but it was later posted as: GENTRY, Miss Sallie A. 29 Jul 1856 14 Sep 1876.

(Miltenberger's Report copied 1969)

A photo of this headstone is posted. The year of death is extremely difficult to verify, but it appears more likely to be either 1860, making Sallie only four at the time of her death. This would account for her absence at the time of the 1870 census, and would also mean that she was not the same Sallie Gentry who was a student at Oakland College. It could also be 1880, putting her age of death at 24.

Notes:

Known as Ginny. Later in life she had a large goiter or growth on her neck.

She believed that she was born in Missouri.

She recorded that she had six children, five of whom were still alive in 1910. As she only recorded five children in 1900, the sixth, who died, must have been born circa. 1895 when she would have been 36 years of age.

Virginia married Columbus "Lum" Parsons in 1878. Columbus was born on 3 Mar 1854 in Missouri; died on 16 Jun 1943 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

1862-His funeral record states place of birth as Hill Co., Texas, but he could actually have been born in Johnson Co. Maybe the information is correct and the family moved to Johnson Co. shortly after the birth.

1886-Was this marriage in Woodville, Tyler Co., as there is no Woodvine in Texas? Could Woodvine have been a town that disappeared? Maybe the son who supplied the information simply didn't know the name of the town.

1887, 12 Nov. - "Mr Price Gentry's little child died last week."

The Weekly Duncan Banner
July 28, 1905
"J.P. Gentry and family left for Loco yesterday to attend the 5th Sunday meeting, after which they will visit relatives and friends in Wyse county, Texas for a week or two." (Courtesy Lynell Cordell)

Stephens County Historical Society Interviews with Pioneers
Pioneer Memories

The R. B. Frensley Family History

Added Memories of the Frensley Family by Bob Frensley - (excerpt)

"One day in May 1908 there were eight tornadoes around Duncan in one afternoon. The first one hit out west of town around Oil City. Most of the others we could just see out on the prairie, but one did clip the edge of Duncan. It came through the south edge of town and tore up some stuff down at the oil mill on 7th and Bois d'arc. You could have done most anything in downtown Duncan that afternoon and nobody would have known it. Everyone was down in storm cellars. Fuqua Park used to be a big cotton patch. It belonged to a man named Price Gentry. Us kids used to take our sacks and go over there after school every afternoon to pick cotton. Some used regular cotton bags and others used tow or burlap sacks. There were kids of all ages and sizes. Worst mistake Mr. Gentry ever made was planting citron or pie melons along the rows one year. From then on, we kept the old man busy searching the sacks when he weighed them in. He'd have to hunt through each sack to be sure us kids didn't have a melon in there to be weighed."


Funeral home record from Duncan, Stephens Co. OK (Courtesy Lynell Cordell)

John Price Gentry died April 14, 1946 at Wichita Falls Clinic at Wichita Falls, Texas. Had been in ill health for a number of years, however, death was unexpected. Born March 29, 1862 at Hill County, Texas, son of John Milton and Pamelia Harpole Gentry. Was carpenter by trade. Married 1886 in Woodvine, Texas to Emma Green, now deceased. Was a member of Baptist Church and Odd Fellows Lodge. Surviving children; L.O. Gentry of Wichita Falls, Texas; Gerald H. Gentry of Okla. City, Oklahoma; Mrs. C.S. Kerr, Chula Vista, Calif. 1 brother, J.E. Gentry of Duncan Community.
Funeral will be at 2:30 Tuesday April 16 at Emanuel Baptist Church. Rev. J.C. Dodson officiating. Internment in Duncan Cemetery

Duncan Cemetery, Duncan, OK
(computerized cemetery records show name as John Pierce)
Section 3, Block 21, Lot 12, Spaces 5 & 6:
John Price Gentry 84 b. ? TX d. 14 APR 1946 Wichita Fall, TX. Died of Leukemia.
Mrs. Emma G. [Green] Gentry 71 b. ? TX d. 8 NOV 1939 Duncan, OK
Parent of Emma was James Green.
The South 1/2 of Lot 12 is owned by J. P. Gentry.

(Research):Census Information:
(Courtesy Lynell Cordell)

1910 census Comanche Co. OK
Cache Twp., ED 38 Pg. 10B
142/144
Gentry, John P. 48, Married for 24 yrs., TX KY TN
Emma, 41, M 1, 24, 8 children/3 children living, TX TN TX
Witherspoon, Mable E., dau., 18, M 1, 2 yrs. 1/1 children
, OK TX TX
Gentry, Luther J., son 16 OK TX TX
Gentry, Gerald J. son, 1, OK TX TX
Witherspoon, Ruth H., g-dau., 4/12, OK MO OK

1920 census Stephens Co. OK
ED 248 Pg. 1A
7/
Gentry, J.P., 58, cotton buyer, TX TN TN
Emma, 51, TX US US
Gerald, son, 12 OK TX TX
Kerff (?), L.G., son-in-law, 27, NY NY NY (can't read last name)
Mable, daughter, 26, OK TX TX
Louis W., grandson, 2 6/12, OK NY OK
Witherspoon, Hazel, granddaughter, 10, AZ AZ OK

1930 census
Oklahoma County, OK ED 55-62 Pg. 162A
Oklahoma City
North Central - House # 1223
202/290
Smith, Samuel T., head, MW, 53, M, age when first married 37, KY KY KY
Maude E., wife, FW, 45, M, age when first married 29, TX MS TX
Gentry, John P., lodger, MW, 68, M, age when first married 24, TX KY TN
Emma, lodger, FW, 61, M, age when first married 17, TX TN TN
Austin, Willard, lodger, MW, 24, S, MO IL MO

John married Emma Green on 29 Nov 1886 in Woodbine, Cooke County, Texas. Emma was born between 1868 and 1869 in Texas; died on 9 Nov 1939 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Her children were listed by Ruth Pearl Gentry and given to Lewis Adair Payne in about 1969.

One of Lou's boys may have had a middle name "Gerald" that he was known by and referred to as. This could have been Doyle Williamson i.e. he would have been Doyle Gerald Williamson.

Lewis Adair Payne remembers a Gerald Williamson saying to him "Take a fool's advise and never join the cavalry." He also vividly remembers him recounting to him that while he was in the cavalry he used to attempt to cut pillows in half with the sabre and the secret was to draw the highly sharpened blade across the falling pillow as it was being slashed. Apparently they used to hold competitions about this.

Lou married Jeremiah M. "Jerry" Williamson on 2 Nov 1884 in Wise County, Texas. Jeremiah was born on 3 Apr 1858 in Cooper County, Missouri; died on 8 Aug 1960 in Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas; was buried in Cottonwood Cemetery, Wise County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Lynell Gentry notes that her father, the youngest son of James and Zada Gentry, "talked about living in Wise Co. Texas, when he was a youngster. That was probably between Dera's birth in 1899 and Elmer's in 1901. Bessie told Anna Laura that they came across the Red River to Oklahoma on New Year's Day 1900 and lived in Grady Co. before settling in Stephens Co. Although on the 1900 census they are at Township 2SR3W, the same as Zada's mother and unmarried siblings. That location is around Alma, Oklahoma, where my Dad [Delbert] said he was born in 1893. Zada's father died there in 1899 and is buried near John M. and Pamelia Gentry in the Alma Cemetery."

Ken Harvey notes that in 1900 "We find four young unidentified Gentrys '[second] cousins [of Ed & Zada's children?]' living with Ed and Zada during the census of Indian Territory in 1900 and as a result they had to be enumerated there. They were presumably not on vacation as they were very young-perhaps their parents were starting to homestead in Indian Territory and were building their house having been there a few years. These youngsters were presumably the grandchildren of either James, Michael, Wesley or Abram-the sons of Preacher William Gentry.

We only know for certain that Wesley and Abram emigrated to Texas with the family. They could easily have been Wesley or Abram's grandchildren. They are Mollie, Stephen, Cubie and Addie. Assuming they are all siblings their unknown Gentry father was born in Texas and their mother was born in Kansas. In addition there was an unidentified fourteen year old nephew, Mayfield Ladd b. Mar. 1886 TX, who was presumably on a working vacation."

There were some Todd's in the area in 1900 but no Ladd's were found so it is not certain which name is correct.

In 1919 the couple bought about 160 acres of Stephens Co. land from Ed's nephew Franklin Melton Gentry and his wife. This was on Nov. 22nd. and the lands legal description was Sec. 4 1S 5W. (Book 103, Page 139, Stephens County Courthouse).

They sold this land to Bill Kirk in 1946 and moved to 2nd Street in Duncan.

J.E. Gentry's obituary, from THE DUNCAN EAGLE dated 19 January 1950 reads as follows:

"60 Year Resident of County, J.E. Gentry, Dies After Long Illness" Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon for James E. Gentry, 80, 704 North 2nd, who died in a local hospital Monday night after a long illness. Gentry had been a resident of this county for the past 60 years, having moved to Alma in 1889. He was born in Wise County, Texas [Lynell thinks this is an error*] in March, 1869. G. W. McCollum, Minister, conducted the rites as the West Main Church of Christ with Rev. Roy V. Harp of the First Christian Church assisting. Burial was in the Duncan Cemetery under the direction of Rangley-Holden Funeral Home.

Bearers were Bruce Ridley, V. K. McMasters, Jake Kirby, Gaylord Clark, M.E. Hitt and Bill Groppenbacher. Survivors include the widow Zada, five sons, A.L. of Duncan, Delbert of Duncan Route 3, Elmer and Jess of Duncan and Lloyd of Oklahoma City, three daughters, Ruth Gentry of the home address, Mrs. Bessie Payne of Oklahoma City, and Mrs. Dera Goodwin of Bell, California.

*Lynell noted that the 1860 and 1870 census records were in Johnson County, Texas, and she believes he was born there.

Ken Harvey further noted that he was known as Ed. He was a slow moving person.

(Research):Census Listings:

1900 census
Chickasaw Nation IT (Stephens Co. OK) ED 167 pg. 15 240/244
Jentry, J.E., Mar. 1869, 31, married 9, TX KY TN Farmer
Zadie, wife, Jan. 1875, 25, 6 children/6 living, KS TN KS
Arthur, son, Jun 1893, 7, IT
Delbert, son, Mar. 1894, 6, IT
Bessie, dau., Apr. 1896, 4, IT
Jesse, son, Apr. 1897, 3, IT
Deria, dau., Apr. 1899, 1, IT
Jentry, Mollie, cus., May 1896, 4, IT TX KS
Stephen, cus., Feb. 1897, 3, IT TX KS Cubie, cus, female, M
ar. 1897, 3, TX TX KS
Addie, cus., Feb. 1898, 2, IT, TX KS
Ladd?/Todd?, Mayfield, neph., Mar. 1886, 14, TX TN KS

1910 census
Grady Co. OK, Amber twn.,
ED 90 pg. 11 B
137/138
Jentry, James E., 41, married 20, TX KY KY
Elzada, 39, 7 children/7 living, KS TN TN
Arthur, son, 17, OK Delbert, son, 16, OK Bessie, dau., 14, OK Jesse, son, 13, OK
Dera, dau., 11, OK Elmer, son, 8, OK
Loyd, son, 1, OK

1920 census,
Stephens Co. OK, Parks twp.,
ED 250 pg. 14B.
Gentry, James E., 50, TX TN TN
Zada, 49, KS TN TN
Delbert, son, 25, OK
Dera, dau. 20, OK
Elmer, son, 18, OK
Lloyd R., son, 9, OK
Ruth, dau., 7, OK

1930 census
Stephens Co. OK Parks Twp.,
ED 69-21 Sheet 3A
34/38
Gentry, James E., MW 61 M 21 TX TN TN
Zada, wife FW 59 M 19 KS MS MS
Jess N., son MW 33 S OK TX KS
Lloyd, son MW 21 S OK TX KS
Ruth, dau. FW 17 S OK TX KS

James married Elzada Trawick about 1891. Elzada (daughter of James Jackson Trawick and Elizabeth Lucinda Adams) was born on 6 Jan 1871 in Coffeyville, Montgomery County, Kansas; died on 23 Jan 1951 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Her name may have been Cary Lee Gentry.

1887, 31st. Dec. - "The following is the report of Cottonwood School, No. 44, for the month ending Dec. 23, 1887 .... .... Roll of honor; ... ... Carrie Gentry ... .... " Could this have been her, she would have been twelve years old at the time?

Died in childbirth.

Carrie married Thomas Condren on 13 Feb 1896 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Thomas was born in Mar 1873 in Arkansas; died in 1909. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Gertie, as she was known, died following the birth of her sixth or seventh child. The baby girl, Louise, who survived, was not expected to live.

Marlow Review
Friday, Sept. 14, 1906
Mrs. Gertie Payne: Wife of Walter Payne of Arthur, I. T. died Tuesday morning and was laid to rest in the city cemetery Wednesday. Rev. Burgess conducted religious services. She leaves a husband and several small children. Mr. Payne is a brother of Mr. W. H. Payne of this place. The funeral was largely attended by friends and relatives from Arthur and Duncan. To all the sorrowing ones we extend our sympathy.

(Courtesy of Lynell Gentry Cordell)

Permelia married Walter Winkle Payne about 1894 in Stephens County, Indian Territory. Walter (son of Thomas Hamilton Payne and Martha Jane Marshall) was born in Mar 1867 in Shelby County, Missouri; died on 26 Mar 1929 in Marlow, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried on 29 Mar 1929 in Marlow Cemetery, Marlow, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He is listed as living with Ada his wife and their two children in Parks township, Stephens Co., in 1910. Ref: DWL 88/Family 88

He later inherited from his father and he farmed the family land east of Duncan.

World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Name: Frank Melton Gentry
City: Arthur
County: Stephens
State: Oklahoma
Birth Date: 24 May 1880
Race: White
Roll: 1852128
DraftBoard: 0
Age: 38
Occupation: Farming
Nearest Relative: Ada Gentry, Arthur, Stephens Co. OK
Height/Build: Medium/Slender
Color of Eyes/Hair: Blue/Black

Duncan Eagle, June 14, 1928, Page 7 Frank Gentry Laid to Rest County Resident for 38 Years Passed Away at Age of 48. Services Wednesday. Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon for Frank M. Gentry, who had passed away at 6 o'clock Monday evening, a victim of pneumonia. Arrangements were made by the Beeson Grantham Funeral Home, and services were held in the First Baptist Church, with Rev. Elmer Ridgeway officiating. Burial was in the Duncan Cemetery. Born in Texas on May 24, 1880, Mr. Gentry came to this section at an early age, and had resided in Stephens County for 38 years. His home was 12 1/2 miles east of Duncan. His long residence here had made him widely and favorably known throughout this section. Surviving are the widow; three sons, Rene, John and Freeland; and two daughters, Frankie and June. The parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Gentry, live at 721 Spruce Avenue. There are also two sisters and three brothers.

Ken Harvey related a story about Frank and his wife decided to replace all their living room furniture so he headed to town with a bale of cotton to sell. The old furniture was meanwhile presented to the neighbours. Unfortunately instead bought an Edison record player with records and put it in his wagon and took it home.

The family heard him singing as he arrived home late at night and Ada was none too pleased to discover what their money had been spent on. They now had a bare room with a phonograph. This was the old ground floor bedroom on the south side of the house.

His son Glen really enjoyed the new machine as he was a fun loving young man and liked to dance to the music played on the Edison. One of the records was "The Irish Washer Woman" and Glen was able to do a jig to that!

Franklin married Ada Carol Jones on 17 Sep 1905 in Arthur, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory. Ada was born in 1880 in Texas; died on 23 Apr 1929; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Name: Edgar Jeffery Gentry
City: Cruce
County: Stephens
State: Oklahoma
Birth Date: 26 Dec 1882
Race: White
Roll: 1852128
DraftBoard: 0
Age: 35
Occupation: Farming for self
Nearest Relative: Frances Gentry, Curce, OK
Height/Build: Medium/Medium
Color of Eyes/Hair: Brown/brown

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

5 Jan 1967 THE DUNCAN EAGLE

Edgar J. Gentry, Cattleman and Ex-Teacher, Dies Edgar J. (Ed) Gentry, 802 Sycamore, cattleman and farmer in Stephens County for nearly half a century, died at his home at 2 a.m. today. Gentry, 84, had been in poor health for several months. He was born at Decatur, Tex., Dec. 26, 1882 and moved to this county as a child. Gentry was a graduate of Valparaiso University at Valparaiso, Ind. He taught school at Alma as a young man. He retired a few years ago from active farming and ranching. Survivors are his wife, Frances, whom he married at Arthur in eastern Stephens County, Sept. 26, 1909; a son, W. T. Gentry, 1116 Elm; a daughter, Mrs. J. T. Callahan, 1327 Normandy Rd.; two brothers, John Gentry of Alpine, Tex., and Emory Gentry of Oklahoma City; a sister, Mrs. S. P. Hall of Pampa, Tex., and a grandson. Funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Grantham Funeral Home chapel. The Rev. T. Hollis Epton, pastor of the First Baptist church here of which Gentry was a member, will officiate. Burial will be in the Duncan Cemetery. Bearers will be Murl Kincannon, Pat Peck, Riley Coates, Earl Lee, Roy Steigleder and Lester Allen. Honorary bearers will be L.L. Humphreys, L. L. Gatlin, Nat Gatlin, Earl Russell, Clarence Callaway, Dr. E. C. Lindley, J. F. Lewis, the Rev. W. Lowder, Roy Patton, A.S. Moore, and members of the Men's Brotherhood Class of the First Baptist Church.

Listed as living alone with Frances in the Duncan area (King township), Stephens Co., in 1910. Ref: DWL 112/Family 117

(Research):Census Information:

1930 census Stephens Co. OK East 1/2 of King Twp., ED 69-1
0 Sheet 3B 46/51 Gentry, Edgar J., MW 49 M 29 TX MS IL
Frances, wife FW 38 M 18 OK TX TX
William T., son MW 19 S OK TX OK
Mary T., dau. FW 18 S OK TX OK
John V., nephew MW 15 OK TX OK

Edgar married Sarah Frances "Fannie" Kincannon on 26 Sep 1909 in Arthur, Parks Township, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Sarah (daughter of Jessie Thomas Kincannon and Sidney Georgina Hart) was born on 26 Nov 1887 in Oklahoma; died in Feb 1976 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ken Harvey writes that "As a boy he always carried some string in his pocket. He had ever afterwards taken very seriously the jocular semi-critical comment, 'every boy carries a piece of string in his pocket' made by some dissapointed adult who had urgently wanted a piece for some reason. He studied in Vincinnes, Indiana and spoke Spanish. Ken also heard that when his first wife was sick, he chartered a train to take her to Oklahoma City. This doesn't seem likely from her death certificate though. They were still living in Dougherty at the time, and she died in Ardmore, Oklahoma of appendicitis that evidenced itself four days prior to her death.

WWI Draft Registration - 1918
Name: John William Gentry
City: Alpine
County: Brewster
State: Texas
Birth Date: 9 Aug 1885
Race: White
Roll: 1927370
DraftBoard: 0
Occupation: Pharmacist
Employer: Walter Garnett, Alpine, Brewster Co. TX
Nearest relative: Mrs. Julia Ann Gentry (wife)
Height/Build: Medium/Slender
Color of Eyes/Hair: Lt. ?/ Lt. Brown

John lived in Brewster County, Texas from about 1918 until his death.


SSDI JOHN GENTRY 09 Aug 1885 Oct 1972 79830 (Alpine, Brewster, TX) (none specified) 449-09-8198 Texas

TX Death Record Gentry John W SR 10-20-1972 BREWSTER M SINGLE


Brewster Co. Cemetery book, Elm Grove Cemetery, Alpine, TX. Lot #1, Block 6-A John William Gentry August 9, 1885 October 6, 1972 Julia Zumwalt Gentry March 14, 1892 March 13, 1981 Peggy Kirby Gentry November 3, 1933 March 17, 1973 Julia Gentry Chessman May 18, 1918 July 27, 1949 Mark Sale Chessman , Infant Son, July 15 - 17, 1949

(Courtesy of Lucy Anderson Lowrie)

(Research):
Census Information:

1910 census
Grady Co. OK ED 97 Pg. 157B
Chickasha city
127/150
Temple, James A., head, MW, 59, M 34yrs., Alderman-city, MO MO KY
Carrie J., wife, FW, 52, M 34yrs., 5/4 children, IN IN IN
James W., son, MW, 25, Book keeper-Lumber yard, CO MO IN
Gentry, John W., roomer, MW, 24, S, Prescription clerk-Drug store, OK unk unk

1920 census
Brewster Co. TX
Prect. 1 Alpine Twn.
218/223
Gentry, John Head Own M W 34 M TX TN VA pharmacist - drug store
Gentry, Julia Wife F W 27 M TX TX TX
Gentry, Julia dau F W 1 S TX TX TX

John married Rena W. Bunch on 15 Jun 1911 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Rena was born on 5 Feb 1890 in Texas; died on 17 Dec 1911 in Ardmore, Carter County, Oklahoma; was buried in Fairlawn Cemetery, Comanche, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Julia Zumwalt between 1912 and 1917. Julia (daughter of Robert Dowling Zumwalt and Amanda Ann Floyd) was born on 14 Mar 1892 in Hallettsville, Lavaca County, Texas; died on 13 Mar 1981 in Alpine, Brewster County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Possibly lived in Paris, Lamar Co., Texas at some point. This town was sometimes referred to by Grace Ellen Gentry.

Died at 2010 Admiral Road, Stillwater, OK.

She had a strong dislike of all things Texan.

Photograph at 140 lbs (usually 125lbs) Norvelle Studio, Chickasha, Oklahoma, circa 1923. She disliked the picture as a result.

1927-She was instrumental in organizing the Payne/Gentry family reunion in 1927. The event took place at the home of Annie O'Neill's home in Duncan.

1934-On the sixth of April 1934, Mary E. Gentry, widow, sells to Grace Payne (her daughter) for one dollar and love and affection the west half of lot six (6) in block sixty-seven (67) together with all improvements thereon, in the City of Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Grace and Marvin had just lost their farm being unable to pay the mortgage. Molly continued to live for another six years but this house on 8th and Spruce Street was also lost for the same reasons. Molly continued to live with her daughter and her family until she died.

1948-Grace Payne (nee Gentry) notified "To Whom it May Concern" on the 21st of June that she, E.J. Gentry, J.W. Gentry, Pearl Hall, E.H. Gentry, Carl H. Payne, J.E. Payne, Vera Young, Virginia Hardin, Louise Birnie, Mary Ethel Jones and Jeanne Turner, all heirs of W.M. Gentry, claimed to own the mineral rights of their father's old property and intended to have the matter determined by the Court. [Payne, Grace Ellen (1948) Affidavit giving legal notice of intention to file suit in District Court of Stephens County, Oklahoma, Ref: Book 414, page 344] It is not clear who this claim was directed at. Frank and Emory had continued the farn between them. Frank had died in 1928, and John Vernon Gentry continues the connection with his grandfather's land to this day (1997).

Grace Gentry was a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC). She claimed membership under her grandfather, W.J. Gentry. It was actually her grandfather John Melton Gentry, whose name Grace confused, who served in the Confederate Army. Grace was determined to get into the UDC and it was known she was not going to let anything, such as her other grandfather William J. Mounts' service in the Union Army, to get in her way. An incomplete draft of her application, remaining in the family, lists her parents as William Melton (sic) Gentry (born 1851 TN, died Sept. 1829 Duncan, OK) and his wife as Mary Evelyn Mounts (born Aug 1857, Died Aug 10, 1940 Duncan, OK). She went on to list her grandfather as William John Gentry (of Darnells, TX born in TN) and his wife as Pamela Harpoole (also born in TN).

Grace married Marvin Walter Payne on 22 Jan 1907 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Marvin (son of Samuel Marshall Payne and Olivia McClanahan) was born on 17 Jan 1881 in Gainesville, Cooke County, Texas; died on 4 Jan 1948 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Marlow, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Emory was issued a delayed certificate of birth. The supporting evidence was his application for employment with the Oklahoma Railway company and the birth certificate of his daughter, Ruth Hazel Gentry. The informant for his death certificate was Lillie R. Gentry of 3409 Campbell.

According to the 1928 Duncan City Directory, Emory and Lilly lived at 101 Elm Street.

World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Name: Emory Howell Gentry
City: Arthur
County: Stephens
State: Oklahoma
Birthplace: Oklahoma;United States of America
Birth Date: 26 May 1893
Race: Caucasian
Roll: 1852128
Occupation: Farming
Next of kin: Wife and 2 children
Height/Build: Medium/Medium
Color of Eyes/Hair: Gray/Brown
(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Emory married Lillie Letticia Rowe on 22 Dec 1912 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Lillie (daughter of James Allen Taylor Rowe and Angie Cordelia Green) was born on 21 Dec 1896 in Coalgate, Coal County, Oklahoma; died on 16 Oct 1978 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma; was buried in Fairview Cemetery, Grady County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Known as Pearl. Ruth Pearl Gentry had a picture of her grandmother Pamelia Harpole. As a child she was very close to her cousin Harry Carl Payne. They were about the same age. Died at the age of 91. This needs confirmation.

Ruth married Scott Phillip Hall on 3 Jun 1918 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Scott was born on 19 Oct 1896 in McKinney, Collin County, Texas; died on 15 Nov 1976 in Pampa, Gray County, Texas; was buried in Fairview Cemetery, Pampa, Gray County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Lynell writes that his middle name is uncertain. He might be either Charles Ralph or Charles W. She found the family listed as follows in 1910:

1910 census Grady Co. OK ED 75 Pg 123A
Chicksha twp. 1126 So. 9th St.
163/166
Parsons, Charles W., head, MW, 29 M1 6, TX MO MO
Mattie L., wife, FW, 23, M1 6, SC SC SC
Lucille, dau., FW, 5, TX TX SC

Charles married Mattie Lou Jones on 5 Jun 1904 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Mattie was born on 22 Jan 1887; died on 12 Nov 1977 in Oklahoma; was buried in Rose Hill Cemetery, Chickasha, Grady County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Unsure this is William Hardy.
1910 census Grady Co. OK ED 90 Pg. 28B
Amber twp.
173/175 Powel, Sarah, head, FW, 56, AR - TX Boarding house
Walter, son, MW, 2?, OK MO AR
Minnie, dau., FW, 18, OK MO AR
Ava, dau., FW, 16, OK MO AR
?b?Parsons, Hardy, boarder, MW, 25, S, MO - -
Early or Easly, ?, boarder, MW, 39, S, MS OH MO
Headrick, Joe, boarder, MW, 25, S, KS NB, IA
No idea if this is the same person in 1918 but the birth date is about the same.
WWI Draft Registration - 1918
Name: Hardy Parsons
City: Oklahoma City
County: Oklahoma
State: Oklahoma
Birth Date: 07 Jan 1884
Race: White
Roll: 1851895
DraftBoard: 2
Occupation: Brakeman for Frisco RR, Oklahoma City, OK
Next of kin: Mrs. Della Parsons, 719 1/2 Cal, Oklahoma City, OK
Brown eyes, black hair





1920 Census Oklahoma Co. OK ED 153 Pg. 9B
Prect. 14 - Oklahoma City
719 1/2 West California
74/195 Parsons, Hardy, head, MW, 36, M, MO MO TX
Della B., wife, FW, 26, M. OK TN TN
Evelyn E., dau., FW, 8, OK MO OK
Elizabeth E., dau., FW, 6 3/12, OK MO OK
(Above courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Notes:

Duncan Weekly Banner - September 2, 1910 News of the death of Malcolm Parsons, at Amber, Okla., after an illness of only five days with typhoid fever, was received in this city this week. He was a son of Lum Parsons, a former citizen of Velma, this county. Malcolm was a big stout young fellow, aged twenty-three years and esteemed by all who knew him. Announcement of his death was received here with genuine regret.

(Transcription courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Notes:

Known as Roy. Lynell Cordell found the information copied below:

World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Name: Edgar Ray Parsons
City: Chickasha
County: Grady
State: Oklahoma
Birthplace: Ashley, Missouri; United States of America
Birth Date: 28 Sep 1887
Race: A huge letter C is on top of this line (Colored? Caucasian?)
Occupation: Produce Truck Driver for Morrison Parsons Produce, Chickasha, OK
Dependents: Wife and Baby
Tall height, Medium build
Brown eyes, black hair
Roll: 1851777
DraftBoard: 1
~~~~~~~~~~~
This may be Roy and Maggie in 1930:
1930 census Oklahoma Co. OK ED 55-154 Pg. 165A
3300 Prospect St.
32/34 Parsons, Ray E., head, MW, 43, M, age when first married 19, MO MO TX
Margaret A ., wife, 37, M, age when first married 19, AR TX AR
~~~~~~~~~
SSDI - EDGAR PARSONS 28 Sep 1887 Jan 1976 73107 (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, OK) (none specified) 441-01-0222 Oklahoma

Edgar married Maggie Wright Seibert on 5 Jun 1912. Maggie was born about 1893 in Arkansas; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He was known as George. Lynell Cordell supplied the information below:

WWI Draft Registration - 1917
Name: Arthur George Persons
City: Chickasha
County: Grady
State: Oklahoma
Birthplace: Pike Co. Missouri
Birth Date: 19 Nov 1891
Race: Caucasian
Roll: 1851777
DraftBoard: 1
Occupation: Salesman of ?
Employer: J.P. Wolverton(?), Chickasha, OK
Dependent: Wife
Do you claim exemption from draft: Ruptured and ? eye
Brown eyes, dark hair
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1920 census Grady Co. OK ED 172 Pg. 9B
Chicksha City, 1609 Minnesota Ave.
908/908/ Parsons, George, Head, MW, 28, M, MO MO TX
Pearl, wife, FW, 24, M, MO MO MO
George, Jr., son, MW, 1 6/12, OK MO MO
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 1925 City Directory Page 563
Parsons, A. Geo. (Eunice) parts dept. Fred Jones-Ford Dealer r. 1209 W. Park pl
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1930 census Oklahoma Co. OK ED 55-84 Pg. 272 A
Oklahoma City
1209 West Park Place
105/134 Parsons, George, head, MW, 37, M, age when first married 23, MO MO MO
Pearl, wife, FW, 33, M, age when first married 19, MO MO MO
George, Jr., son, MW, 12, OK MO MO
Bobby, son, MW, 3 ?/12, OK MO MO
~~~~~~~~~~~~
SSDI - ARTHUR PARSONS 19 Nov 1891 Jul 1966 73112 (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, OK) (none specified) 440-05-0991 Oklahoma
SSDI - PEARL PARSONS 05 Nov 1895 Jan 1987 71295 (Winnsboro, Franklin, LA) (none specified) 442-64-8761 Oklahoma


He was living, with his wife and young son, on Minnesota Avenue, Grady County, Oklahoma in 1920.

1920 census in Grady Co. OK - Pg. 9B 908/908

Parsons, George 28, MO MO TX Pearl, 24, MO MO MO George Jr., 1 6/12, OK

Per the SSDI:

ARTHUR PARSONS 19 Nov 1891 Jul 1966 73112 (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, OK) (none specified) 440-05-0991 Oklahoma

Arthur married Eunice Pearl Bain about 1917. Eunice was born on 5 Nov 1895 in Trenton, Grundy County, Missouri; died in Jan 1987 in Franklin Parish, Louisiana. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Could this have been the Mabel E. Gentry (18) of Duncan who married James J. Haymaker (21) of Duncan on 9 Jul 1908? It certainly seems possible. Unfortunately the parents were not given in this entry. How could she have married twice in the same year-maybe her first husband, James Haymaker, died shortly after the wedding. That would have given five months. May have divorced by 1910.

She was recorded as living in her parental home.

Mabel was referred to in a list of the surviving children of John Price Gentry as "Mrs. C. S. Kerr - [of] Chula Vista, Calif."

Mabel married William R. Witherspoon on 24 Dec 1908 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. William was born about 1880; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mabel married C. S. Kerr after 1909. C. was born before 1891. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Luther was referred to in a list of the surviving children of John Price Gentry as " L. O. Gentry of Wichita Falls [Texas]".

Did he have an infant son who was born 9 July 1929 in Wichita County, Texas?

Lynell Cordell found the following information:

WWI Draft Registration - 1917
Name: Luther Gentry
City: Duncan
County: Stephens
State: Oklahoma
Birthplace: Duncan, Oklahoma; United States of America
Birth Date: 05 Feb 1894
Race: Caucasian
Roll: 1852128
Married or single: Single
Brown eyes, dark hair
(couldn't read occupation)
1930 census Wichita Co. TX ED
11/11 Gentry, Luther J., head, MW, 35, Age when 1st married 29, OK US US
Verma, wife, FW, 35, Age when 1st married 29, KS KS IL
Collier, Emma, mother-in-law, FW, 56, Wd., KS PA OH
Arnold, Hollie, sister-in-law, FW, 34, WD. KS IL KS
Bernadine, niece, FW, 12, KS KS KS
Living in Wichita Falls, TX at time of his father's death, 1946.
SSDI
LUTHER GENTRY 05 Feb 1894 Feb 1968 76301 (Wichita Falls, Wichita, TX) (none specified) 455-09-0220 Texas
TX Death Record
Gentry Luther Owen 02-01-1968 WICHITA M SINGLE

Family/Spouse: Verma Collier. Verma was born on 30 Jun 1894 in Kansas; died on 5 Apr 1984 in Wichita Falls, Wichita County, Texas; was buried in Crestview Memorial Park Mausoleum, Wichita Falls, Wichita County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Gerald was referred to in a list of the surviving children of John Price Gentry as "Gerald H. [Gentry] of Oklahoma City".

Ken Harvey writes that he joined the cavalry, and noted, "Take a fool's advice and never join the cavalry"

Lynell Cordell found the following:

U.S. World War II Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946
Name: Gerald H Gentry
Birth Year: 1908
Race: White, citizen
Nativity State or Country: Oklahoma
State: Oklahoma
County or City: Oklahoma
Enlistment Date: 21 Nov 1945
Enlistment State: Oklahoma
Enlistment City: Oklahoma City
Branch: Air Corps
Branch Code: Air Corps
Grade: Staff Sergeant
Grade Code: Staff Sergeant
Term of Enlistment: Enlistment for Hawaiian Department
Component: Regular Army (including Officers, Nurses, Warrant Officers, and Enlisted Men)
Education: 4 years of high school
Civil Occupation: Cook
Marital Status: Married
Height: 98
Weight: 244

Gerald was living in Oklahoma City, OK at the time of his father's death in 1946.

SSDI
GERALD GENTRY 03 May 1908 Dec 1984 73109 (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, OK) (none specified) 441-28-3181 Oklahoma

Sunnylane Cemetery, Del City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Section 10 Block 2 Row 1-8
10 2 4 85 GENTRY, Gerald H. May 3 1908 - Nov 21 1984 M Sgt US Air Force WWII

(Research):Census Information:

1930 Census

1930 census Laramie Co. WY ED 11-15 Pg. 218B
Military Reservation in Dist. 3
Fort Francis E. Warren
Randall Avenue
Gentry, Gerald H., private, MW, 27, S, OK TX TX, Soldier, U
S Army

Gerald married Elma Lee Davis on 8 Mar 1939 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Elma was born on 21 Apr 1922 in Alva, Woods County, Oklahoma; died on 14 Mar 2007 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mattie married Ora Albert King on 10 Jul 1904 in Wise County, Texas. Ora was born about 1886 in Missouri; died about 1965. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Lynell Cordell found the following family in Federal Census records, and thinks maybe this is Claude Lee Williamson in 1930. It's really hard to read and she didn't find them in 1920.

1930 census Crosby Co. TX ED 54-7 Pg. 230B (extra hard to read)
Lorenzo town - Second Street
17/17 Williamson, Claud L., head, MW, 43, M, age when first married 26, TX MO MO
Irene M., wife, FW, 42, M, age when first married 26, TX KY TX
Hazel(?), dau., FW, 16, TX TX TX
Namie L., dau., FW, 14, TX TX TX
C. L. Jr., son, MW, 12, TX TX TX
Jack, son, MW, 9, TX TX TX
Joe, son, MW, 8, TX TX TX
Bobbie L., son, MW, 6, TX TX TX
Dorothy L., dau, FW, 6, TX TX TX
Can't read, dau., FW, 4, TX TX TX
Another family is in this house but I can't read the names.

Lynell also pointed out that Juanita Rainey had corresponded with a Dr. W. Joe Williamson, the son of Claude, and grandson of Jerry. The 8 year old Joe in the above family makes this a likely fit.

Family/Spouse: Irene Fugate. Irene was born about 1888 in Texas; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

James Homer Williamson obit-
Wise Co. newspaper - March 1963

J.H. Williamson Buried March 16

James Homer Williamson, 74, died March 14 in a local hospital following a short illness. He was a native of Greenwood, a lifetime resident of Texas, a member of the Methodist church and a retired mail carrier. He moved back to Decatur four months ago after having lived in Lubbock the past 18 years.
He is survived by his wife, the former Miss Ruth Taylor; two sons, Taylor Williamson of Lubbock and Guinn T. Williamson of Tulsa, Okla.; one daughter Mrs. Dorcell Young of Denton; six brothers, C. L. Williamson of Amarillo, J. C. Williamson of Lubbock, Elmer Williamson of Alvord, Luther Williamson of Ardmore, Okla., C. W. Williamson of McAllen and Irvin Williamson of Lawton, Okla.; and six grandchildren.
Funeral services were held March 16 in the First Methodist Church with Rev. Raymond Corrigan, pastor, and Dr. R. E. Bell officiating. Interment was in Oak Lawn Cemetery. Pallbearers were R. N. Gregg and W. H. Finley of Decatur, J. L. McClung of Bridgeport, J. D. McElhanney of Chico, Willard Howell and Ben J. Fox of Alvord and John G. Loftin of-----(transcription of undated, unreferenced clipping, courtesy of Lynell Cordell. She notes that the bottom of the article was cut off)

Lynell also shared his Funeral Record, which lists the full name of his parents and his wife. His father was shown as born in Missouri, and his mother in Texas.

(Research):

Census Listings:


Federal Census
1930 census
Texas, Briscoe County, Silverton
ED 23-1 Pg. 243B
Silverton Town
13/152
Williamson, John (sic) H., head, O $4000 M W, 41, M 28 TX TX TN US Mail Carrier
Ruth, wife, F W, 42, M 29 TX TX TN
Ann, dau., F W, 4 1/12,S TX TX TX
Guen, son, M W, 3 3/12 (sic), S TX TX TX
Taylor, son, M W, 1 1/2 (sic) S TX TX TX

Family/Spouse: Sarah Ruth Taylor. Sarah was born on 20 Aug 1887 in Wise County, Texas; died on 19 Sep 1978 in Denton County, Texas; was buried in Oaklawn Cemetery, Wise County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

(Research):

1930 Census
Texas, Jones County, JP 6
Enumerated April 15, 1930
ED 127-16 SD 8 Sheet 6B
Anson Road
124-126
Williamson, Jason C Head M W 38 m 27 Tx Tx Tx Teacher School
Williamson, Nora M Wf F W 30 M 19 Tx Va Va
Williamson, Louise A Dtr F W 15 S Tx Tx Tx
Williamson, Thelma M Dtr F W 10 S Tx Tx Tx
Williamson, Windol W Son M W 8 S Tx Tx Tx
Williamson, Virginia M Dtr F W 6 S Tx Tx Tx
Williamson, Robert C Son M W 5 S Tx Tx Tx
Williamson, Roy S Son M W 3 1/12 S Tx Tx Tx

Jason married Nora Mae Manire on 19 Jan 1919 in Wise County, Texas. Nora (daughter of Arthur C. Manire and Willie May Hodges) was born on 26 Dec 1899 in Montague, Montague County, Texas; died on 25 Nov 1997 in Lubbock County, Texas; was buried in Resthaven Memorial Park, Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Wise Co. Messenger -- Aug. 1964

Services Held for Elmer Williamson

Elmer Williamson, 72, a lifelong resident of Wise County, died July 30 in a Decatur hospital. Funeral services were held August 1 in Alvord Church of Christ with J.E. Doggett officiating. Burial was in Alvord. Mr. Williamson was born at Greenwood March 8, 1892. He taught school for 25 years at Prarie Point, Roe, Greenwood and Rush Creek and served with the U.S. Post Office for 1928 to 1961. Survivors include his widow; one son, Delwin Williamson of Denton; two daughters, Mrs. Weldon McNeely of Shreveport and Mrs. Ray Helms of Dallas; four brothers, Luther Williamson of Ardmore, Jayson Williamson of Lubbock, Weaver Williamson of Pharr and Irvin Williamson of Lawton, Oklahoma and eight grandsons.

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/J6MJ-8Y7
name: Elmer Williamson
death date: 30 Jul 1964
death place: Decatur, Wise, Texas
gender: Male
race: White
death age: 72 years
estimated birth date:
birth date: 08 Mar 1892
birthplace: Greenwood, Texas
marital status: Married
spouse's name:
father's name: Jerry Williamson
father's birthplace:
mother's name: Lou Gentry
mother's birthplace:
occupation: Retired Postal Service
place of residence: Alvord, Wise, Texas
cemetery: Alvord
burial place: Alvord, Texas
burial date: 01 Aug 1964
additional relatives: X
film number: 2117595
digital film number: 4028380
image number: 1819
reference number: CN 47289
Collection: "Texas, Deaths, 1890-1976," Elmer Williamson, 1964


(Research):Census Listings:

1930 census Wise Co. TX

ED 249-15 Sheet 15B
County road in Greenwood 328/344

Williamson Elmer, MW 38 M 24 TX MO MO
Williamson, Ivon, FW 34 M 20 TN TN TN
Williamson, Lourine, dau. FW 12 TX TX TN
Williamson, Delwin, son MW 10 TX TX TN
Williamson, Doris, dau. FW 8 TX TX TN

Family/Spouse: Ivan Coleman. Ivan was born on 21 Sep 1897 in Martin, Weakley County, Tennessee; died on 24 Jan 1966 in Denton County, Texas; was buried in Alvord Cemetery, Wise County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Alvis Milton Williamson
The 1900 census has this person named John H., born Jan. 1894, age 6 but the 1910 census shows him as Alvis M. age 15.

Wise Co. TX Marriages
Williamson, Alvis - Rice, Miss Ada Dec 1, 1915 Book 8 Page 161

WWI Draft Registration - June 5, 1917
Name: Alvis Milton Williamson
City: Greenwood
County: Wise
State: Texas
Birthplace: Greenwood, Texas
Birth Date: Jan 28 1894
Race: Caucasian
Roll: 1983875
DraftBoard: 0
Occupation: Farming
Next of kin: Wife and child
Gray eyes, black hair

(Research):Census Information:

1920 census Montague Co. TX ED43 Pg. 67A
Prect. 3
Alvord Road
Fm/4/4 Williamson, Alvis M., head, MW, 25, M, TX TX TX
Ada O., wife, FW, 21, M, TX MO TX
Mildred O., dau., FW, 3, TX TX TX
J.J., son, MW, 1 1/12, TX TX TX

1930 census Haskell Co. TX ED 104-1 Pg. 23A
Haskell city
545/639 Williamson, Alvis, head, MW, 36, M, age when firs
t married 21, TX MO TX
Ada, wife, FW, 31, M, age when first married 17, TX MO TX
Odell M., dau., FW, 13, TX TX TX
J.J., son, MW, 11, TX TX TX
Alvis L., son, MW, 3, TX TX TX
Gerald J., son, MW, 1, TX TX TX

Alvis married Ada Rice on 1 Dec 1915 in Wise County, Texas. Ada was born about 1899 in Texas; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Luther Williamson and his cousin Grace Ellen Gentry were fond of one another and used to correspond.

He married (1) Edna Beatrice ??? b. 4 Sept 1905 d. 28 Dec 1987 (2) Ilma C. ??? b. 22 Dec 1904 d. 10 Dec 1959 and (3) Beulah ??? b. 12 Apr 1905 d. 22 May 1983. He is buried next to Ilma in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Carter County, Oklahoma. His grave marker shows: FS Texas, Pfc., Co B, 359 Inf. -- WWI

?b?In April, 2006, Lynell Gentry sent the following email about Luther Williamson: "Luther is confusing because of the Ardmore City Directories showing him with Edna in 1935 thru 1955 or so. He's listed as a postal worker and that matches with his obit. But, in 1957 he's listed with llma and then she died in 1959 so he's alone the next years and then Beulah is listed in 1968. Looks to me that Ilma should be there in the early years if they married in Wise Co. in 1919. Unless.....Ilma (don't know if those are L's or I's (eyes) but maybe it sounds like Edna?

WWI Draft Registration - 1917
Name: Luther Williamson
City: Rt. 1 Greenwood
County: Wise
State: Texas
Birthplace: Greenwood, Texas;United States of America
Birth Date: Dec 29 1895
Race: Caucasian
Roll: 1983875
Occupation: Farmer
Married or Single: Single
Black eyes, brown hair

Wise Co. TX Marriages
Williamson, Luther - Dodge, Miss Ilnia July 29, 1919 Book 8 Page 554

1930 census Carter Co. OK ED 10-27 Pg. 84B
Morgan Twp.
235/246 Williamson, Luther, head, MW, 34, M, age when first married 23, TX TX TX
Ilma, wife, FW, 31, M, age when first married 20, TX OH AL
Dena M., dau., FW, 3, OK TX TX

Daily Ardmorite Monday, Jan. 10, 1972 Luther Williamson

Services for Luther Williamson, 76, will be Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the Harvey Chapel conducted by Rev. J. Cullis Smith, First Orthodox Baptist Church and Rev. Joe Wiggins, Emmanuel Baptist Church. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Williamson, 1106 Third Ave. SW, died Sunday night in Ardmore after a three-month illness. Born Dec. 29, 1895 at Greenwood, Tex., he had been a resident of Ardmore for 50 years, coming here from Decatur, Tex.. He married Beulah Green Sept. 15, 1967 in Ardmore. A retired postal worker, he was a veteran of World War I. Williamson was a member of the First Orthodox Baptist Church, the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and the "40 et 8".

Survivors include his wife, Beulah, of the home; a daughter, Mrs. Frank Cummings, Jr., Gainesville, Tex.; a step-daughter, Mrs. T. M. Taylor, Burkburnett, Tex.; two brothers, I.D., Lawton, and C. Weaver, Pharr, Tex.; a grandson; and three great grandsons.

Pallbearers will be Bill Blalock, I.D. Copenhaver, Charles Grad, Ben Layne, J.T. Salyer, and L.K. Vann. Harvey Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Notes:

Wise County Messenger Page 17 11 Nov 1976

Calvin Weaver Williamson, Sr., 78, died Saturday at his home, west of Decatur. Services were Monday at Christian Funeral Chapel. Frank Briscoe and the Rev. Terry Atkinson officiated with burial in Oaklawn Cemetery. Pallbearers were Calvin Williamson III, Rodney Wilson, Bob Nowell, Curt and Carl Williamson and Jerry Rasbury.

Williamson, born Sept. 2 1898 in Greenwood, was a retired deputy collector of United States Customs. He married Iva Mae Walker July 30, 1921.

Survivors include his wife; son Calvin Williamson, Jr. of Decatur; brother Ervin Williamson; and five grandchildren.

His funeral record shows he was a veteran of World War I, gives the full names of his wife and parents, and also his cause of death.

Calvin married Iva Mae Walker on 30 Jul 1921 in Texas. Iva was born on 7 Nov 1899 in Texas; died on 15 Nov 1996 in Wise County, Texas; was buried in Oaklawn Cemetery, Decatur, Wise County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Name: Stewart Doyle Williamson
Death date: 16 Dec 1954
Death place: Haskell, Haskell, Texas
Gender: Male
Race or color (on document): White
Age at death: 53 years 1 month 29 days
Estimated birth year:
Birth date: 17 Oct 1901
Birth place: Wise Co., Texas
Marital status: Married
Spouse name:
Father name: Jerry Williamson
Father birth place: Missouri
Mother name: Lou Emma Gentry
Mother birth place: Texas
Occupation: Farming
Residence: Haskell, Haskell, Texas
Cemetery name: Willow
Burial place: Haskell, Texas
Burial date: 17 Dec 1954
Additional relatives:
Film number: 2114328
Digital GS number: 4165412
Image number: 2276
Reference number: cn 61361
Collection: Texas Deaths, 1890-1976

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Notes:

He worked for Marvin Payne at the Chickashaw Cottonseed oil mill for a while. He lived with Marvin and his cousin Grace for about two months.

Index of 19,202 Birth Records Recorded in Wise County, Texas 1860's - 1930's
WILLIAMSON Jerry GENTRY Lou - Irving Dale 9/20/04 M Greenwood 1209 & 1209a & 1209b

Social Security Death Index
Name: Irving Williamson
SSN: 519-24-5373
Last Residence: 73505 Lawton, Comanche, Oklahoma, United States of America
Born: 20 Sep 1904
Died: Dec 1986
State (Year) SSN issued: Idaho (Before 1951 )

Notes:

Cemetery Records: DOB 9-21-1907 DOD 7/30/1960

COKER FUNERAL HOME RECORDS ? Wise Co. TX

Williamson, Ellen F., Death date- July 30, 1930, - Birth date- Sept 21, 1897, Cottonwood Cem., single, Parents: Jerry Williamson, Lou Emma Gentry, Farm girl - Tuberculosis - 8 brothers were pall bearers (Note: Differs from the Cemetery records, above)

Juanita is really on top of things! She noticed that the 1930 census shows Ellen as 22 years old. Then I noticed that Ellen is not on the 1900 census. So, we've decided that maybe both the cemetery record and the funeral home record may be right and wrong. What do you think of the dates 9/21/1907 - 7/30/1930? Lynell

Notes:

Arthur was called "Al" by a lot of people in Duncan because of his initials A.L. Lyn Cordell writes that on his World War I Draft registration, his middle name is listed as Lemoyne. Arthur lived at 305 South 7th. in Duncan for years. He taught at the Arthur School, east of Duncan and then started work at the Duncan Post Office. He became Assistant Postmaster by his retirement. He didn't live for too long after his retirement and died just after they moved to a new house.

World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Name: Arthur Lemoyne Gentry
City: Duncan
County: Stephens
State: Oklahoma
Birthplace: Oklahoma;United States of America
Birth Date: 03 Aug 1892
Race: Caucasian
Roll: 1852128
Occupation: Postal Clerk, Duncan Post Office
Nearest Relative: wife and one child
Height/Build: Tall/Slender
Color of Eyes/Hair: Brown/brown
World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Name: Delbert Gentry
City: Arthur, OK
County: Stephens
State: Oklahoma
Birthplace: Alma, Oklahoma; United States of America
Birth Date: 05 Oct 1893
Race: Caucasian
Roll: 1852128
Occupation: Farming
Married or Single: Single
Height/Build: Tall/Slender
Color of Eyes/Hair: Gray/light
World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Name: Jess Newton Gentry
City: Arthur
County: Stephens
State: Oklahoma
Birthplace: Alma, Oklahoma; United States of America
Birth Date: 07 Sep 1896
Roll: 1852128
Next of Kin: James Edwin Gentry, father. Arthur, OK
Height/Build: Tall/Medium
Color of Eyes/Hair: Brown/Brown




The Duncan Eagle-Jan. 5, 1961 Al Gentry Dies Here Monday

A familiar face will be missing from the scene at the Duncan Post Office following the death of assistant Postmaster Arthur L. (Al) Gentry, 305 South 7th, early Monday morning in a local hospital. Death came following two heart attacks last week. He suffered his first attack early Saturday morning after reporting to work on his 46th anniversary of employment with the Post Office Department. His condition became critical after a second attack Saturday afternoon. The service was held Wednesday at the First Christian Church. Burial was in the Duncan Cemetery by the Brooks Funeral Home. Gentry was born in Alma, August 3, 1892 and later taught school there. He served as assistant postmaster since January 12, 1957.Gentry held every office in the local Independent Order of Oddfellows Lodge and several appointive offices in the grand lodge. He also was an elder in the First Christian Church. Survivors are the widow, Myrtis Burch Gentry of the home, who he married April 15, 1913 at Velma. Also a son, James E. Gentry of Wichita Falls, Tex.; three daughters, Mrs. Robert P. Sanders of Pasadena, Tex.; Mrs Roy L. Winters of Ada and Mrs. James Eldridge of Ruston, La. Also four brothers, Loyd R. Gentry of Oklahoma City, Delbert Gentry, 516 Pine; Jess Gentry, 802 Sycamore, and Elmer Gentry, who lives on West Main in Duncan. Also two sisters, Mrs. Richard Meeks, 704 North 2nd, and Mrs. T. N. Goodwin of Belle, Calif.; 11 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.

(Research):
Census Information:

1930 census
Stephens Co. OK 305 So. 7th
187/210
Gentry, A.L., MW 37 M 20 OK TX TN
Myrtis, wife FW 34 M 17 TX AR MS
James, son MW 14 S OK OK TX
Marie, dau. FW 12 S OK OK TX
Mary H., dau. FW 10 S OK OK TX
Dorothy, dau. FW 6 OK OK TX

Arthur married Myrtis Burch on 15 Apr 1913 in Velma, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Myrtis was born on 19 Jul 1895 in Garland, Dallas County, Texas; died on 22 Apr 1998 in Ada, Pontotoc County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

1930 census Stephens Co. OK Parks Twp., ED 69-21 Sheet 3A 33/37 Gentry, Delbert, MW 36 M 31 OK TX KS
Eva, wife FW 22 M 17 TX TX TX
Harold, son MW 1 11/12 OK OK TX
Blue, Elizabeth, mother-in-law FW 54 Wd 16 TX TX TX

Duncan Banner-July 1974 Gentry Funeral Set Thursday--Bud Gentry, 80, 516 Pine, died at 6 p.m. Tuesday after a short illness. Service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday in the Northside Church of Christ conducted by John Cannon. Burial will be in the Duncan Cemetery under direction of the Brooks Funeral Home. Gentry was born Oct. 5, 1893 at Alma. He was a life-long resident of Stephens County, moving to Duncan in 1950 from Velma. He married Eva Blue on March 5, 1925 in Duncan. He was a veteran of World War I and was a retired Halliburton Services employee. He was a member of the Northside Church of Christ. Survivors are his wife of the home; a son, Harold Gentry, 911 N. C.; two daughters, Mrs Mansel (Betty) Daniels, Duncan Rt. 3, and Mrs Glen (Lynell) Cordell, Duncan Rt. 4; a brother, Elmer Gentry, 2104 Birch; two sisters, Mrs. Tolbert Goodwin, Bell, Calif., and Mrs Richard Meeks, 704 N. 2nd, and six grandchildren.

(Courtesy Lynell Cordell)

Delbert married Eva Leona Blue on 5 Mar 1925 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Eva was born on 30 Apr 1907 in Van Zandt County, Texas; died on 17 Aug 1993 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

When Bessie's husband vanished in the late 1920's, she was left as the sole supporter of their five children. She worked as a housekeeper and seamstress for various families in Duncan, including the Ederington's, who owned the local service station, and for the parish priest. She also had to rely on her and Tom's family for financial assistance. One person who was especially helpful was Tom's first cousin, Annie O'Neill Sparks. Annie was able to help Bessie enroll her older children in nearby Catholic Boarding Academies. These academies had been set up to service the needs of impoverished Native American children. But because Tom was enrolled in the Chickasaw Nation, and Annie was well known in her parish, she was able to help make this happen. Patty Gay, the youngest child, remained with her mother. She was a sickly child, with a congenetial heart defect that led to her early death.

Lynn Moroney told Charles that although Bessie received help from some of her kin, at times was resentful of being the object of their charity. Lynn also related a story that her mother Fay had told her, concerning a different type of charity. Bessie and her children lived for a while in a duplex in Duncan. This duplex had adjoining closets which actually allowed you access to your neighbors living quarters. Bessie's neighbor explained it would be of great service to her if Bessie could "keep her beans from burning" while she was at work each day. She would have a large pot of beans or stew simmering on the stove all day long, and each day Bessie would take one of her children through the closet with her "to stir the beans." She would give the child a small sample of the hot food every time they helped her to stir them, and admonish them to keep this a secret from the other children. The neighbor was fully aware of this, and both she and Bessie kept up the pretense that it was Bessie helping her, and that it wasn't the other way around. The girls compared stories years later, and were each surprised they weren't the only one whose meager lunch was supplemented by hot beans or stew.

After her daughters were grown, Bessie lived with each of them for a time. Charles recalls when she lived with his family in Duncan. He recalls that she was shy to the point of being reculsive, and fearful of many things, most especially of inclement weather. Whenever a storm even threatened, Charles was dispatched to take her to the storm celler, and to remain with her until it was all clear. His younger brother Bill soon discovered Bessie's almost obsessive attention to detail, and took delight in secretly tormenting her. He would turn the telephone in the wrong direction, or slightly tilt pictures and doilies in their home. Bessie would immediately fix things back to way they should be. When she would walk through the room again a few hours later, she would be upset to find everything slightly out of order again, and worriedly set about put things back in order.

Charles Strong reports that as a youngster, he on occasion thought he heard a Payne relation let slip a reference to how "Uncle Tommy" was doing, and immediately change the subject when they realized he was in the room. He suspects that Tom may have been in touch with one of more of his relations back home. If this was so, however, no one shared this information with Bessie or her daughters.

Bessie had an ulcer on her leg that never healed, and after several unsuccessful skin grafts she eventually had to have it amputated, and was give a wooden prosthetic. Her grandchildren were both scared and fascinated by the leg, and hid it from Bessie occasionally to tease her. Charles heard that the leg infection started when she was a young girl, helping her parents in the fields. She would scratch mosquito bites until her legs were raw and ragged. One of the sores became infected with ragweed, and never properly healed. Charles is not sure as to the veracity of this story, and suspects that a genetic skin condition may have contributed to this. He and several of his children and grandchildren also suffer from severe skin allergies which may be related.

FUNERAL IS HELD FOR MRS. BESSIE PAYNE

A native of Alma, Mrs. Bessie Payne, 63, died in a local hospital early Saturday after a two week illness, following a stroke. She had lived in Oklahoma City the past 15 years. Funeral was in the Church of the Assumption Monday morning with Rev. Ferdinand Strasser officiating. Rosary was in Grantham Funeral Home Chapel Sunday afternoon. Burial was in Duncan Cemetery. Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. Homer Strong, 1806 Birch, and Mrs. Fay Pierce and Mrs. Jim Hanna, both of Oklahoma City; a son, Thomas of Newport Beach, California; two sisters, Mrs. Richard Meeks, 704 No. 2nd, and Mrs. T.M. Goodwin, Belle, California. Five brothers, Al Gentry, 305 South 7th; Delbert Gentry, 516 Pine; Elmer Gentry, west of Duncan; Jess Gentry, Duncan and Lloyd Gentry, Oklahoma City and 13 grandchildren. Bearers were Lucien Haas, I. G. Imming, L.W. Jennings, Eldon Pickrell, Louis Scott and Robert Walter.

(Research):Census Information:

1930 census Stephens Co. OK
King Twp. Duncan city, ED 69-4 Sheet 19A 17 ? No. 7th - Hot
el 396/435C

Payne, Bessie B., FW 35 M 18 OK TX TX
Patty G., dau. FW 2 2/12 S OK OK OK

Bessie married Thomas Hamilton Payne, II on 27 Dec 1912 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Thomas (son of Thomas Bunker Payne and Mary T. "Mollie" Hardwick) was born on 20 Mar 1893 in Marlow, Indian Territory; died on 12 Dec 1957 in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon; was buried in Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Jesse [Newton] Gentry (b.1896), was listed in the 1920 census as a boarder with Thomas H. and Bessie Payne, his elder sister, in Parks Township, Stephens Co. He was twenty three years old.

The Duncan Eagle-Nov. 11, 1963 Death Takes Jess Gentry Rites were pending today for 67-year-old Jess Newton Gentry, a retired farmer, who died Sunday night in his home at 407 1/2 Pine. Gentry, a native of Alma, died of an apparent heart attack. He was born Sept. 7, 1896 and had lived most of his life in Stephens County. Gentry left here in 1951 and lived in California until 1956. He was a member of the Church of Christ and a veteran of World War I. Brooks Funeral Home will announce arrangements. Survivors include three brothers, Elmer Gentry, West Main Street; Lloyd Gentry, Oklahoma City, and Delbert Gentry, 516 Pine. Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Richard Meeks, 704 N. 2nd, and Mrs. T. N. Goodwin, Bell, Calif., and a sister-in-law, Mrs. Al Gentry, 1315 Beech.

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Notes:

On her marriage she was described as "of Arthur, Oklahoma." They were married by L. G. Maynard

Dera married Tolbert Newton Goodwin on 28 Dec 1920 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Tolbert was born on 13 Sep 1897 in Indian Territory; died on 30 May 1972 in Bell, Los Angeles County, California; was buried in Rose Hills Memorial Park Cemetery, Whittier, Los Angeles County, California. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

On his marriage he was described as "of Arthur, Stephens Co., Oklahoma."

He loved music and played both the piano and the fiddle.

The Duncan Banner-Mar. 30, 1984 Elmer Fred Gentry, 82, 2104 Birch, died Friday, March 30, at Duncan Regional Hospital after a sudden illness. Service will be at 2 p.m. Monday at the Westside Church of Christ with Jon Hosch officiating. Burial will be in the Duncan Cemetery under the direction of the Don Grantham Funeral Home. Born Nov. 6, 1901, in Stephens County, Gentry was a longtime resident of Duncan. He was a farmer, worked at Tinker Air Force Base during World War II and retired from Ridley Packing in 1967. He had been an elder for the Westside Church of Christ for 31 years. Gentry married Hazel Truitt on Sept. 22, 1928. Survivors include his wife, Hazel of the home: a daughter, Juanell Leard of Oklahoma City; a son, Don Gentry of Phoenix; two sisters, Ruth Meeks of Duncan, and Dera Goodwin of California; and seven grandchildren. Bearers will be Alfred Lewis, Sam Stovall, Don Douglas, Charles Bently, Kenneth Nunley and Loyd Cowan. Honorary bearers will be the elders and deacons of the Westside Church of Christ.

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

(Research):Census Listings:

1930 census
Stephens Co. OK King Twp. Duncan city, ED 69-28 Sheet 10B 8
06 Cherry
253/259 Gentry, Elmer F., MW 28 M 26 OK OK OK
Hazel, wife FW 18 M 16 OK TX OK
Juanell L., dau. FW 9/12 S OK OK OK

Elmer married Hazel Truitt on 22 Sep 1928 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Hazel was born on 14 Jul 1912 in Alma, Stephens County, Oklahoma; died on 4 Jan 1985 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Lloyd was very interested in photography and took a lot of pictures. He had an early amateur movie camera. His daughter Pat sent a copy of some of these movies to Lynell Gentry.

His garage in Oklahoma City was full of ham radio equipment and electronics.

His niece, Anna Laura, also reported that he sang and played the guitar beautifully. She remembers him sitting on the porch at sundown, his music entrancing his young nieces and nephews. He was too shy to sing in public however.

The Daily Oklahoman-July 24, 1967 Lloyd Gentry Dies, Rites Are Tuesday Lloyd R. Gentry, 57, of 4605 NW 11th, husband of Mrs. Esther Gentry, cafeteria manager at The Daily Oklahoman and Oklahoman City Times, died Sunday at Baptist Memorial Hospital. Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday in Smith & Kernke Funeral Home with burial pending. Gentry was born in Duncan and had lived in Oklahoma City for 25 years. He was an instrument specialist at Tinker Air Force Base and a member of Downtown Baptist Church. He was also music director for Southside Mission. Survivors include, in addition to his wife, a daughter, Mrs. Patricia Ann Lawson, of 4108 Nicklas; two sisters, Mrs. Ruth Meeks, Duncan, and Mrs. Dera Goodwin, Bell, Calif., and two brothers, Delbert and Elmer, both of Duncan.

(Lloyd's daughter Pat gave her father's birth place as Amber, Grady Co., not Duncan as stated in the obituary.)

Lloyd married Esther Mae Ray on 22 Oct 1938 in Sherman, Grayson County, Texas. Esther was born on 24 Dec 1914 in Winder, Barrow County, Georgia; died on 3 Dec 1992 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma; was buried in Memorial Park Cemetery, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

In the Mederian Nursing Home (1996), south of Duncan, Oklahoma.

The Duncan Banner-Mar. 29, 1998 Ruth C. Meeks Meridian -- Ruth C. Meeks, 85, of Meridian died Saturday, March 28, 1998, in a Meridian nursing home. Graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Monday in the Duncan Cemetery with Ron Stough officiating under the direction of Carter-Smart Funeral Home. Mrs. Meeks was born April 29, 1912 in Alma to James E. and Zada (Trawick) Gentry. On April 7, 1951, she married Richard Meeks in Duncan. A lifelong resident of the Duncan area she was a member of Eastside Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband on May 30, 1993. Survivors include several nieces and nephews.

Ruth married Richard "Red" Meeks on 7 Apr 1951 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Richard was born on 22 Nov 1913 in Oklahoma; died on 30 May 1993 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Duncan Weekly Eagle
Duncan. Stephens County, Oklahoma
LEE WOODS, prop.; J. L. R. NAIL, editor

Thursday, January 4, 1917
MISS RUBY CONDRON of Bowie and MISS CHLOE PEAL of Denton, Texas visited Mr. and Mrs. WALTER PAYNE and family.

The Duncan Banner
Friday, May 4, 1917
Miss Ruby Lee Condron died at Oklahoma City Thursday, April 26, and the remains were brought here and interred in Duncan Cemetery Friday. She was a granddaughter of W. M. Gentry and has many other relatives here. She was 20 years of age. Many friends will sorrow over the death of this estimable young lady and join in sympathy to the bereaved relatives.

(Courtesy of Lynell Gentry Cordell)

Notes:

Ken Harvey notes that she is neither in the group photo of Permelia and Walter's family, nor is she remembered by Lewis Adair Payne. She is also not listed with her other sisters at the time of the 1910 census. She probably died young, before the photo of the other children was taken in 190

Notes:

H(arry). C(arl). Payne Dies Today Duncan Banner Wed. February 20, 1957 Pg. 1 Transcribed by C. R. Strong 11-29-2003

Harry Carl Payne. 60, was found dead in his home on Duncan route 4, about 8 a.m. today. Death apparently was the result of a heart attack. A neighbor, Hoyt (Pete) Hardin, took Payne home between 8 and 9 p.m. Tuesday. Hardin, a brother-in-law, returned this morning and found Payne slumped on his bed and dead. Sheriff James Rose reported Payne had apparently sat on the bed and taken off his shoes, then suffered the heart attack. A retired farmer and rancher and veteran of World War I, Payne had lived in this area most of his life. He was a member of Velma Baptist Church. A native of Butler, Indian Territory, Payne was born February 14. 1897. Funeral will be at 2 p.m. Friday in the First Baptist Church here. Roy V. Harp, First Christian Church pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Marlow Cemetery under direction of Grantham Funeral Home. Survivors include three sons, Paul James of 102 East Oak; W. L. of Duncan route 4; and Carl Jr. of Comanche. Also three sisters, Mrs.(Virginia Payne) Hoyt Hardin of Duncan route 4 and Mrs.(Vera Payne) John Young and Mrs. (Louise Payne) Charles Birnie, both of Roswell, N. M. and seven grandchildren.

NOTE Headstone in Marlow Cemetery, Sect 10 Blk 10 (Lot 9), states b. 4 Feb 1898 (note in obit 2-14-1897) d. 2-19-1957. Assumed the headstone was correct.

Additional Notes from Kenneth Harvey:

There is an infancy photograph of Carl taken circa 1898 by L. C. Kelley in Duncan, I.T. It is in the possession of Lewis Adair Payne (1997).

All of their three sons, their only three children, were in the Pacific theatre of the 2nd. World War and all three were at the battle of Iwo Jima. All survived even though they were in the thick of the fighting. Dorothy Pattison records another son "Dickie" but this is unlikely.

1903-He was photographed at the age of four with his great-grandparents, John and Pamelia Gentry in Alma, I.T.

1923-Mr. and Mrs. W.M. Gentry of this city (Duncan) celebrated their "Golden Wedding Day" Friday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Payne, a few miles east of this city.

Harry married Caroline "Carrie" Suzanne Cover on 4 Aug 1920 in Stephens County, Oklahoma. Caroline was born on 21 Jan 1902 in Seneca, Nemaha County, Kansas; died on 25 Feb 1984 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Marlow Cemetery, Marlow, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Mary Ethel's mother died when she was just seven years old. She and her sisters Vera and Virginia can be found at the St. Joseph Catholic Boarding School in Chickasha, Grady County at the time of the 1910 census. Her widowed father was still ranching in Duncan, with the help of her brothers.

Mary Ethel had two daughters by her first husband. She married second a Mr. Madison and third J. W. Parker, but had no additional children.

Duncan Banner Sunday, April 25, 1948 Pg. 8 Mrs. Parker, Sulphur, Dies Former Duncan Woman, Daughter of W.W. Payne Mrs. J.W. Parker, 49, Sulphur, former resident of Duncan, died at 5:30 p.m. Friday in a Sulphur hospital after a short illness. The funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. today from the Dunn Funeral Home chapel in Sulphur. Burial will be in the Marlow Cemetery. Mrs. Parker was born near Duncan on September 13, 1899, and lived here all her life until moving to California about 7 years ago. From California she moved to Sulphur. She was the daughter of Walter W. Payne, Stephens county pioneer rancher and business man. She is survived by the widower; two daughters, Mrs. Glen Jones, Weott, Calif., and Mrs. Allen Turner of Roff; two brothers, H.C. Payne and J.E. Payne, both of Duncan; three sisters, Mrs. Hoyt Hardin of Duncan, Mrs. John Young, and Mrs. Charles Birnie, both of Roswell, N.M.

Ethel Parker is buried in Section 10, Block 10, Plot 8, Marlow Cemetery. The date of birth shown on her headstone is different from the date shown in the above obituary. It is assumed that the date on the headstone is accurate.

Mrs. Allen Turner was the informant on her death certificate. Mary Ethel's death certificate indicated that she had been "In this community" for just 10 days, but her address was listed as 724 W. 14, Sulphur. Perhaps the period of 10 days refers to her stay at the DeLay Hospital, where she died of acute cardiac failure due to a coronary occlusion.

(Medical):Hard of hearing

Mary married John "Jack" Percy Benton on 8 Jun 1918 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. John was born on 28 Mar 1894 in Kentucky; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Vol. 6, Stephens County Marriage Book:, Lic. # 642
Vera Payne to Clifford Roberts ? No date, Cancelled ?? Presumably married elsewhere in the years 1921/1922.

Vera P(ayne). Young Rites Tuesday

Duncan Banner Monday, March 26, 1962, Pg. 10 Transcribed by C. R. Strong 11-29-2003

Last rites for Vera Payne Young, a former Duncan area resident who died Friday in Roswell, NM., will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday in Brooks Funeral Chapel. Mrs. Young, a native of the Duncan area, was born on the Payne ranch east of Duncan Aug. 12, 1901. She moved to Roswell eight months ago. Mrs. Young was a member of the First Christian Church here and the widow of John Young, who died here in 1959. Young formerly operated Young's Grocery, east of Duncan. Survivors include a son Clifford Payne Roberts, Lovington, N.M.; and two sisters, Mrs. (Virginia Payne) Hoyt Hardin, Duncan route 4, and Mrs. Louise Birnie, Roswell. Also surviving are two grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Roy Harp, retired First Christian pastor, will officiate assisted by Rev. Bill Masters, pastor. Burial will be by Brooks Funeral Home in Marlow Cemetery.
NOTE Headstone in Marlow Cemetery, Sect 10 Blk 9 (Lot 1), states b. 8-12-1901 d. 3-23-1962

Vera married Clifford R. "Boscoe" Roberts about 1921. Clifford was born about 1902 in Oklahoma; died about 1935. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Vera married John Clay Young about 1937 in New Mexico. John was born on 17 Aug 1900 in New Mexico; died on 4 Oct 1959; was buried in Marlow Cemetery, Marlow, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

"Jan 4th, 1977....I do not hear much from Duncan folks since Grace (Ellen Gentry Payne) and Virginia (Payne Hardin) gone they always kept me up on news. W.T. (Gentry) does call now and then and brought his mother out to see us before she passed away. We did not get to go over to her funeral. Had a terrific ice storm so could not drive...Ruth Pearl Gentry."

Thursday, April 22, 1971

Mrs. Hardin's Rites Saturday

Mrs. Virginia Callie Hardin, 67, of Duncan Rt. 4, died at 10 p.m. Wednesday at her home following a long illness. Mrs. Hardin, born here on Aug. 23, 1903, was a member of the First Christian Church here. On May 2, 1925, she married Hoyt (Pete) Hardin in Walters.

Survivors include her husband of the home; a daughter, Mrs. Frances DuBose of Houston, Tex.; a grandson and a great-granddaughter. Service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in the Don Grantham Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Morgan Sly, pastor of the First Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Duncan Cemetery. Bearers will be Bruce Ridley, Lynn Colbert, Les Corbett, Leonard Ketchum, J.D. Harmeyer and Ed Davis.

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Virginia married Terriel Hoyt Hardin on 2 May 1925 in Walters, Cotton County, Oklahoma. Terriel was born on 12 Oct 1906 in Oklahoma; died on 16 May 1995 in Harris County, Texas; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Known as Dukey. Ken Harvey reports that his mother died when he was only two years old and he was raised by some black servants for a couple of years. Someone else in the family later took him in.


Duncan Banner
Friday, June 5, 1953
Death Comes to J. E. Payne
John Earl Payne, 49, longtime Stephens county farmer-stockman, died in his automobile early this morning while returning from Oklahoma City. Payne complained to his wife of being too tired to drive as they came through Marlow and she relieved him at the wheel. Death, which followed shortly, about 1:30 a.m. was attributed to a heart attack.
Payne, who was born January 3, 1904, in Duncan, lived at his ranch 14 miles east of Duncan.
Survivors are the widow, Gladys; a daughter, Mrs. Virginia Strain of Duncan route 4, and a son, Tommy, 10, of the home address.
Other survivors are a brother, Carl of route 4, and three sisters, Mrs. Virginia Harden of Duncan route 4 and Mrs. Vera Young and Mrs. Louise Birnie, both of Roswell, N.M.
The service will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the West Side Church of Christ with Orrin Otley, minister, officiating. Burial will be in the Duncan Cemetery under the direction of Grantham Funeral Home.

(Courtesy of Lynell Gentry Cordell)

(Research):1930 census Stephens Co. OK ED 9
- pg 272B - sheet 10B - Hope Twp.
189/191
Surginer, Isaac M., MW 40 M, age when first married-20, TX MO MO
Surginer, Lilly M., FW 39 M, age when first married-19, OK US TX
189/192
Payne, John, MW 25 M, age when first married 21 OK MO TX
Payne, Edna, FW 20 M, age when first married 16 OK TX OK
Payne, John W., son, MW 11/2 OK OK OK

John married Edna Surginer on 24 Apr 1926 in Oklahoma. Edna was born about 1910. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Gladys Powell on 13 Oct 1931 in Chickasha, Grady County, Oklahoma. Gladys was born on 22 Mar 1906 in Stephens County, Oklahoma; died on 19 Jan 1995 in Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ken Harvey writes that "Her mother died following her birth and she was taken in by her grandmother Mary E. Mounts. She used to call her "Mama" as she was the only mother she ever knew. Her father always paid her expenses. Her hair was carefully cut off by her father when it was medically advised. She was suffering from a fever or something. It was evidently very beautiful hair and it was preserved. Unfortunately the hair disappeared following her father's second marriage. Her grandmother used to take it out and wash it every year. In those days it was quite valuable. The children greatly resented the second wife who they suspected sold the hair."

She was a 1924 graduate of Duncan, Oklahoma, High School.

Ken shows that she was married to a Charles Bernie, and that they had an infant that was born around 1924 that died at about one year of age.

Her death certificate, viewable online at FamilySearch.org, Texas Deaths, 1890-1976, shows that she was the widow of Charles Birnie. A Charles Birnie (Jr.?) was the informant. Her usual residence was listed as Roswell, New Mexico.

(Medical):See attached sources.

Family/Spouse: Charles Birnie. Charles was born about 1906 in Oklahoma; died in Sep 1961 in New Mexico. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

His name was pronounced Reen.

He was born in the early part of the year 1907 as he was able to boast to his younger brothers that he had been born in Territory days, statehood being conferred in November.

He worked for Marvin Walter Payne for a while in Chickasha Cotton Oil Mill.

His father died, shortly followed by his mother, and he ended up with the responsibility for four younger siblings.



(Research):

Census Listings:

1930 census
Stephens Co. OK King Twp.
ED 69-7 Sheet 13A
205/229
Gentry, Rene H., WF 23 M 21 OK OK OK
Ruth, wife FW 21 M 18 OK TX TX
Rene, Jr., son MW 4/12 S OK OK OK
Cline, Willaid, sister-in-law FW 26 S TX TX TX

Rene married Ruth Marg Cline on 19 Nov 1927 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Ruth was born about 1908 in Oklahoma; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Killed in a one car accident which his Model T went out of control on a dirt road. He was taking someone to see the doctor. The patient being conveyed survived.

Notes:

She was married twice: to Thomas Summerville and to Bob Woods. According to the 1930 Oklahoma census, she was also married to an E. E. Dewey in Duncan.

Family/Spouse: E. E. Dewey. E. was born about 1910 in Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

At the time of the 1930 Oklahoma census, she was living with her sister and brother in law, who were newlyweds.

1930 census Stephens Co. OK King Twp., Duncan city, ED 69-7 Sheet 15A 815 Elm-247/267 Dewey, E.E., MW 20 M 19 OK TN TN
Frankie, wife FW 19 M 18 OK TX TX
Gentry, June, sister-in-law FW 16 S OK

Ada Evening News June 13, 2002

JUNE ALLISON ADA - Services for June G. Allison, 88, Ada, are 2 p.m. Friday at First Baptist Church, the Rev. Tom Willoughby officiating. Burial follows at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to either First Baptist Church at Lawton or First Baptist Church at Ada.

She died June 11, 2002, at a local hospital. She was born June 22, 1913, at Arthur to Frank and Ada Gentry.

She was active in church and was a member of the First Baptist Church at Lawton for over 50 years. She was a volunteer at Southwestern Medical Center at Lawton for more than 20 years. She retired from AAFES.

She and J.P. "Jake" Allison were married Oct. 24, 1931, at Oklahoma City. He died April 6, 1992.

Survivors include a son, Pete Allison, Ada; a brother, John Gentry, Velma; two grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

Becker Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

(Courtesy Lynell Cordell)

June married John Paul "Jake" Allison, Sr. on 24 Oct 1931 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. John was born on 18 Nov 1909 in Decatur, Wise County, Texas; died on 6 Apr 1992 in Lawton, Comanche County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Was staying with his Uncle at the time of the 1930 census.

1930 census Stephens Co. OK East 1/2 of King Twp., ED 69-10 Sheet 3B 46/51

Gentry, Edgar J., MW 49 M 29 TX MS IL
Frances, wife FW 38 M 18 OK TX TX
William T., son MW 19 S OK TX OK
Mary T., dau. FW 18 S OK TX OK
John V., nephew MW 15 OK TX OK

The Duncan Banner

Sunday, July 25, 2004

John Vernon Gentry

March 11, 1915 - July 22, 2004

VELMA - Service for John Vernon Gentry, 89, of Velma, who died Thursday, July 22, 2004, at Duncan Regional Hospital, will be at 2 p.m. Monday at Velma Baptist Church with the Rev. Cody Deevers officiating.

Burial will be at the new Velma Cemetery under the direction of Don Grantham Funeral Home. All visitation will be at the Velma Chapel.

Gentry was born March 11, 1915, in Arthur, to Frank M. and Ada (Jones) Gentry. Both his parents preceded him in death.

Gentry was a retired farmer/rancher, who served as a Stephens County Deputy Sheriff for eight years. He was a member of the Velma Masonic Lodge and Red Red Rose.

On April 16, 1934, John married Allene Riggs in Duncan. He was a member of Velma Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Allene Gentry of the home; three daughters, Agatha June McNeill of Denton, Texas, Aurelia Gail Patton of Ardmore and Frankie Kay Sims of Sulphur; five grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters.

Pallbearers will be Jim Patton, Bob Sims, Perry McNeill, Kent Pogue and Lloyd Ely.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Velma Baptist Church building fund, P.O. Box 249, Velma, OK 73491.

John married Nellie Allene Riggs on 16 Apr 1934 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Nellie was born on 5 Jul 1916 in King, Stephens County, Oklahoma; died on 3 Aug 2016 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Velma Cemetery, Velma, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Oklahoman GENTRY Freeland N., my beloved husband and father of our daughter, Freeland N. Gentry, 77, passed away Dec. 13, 1995 in OKC. He was born Feb. 8, 1918 in Duncan, OK. Freeland was a veteran of WWII, serving in Persia and Belguim. He retired from Wilson Foods in 1980, having worked there for 45 years. Freeland is survived by his wife, Nadine; a daughter, Pamela Baker and husband, Greg Baker; a grandson, Bryant Baker and his wife, Micha; a brother and sister-in-law, John and Allene Gentry; a sister, June Allison; and numerous nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, 1995 at Resthaven Memory Gardens. Resthaven Funeral Home

More About FREELAND NORMAN GENTRY: Burial: 1995, Restaven Memory Gardens, OKC, OK

Family/Spouse: Nadine Elsie Robinson. Nadine was born on 14 Jan 1925; died on 1 Jan 1988 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

William married Toy Thompson on 23 May 1931 in Gatlin, Stephens County, Oklahoma. Toy was born on 2 Mar 1913 in Stephens County, Oklahoma; died on 21 Jun 2006 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

After marriage they lived in Ohio. They had no children. Moved back to Duncan on retirement.

Thelma's obituary from THE DUNCAN BANNER dated 11 June 1996 read:

Mary Thelma Gentry Callahan

Duncan resident Mary Thelma Gentry Callahan, 84, died Sunday, June 9, 1996, at home.

Service will be at 10 am Thursday in First United Methodist Church under the direction of Don Grantham Funeral home with the Rev. Phil Wahl and the Rev. Eldon Moelling officiating.

Mrs. Callahan was born January 13, 1912 in Duncan to the late Edgar and Sara (Kincannon) Gentry. She was married to the late John T. Callahan in 1934. She was a homemaker and a member of the First United Methodist Church. Survivors include a nephew, Charlie Gentry of Duncan; a grandnephew, Chris Gentry of Lawton; a grandniece, Tara Gentry of Duncan; and a sister-in-law, Toy Gentry of Duncan. She was preceded in death by a brother, W.T. Gentry.

Mary married John T. "Cal" Callahan in 1934. John was born on 18 Feb 1897 in Fort Smith, Sebastian County, Arkansas; died in Nov 1968 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ken Harvey indicates she died of the same thing that killed her mother. He might be mistaken, however, as her mother lived until the age ot 89. It was John's first wife that died young. It appears she was married and may have been the mother of the infant Mark Sale Chessman. She died a mere 10 days after he did, possibily from complications of childbirth.

Brewster Co. Cemetery book, Elm Grove Cemetery, Alpine, TX. Lot #1, Block 6-A John William Gentry August 9, 1885 October 6, 1972 Julia Zumwalt Gentry March 14, 1892 March 13, 1981 Peggy Kirby Gentry November 3, 1933 March 17, 1973 Julia Gentry Chessman May 18, 1918 July 27, 1949 Mark Sale Chessman , Infant Son, July 15 - 17, 1949

(Courtesy of Lucy Anderson Lowrie)

Notes:

Texas Death Index: Gentry John William JR 04-21-1991 TRAVIS M

SSDI JOHN W GENTRY 07 Nov 1920 21 Apr 1991 (not specified) (none specified) 449-18-5193 Texas

Family/Spouse: Peggy Anne Kirby. Peggy was born on 30 Nov 1933 in Abilene, Taylor County, Texas; died on 17 Mar 1973 in Houston, Harris County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He was born near the County Line of Stephens and Carter counties, Oklahoma.

An infancy photograph taken at Cobb's Studio in Quanah, Texas, circa 1910 which suggests that Chad, as he was known, was born there? however the 1920 census gives Oklahoma as place of birth. Photograph is in the possession of Lewis Adair Payne (1997).

He was named Claude after his father, Marvin's, great life-long friend Claude Holcombe, who lived in Quanah, TX.

He is not in the Payne/Gentry family reunion photograph of 1927, when he would have been nineteen, because ... could he have already joined the army?

Military Discharge recorded in Stephens County Courthouse Book 22, page 287. Not viewed.

His marriage probably occured before July 21st. 1936 as entered above as his younger brother, Lewis Adair Payne, "lunched at Chad's and Lois's [while in Duncan]. Place certainly run down, don't believe I could live there any more."4 on that date.

Worked for OTASCO in Guthrie c. 1939. 5

1955 ? "M-Sgt. C.C. Payne
Full military funeral services for M-Sgt. Chadwick C. Payne, 47, of 1907 Ash, will be held at 10:30 Tuesday in the new Post Chapel at Fort Sill with Chaplain (1st Lt.) Charlie W. Hargrave and Rev. Russell T. Rauscher, rector of St. Andrew's Episcopal church, officiating. Burial will be in Fort Sill cemetery with Becker Funeral home in charge. Sgt. Payne, a captain in the reserve, died at 3 p.m. Saturday at the family home apparently of a heart attack. He had just been released from the hospital on a 24 hour pass at the time of his death."6

1998 ? Lewis Adair Payne, 84, ... ... ... died died Tuesday, 18 Aug. 1998, at Stillwater Medical Center [OK] .... ... ... He was predeceased by two brothers, Claude Chadwick Payne and Marvin Walter Payne and one sister Mary Olive Thompson. Survivors include his wife of fifty-five years, Lunora; two daughters; Robin White of Joplin, Mo and Penny Harvey of Glencoe, OK; and his two grand-sons Bracken White of San Francisco, Ca and Gentry White of Columbia, Mo and grand-daughter Anne Marie Busse of Joplin, Mo. ... ... ...7

Claude married Lois Macel Reed on 24 Dec 1935 in Comanche County, Oklahoma. Lois was born on 30 Jan 1917 in Gage, Ellis County, Oklahoma; died on 17 Oct 2004 in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mary married Robert Andrew Thompson about 1941. Robert was born on 30 Oct 1897; died on 4 Mar 1986 in Burnet County, Texas; was buried in Fairview Cemetery, Pampa, Gray County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Lewis was named after David Lewis Adair who was dating a fellow resident of his parent's rented house (corner of 10th and Main, Duncan, OK.). David was so pleased when he was told falsely by the girl that the new baby was being named after him that he purchased a pair of shoes for the child. The gift was gratefully accepted. The name was probably shortened as there was a David L. Payne well known in Oklahoma history (a Yankee captain boomer involved in scandal).

1932 - Attended Ardmore High School.

1933 - In January, he moved to Lefors, Texas, to live with his aunt Pearl for the rest of the academic year. He went to the local High School. He was described on arrival as coming "from Ardmore with a fine [report] card." He immediately became a reporter on the school newspaper 'The Pirate' and gained a schoolwide reputation as a poet and orator.

1934-Graduated from Duncan High School.

1936-8 Began a daily journal which he was to regularly write up for one year. Went to work with a Tulsa barnstormer, Earl Field, and learned aircraft engines on the job. He earned about five dollars a week. He was living with his parents in Duncan.

1940 - Ground Instructor's Certificate # 41961-40 issued 10th October 1940.

1941-- Started teaching at Oklahoma A & M College. Aircraft mechanics certificates #M-64172-41 issued 7 April 1941

1943-45 Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor for Government Flight School, Stillwater, Oklahoma. In 1945, Lewis, his wife Lunora, and their oldest daughter, Robin were living at 511 Hester Street.

1945-46 Self employed, buying and selling surplus wartime aircraft. In the June 7, 1998 Stillwater NewsPress, Steve Clark wrote that for a short time right after World War II, Stillwater had its own "air force...the warplanes-475 bombers and fighters began arriving at Searcy Field in 1945 to be parked until the government could figure out how to dispose of them...All 475 planes were bought by one man: Paul Mantz, the famous air racer and movie stunt pilot who died in the 1960s during the filming of THE FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX....Mantz paid $55,426 for the whole batch, making most, if not all of his money back by draining the planes's fuel tanks and selling the thousands of gallons of 100-octane gasoline. He kept 12 of the warbirds for himself...Most of the leftovers were sold to a scrap dealer from Wichita, though a few others escaped destructions..." Lewis Payne purchased one of the seven P-51 Mustangs in partnership with another man. At some stage his partner crashed and was killed. Lewis turned his share to the insurance money over to the grateful widow...In 1988 there are 51 of these aircraft still flying and each is worth about hald a million dollars.

1946-Pilot certificate #466435 issued on 19 March 1946

1946-1950 Instructor aircraft mechanic

1950-1952 Quality Control Inspector for Convair Aircraft, Fort Worth, Texas.

1952-61 Aircraft electrical shop supervisor, Arabian-American Oil Company, Saudi Arabia.

1961-1964 Started a retail liquor business in Stillwater, Oklahoma. This was not a success in a town where few people drank.

1964-1965 Downtown Airport, Oklahoma City.

1965-1968 Engineer for Philco-Ford Corporation, Fort Benning; Seychelles; Green Hill; Thailand; Vung Tau, Vietnam.

1968- Maintenance Supervisor, Swan Rubber Company, Stillwater, Oklahoma.

1970-1971 Field Engineer with Philco Ford, worked in Taiwan (9 months) and Iran (6 months) erecting still towers.

Obituary

"Lewis Adair Payne, 84 was a longtime breeder of Arabian horses in addition to being an aircraft mechanic. He was also a retired expatriate engineer.

He died Tuesday, 18 August 1998, at Stillwater Medical Center. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Strode Funeral Home. Private intermment and service will be at a later time in Duncan.

Payne was born March 15, 1914, in Duncan, to Marvin Walter Payne and Grace Ellen Gentry; both the children of Oklahoma Pioneers. He married Lunora McWethy in 1943. She is the daughter of William Meade McWethy and Ethel Arretha Phenis both formerly of Stillwater.

In the last 37 years of his life, Lewis devoted himself to the breeding of Arabian horses in the Stillwater area. His objective was achieve classical perfection in both body type and movement. His artist's eye later resulted in national recognition from a minority interested in the preservation breeding of this fine horse-celebrated by the 4th century B.C. Greeks in the marble statuary of the Parthenon frieze. At considerable cost to him he did not allow the untutored requirements of the market to damage the historic bloodlines of his horses. For a long time he stood alone.

Originally an aircraft mechanic in the later barnstorming days, Lewis was to instruct students in aircraft maintenance for the National Defense Training School during WWII at Searcy Field, the Stillwater airport. From there he spent nine years with his young family in Saudi Arabia working for Aramco. He later became an engineer for Philco-Ford with whom he worked all over the world.

He was a man who expanded his formal university classes with very extensive reading and travel. He last journeyed around the world at the age of 80. His curiousity was wide and his interests were cosmopolitan.

He was predeceased by two brothers, Claude Chadwick Payne and Marvin Walter Payne and one sister, Mary Olive Thompson. Survivors include his wife of fifty-two years, Lunora; two daughters; Robin White of Joplin, Missouri and Penny Harvey of Glencoe, OK; and two grandsons Bracken White of San Francisco, CA and Gentry White of Columbia, MO and grand-daughter Anne Marie Busse of Joplin, Mo.

Memorials may be made to the Stillwater Airport Memorial Museum."

Lewis's ashes were buried on a hill, under an oak tree, with a view of Hell Creek below. The burial site was on the land his grandfather Sam homesteaded and where he himself grew up during his teenage years. There was a brief informal religious ceremony conducted by son-in-law Tom White. Afterwords a picnic was served at the East Wing of the Stephens County Fairgrounds.

(The above is courtesy of Kenneth and Penny Harvey)

Lewis married Lunora McWethy on 8 May 1943 in Pawnee, Pawnee County, Oklahoma. Lunora (daughter of William Meade McWethy and Ethel Arretha Phenis) was born on 10 Feb 1911 in Lorena, Beaver County, Oklahoma; died on 8 Mar 1999 in Stillwater, Payne County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Stillborn. Not listed by his mother in her listing of her four surviving children, hence exact date unknown.

Notes:

Known as "Snort" from the noise he used to make as a baby when feeding.

He was a teacher in Cushing, Oklahoma for a long time. He read widely. Marvin later had a job working with the Indian community.

He liked Pow wows and "good" music. His favorite cigarette was Camel, cigar White Owl, drink Gin, sport football, and his favorite authors were the poets Byron and Whitman.

He was 54 when he died. The funeral services were held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Andarko. His pall bearers were Joe Mayfield, Oral Jackson, Glenn Payne, Ed Monasco, Windell Haley and Homer Strong.

Marvin married Willadine "Deana" Myers on 29 Jan 1950 in Apache, Caddo County, Oklahoma. Willadine was born on 28 Jul 1926 in Oklahoma; died on 28 Nov 1993 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Ruth married Larkin Smith Daugherty before 1935. Larkin was born about 1908 in Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He was called Howell, rather than Emory, which was what his father was called.

His certificate of birth shows that 3 children had been born to his parents, including his birth. His parents were listed as being from Arthur, Oklahoma, and ages 24 and 22. His father was a farmer, and mother a housewife.

Emory was shown as being widowed at the time of his death. His occupation was listed as Stone Mason. The informant was Bernice Leftwich.

Emory married Nellie Ruth Sanders on 27 Apr 1938 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. Nellie (daughter of William Jasper Sanders and Tressie Thelma Cole) was born on 4 Apr 1923 in Boswell, Choctaw County, Oklahoma; died on 24 Mar 1995 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma; was buried in Resthaven Memory Gardens, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mary married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mary married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mary married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Military marker, inscribed with a cross and "2nd Lt US Army"

Linked ot Olivette Parsons-Mondie, Beloved Wife, 9 July 1925-24 Oct 1997.

Notes:

Social Security Death Index
Name: Ernest King
SSN: 526-01-6927
Last Residence: 73521 Altus, Jackson, Oklahoma, United States of America
Born: 17 Aug 1907
Died: Nov 1985
State (Year) SSN issued: Arizona (Before 1951 )

Notes:

Bryan Patterson shows that he married Mildred MARTIN.

Notes:

When he registered for the draft during World War II, he was not currently employeed, and was shown as being 5'9" tall, 165 pounds, with Brown hair and eyes. Nearest relative was J. H. Willamson.

His FindAGrave memorial page has a photo of his military marker. It is engraved with a cross and:

James T. Williamson
T Sgt US Army Air Force
World War II
May 30, 1920 Jan 14, 1997

James married Lucille Powers on 26 Jul 1944 in Edinburg, Hidalgo County, Texas. Lucille was born on 20 Nov 1924 in McRae, White County, Arkansas; died on 4 Apr 2019 in Denton, Denton County, Texas; was buried in Roselawn Memorial Park, Denton, Denton County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Wise Co. Messanger
Sunday, March 29, 2009

Guinn Thomas 'Barney' Williamson 1923-2009

Funeral for Guinn Thomas "Barney" Williamson, 85, of Decatur was to be at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 28, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with the Revs. Johnny Irish and Roy Spore officiating. Burial was to follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Williamson died Thursday, March 26, 2009, in Bridgeport.

Born Dec. 7, 1923, in Decatur to Homer and Ruth (Taylor) Williamson, he married Margaret Douglas Usry Feb. 24, 1979, in Decatur. He graduated from Texas Tech with a chemical engineering degree and was vice president for Ingersoll-Rand of Houston. He was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur and was a member of the Wise County Council for Alcohol and Drug Abuse.

He was preceded in death by two sons, Wayne and Scott Williamson.

He is survived by his wife; two sons, John Tally and wife, Cathy, of Decatur and Rick Tally and wife, Carol, of Fort Worth; a daughter, Sharon Cox and husband, Danny, of Arlington; three grandchildren, Jennifer Vaughan and husband, Gabe, of Little Elm, Jason Tally and wife, Crystal, of Decatur and Chris Courtright of Fort Worth; two great-grandchildren, Alexis and Ethan Tally of Decatur; and a niece and nephew.

Pallbearers were to be Dwight Reeves, Gary Shelton, Mickey Doyle, Mike McQuiston, Ronnie Walker, Chuck Heaberlin, Jeremy House and Gordon Hofstra.

(Courtesy of Lynell Gentry Cordell)

Guinn married Margaret Douglass Usry in Feb 1979. Margaret was born on 26 Sep 1924 in Waxahachie, Ellis County, Texas; died on 10 Jun 2014 in Decatur, Wise County, Texas; was buried in Oaklawn Cemetery, Decatur, Wise County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Her Texas Birth Certificate listed her parents as Homer Williamson and Ruth Taylor, both born in Wise County. Her father's occupation was listed as R.F.D. Service. M. Post.

She was shown as the third of three living children born to Ruth.

Lou married Dorcell Young on 1 Jun 1947 in Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas. Dorcell was born on 28 Apr 1925 in Carlton, Hamilton County, Texas; died on 6 Jul 1996; was buried in Roselawn Memorial Park, Denton, Denton County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Fred William Bushell. Fred was born on 19 Nov 1915 in Texas; died on 15 Nov 1966 in Lubbock County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

College of Arts and Sciences
Alumni Appreciation Day honorees (didn't find a date)
Engineering Technology
Dr. Merrill D. Williamson
Argyle, TX - BS 1947; MS 1952
Professor Emeritus from UNT. Dr. Williamson was also head of the Industrial Education Department at Abilene Christian University from 1962 to 1986, Industrial Education Coordinator at Southwest Mississippi Junior College and Visiting Professor at Iowa State University, Texas A&M University and the University of Northern Colorado.

Dr. Williamson has received the Distinguished Service Award and Distinguished Leadership Award from the Texas Industrial Arts Association, the Teacher Educator of the Year Award from the Texas Council on Industrial Arts Teacher Education and was inducted into the Hall of Honor for the Association for Texas Technology Education.

The North Texan Online
University of North Texas.

Merrill Delwin Williamson ('47, '52 M.S.), Denton, Professor Emeritus of industrial arts, 1962-1984. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, he received his bachelor's and master's degrees from North Texas and his doctorate from the University of Missouri. Before joining North Texas, he taught at several schools and colleges, including Southwest Mississippi Junior College, the Dallas ISD and Abilene Christian College. He served as executive secretary and president of the Texas Industrial Arts Association and also served on the state Child Welfare Board and was active in Habitat for Humanity.

University of North Texas Bulliten Board, Feb. 11, 2005 (online)

Obituary:
MERRILL DELWIN WILLIAMSON, 85, Professor Emeritus of industrial arts who worked at North Texas from 1962 to 1984, died Dec. 10 in Denton. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, he received his bachelor's degree in 1947 and master's degree in 1952 from North Texas, then earned his doctorate at the University of Missouri in 1958. He taught at several schools and colleges before joining North Texas, including Southwest Mississippi Junior College, the Dallas ISD and Abilene Christian College. He was a member of many organizations, including Phi Delta Kappa, the Texas State Teachers Association, the Texas Industrial Arts Association and the American Council on Industrial Arts Teacher Education. He served as executive secretary and later as president of the TIAA. He also served on the state Child Welfare Board and was active in Habitat for Humanity. Survivors include five sons, Byron, Greg, Tim, Scott and David Williamson, professor of sociology at UNT; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Celia Williamson, associate professor of rehabilitation, social work and addictions and special assistant to the provost, is his daughter-in-law. A funeral service was held Dec. 14 at Singing Oaks Church of Christ in Denton. Burial was at Roselawn Cemetery.


(Above courtesy of Lynell Gentry Cordell)

Family/Spouse: Ruth Marie Gage. Ruth was born on 21 Jan 1923 in Sycamore, Wise County, Texas; died on 8 Aug 2002 in Denton County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Wise Co. (TX) Messenger, October 4, 2001

Calvin Weaver Williamson Jr. 1933-2001

Service for Calvin Weaver Williamson Jr., 68, of Decatur was Wednesday, Oct. 3, at Coker Funeral Home Chapel. John Featherston officiated, assisted by Marcus Brecheen. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur. Williamson died Monday, Oct. 1, 2001, in Decatur. Born Sept. 9, 1933, in Laredo, he was the owner and operator of an auto repair business. He married Cleva Lou Griffin on July 23, 1953, in McAllen. He was a member of the Central Fellowship Church of Christ in Decatur, Masonic Lodge No. 779, Toastmasters International and the Off 380 Players. He graduated from Texas A&M University in 1977. He is survived by his wife, Lou Williamson of Decatur; four sons, Calvin Williamson III, Carl Williamson and Curt Williamson, all of Decatur, and Cevin Williamson of Dallas; a daughter, Cassandra Williamson Byrd of Decatur; 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers were to be Cevin, Carl and Calvin Williamson III, Robby and Bob Brooks, Charles Whitaker and Curt Williamson.

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Both his double grave marker and his footstone are shown on his Find A Grave memorial page.

His footstone is engraved with a masonic emblem, and:

Calvin Weaver Williamson Jr
September 9, 1933-October 1, 2001
Husband, Father, Teacher, Mechanic

His funeral record lists the full names of his wife and parents, as well as his cause of death.

Calvin married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Duncan Eagle Thursday, November 29, 1935 James Gentry Will Head DeMolay Club-- James Gentry was elected master councilor of the Duncan DeMolay Chapter at the annual election of officers Tuesday night. Hudson Coombs was named senior councilor and Bill Robinson was elected to the junior councilorship. Two pledges, Alton Askins and Earl Fisher were given final initiation degrees. Other officers will be appointed soon.

James E. 'Jim' Gentry January 12, 2006

James E. (Jim) Gentry, 90, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2006, in Wichita Falls.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 13, 2006, at First Christian Church of Wichita Falls with Dr. David Hartman officiating. Entombment will follow at the Crestview Memorial Park Mausoleum. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hampton Vaughan Crestview.

Jim was born on June 3, 1915, in Duncan, Okla., to Arthur and Myrtis Gentry. On Feb. 28, 1942, Jim married Alma Melissa Givens. He served in the U.S. Army in World War II in Europe. He continued his military service in the Army Reserve attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel. He founded Jim Gentry Lumber Company in November 1965. He operated the business for 30 years before retiring in 1995. He served as President of the Lumberman's Association of Texas and also as President of Southwest Rotary receiving the Paul Harris Fellow. He was a member of First Christian Church for 49 years and served as a Deacon and Chairman of the Property Department.

Survivors include his wife, Alma Gentry; sons, Jimmy Gentry and wife Sharon, Fred Gentry and wife Susie, and Danny Gentry all of Wichita Falls; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Marie Sanders of Corpus Christi, Texas, Mary Helen Newton and husband Leland of Ada, Okla., and Dorothy Jeanne Eldridge of Shreveport, La.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2006.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Wichita Falls or First Christian Church of Wichita Falls

http://www.timesrecordnews.com/trn/local_obituaries/article/0,1891,TRN_5786_4381359,00.html

James married Alma "Lou" Melissa Givens on 28 Feb 1942. Alma was born on 1 Sep 1918 in Ninnekah, Grady County, Oklahoma; died on 15 Jan 2010 in Wichita Falls, Wichita County, Texas; was buried in Crestview Memorial Park Mausoleum, Wichita Falls, Wichita County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Personal Mention (14 December 1917 DUNCAN BANNER)

"Assistant Postmaster and Mrs. Gentry are entertaining a fine girl at their home, the little miss making her appearance Saturday." (Note: This article refers to Arthur Lamoyn Gentry and wife Myrtis Burch Gentry, parents of Myrtis Marie Gentry. She was born December 8, 1917).

Obituary
M. Marie Gentry Sanders
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas ? Former Duncan, Okla., resident M. Marie Gentry Sanders, 90, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away Thursday, April 3, 2008, in Corpus Christi.Memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Friday, April 18, in Don Grantham Funeral Home Chapel in Duncan with Dr. Scott Fenton presiding. Inurnment will be in Duncan Cemetery. There is no visitation at the funeral home.Marie was born Dec. 8, 1917, in Duncan, to Arthur L. and Myrtis Gentry. She grew up in Duncan, and married her high school sweetheart, Bob Sanders. After raising three children, she and Bob moved to Houston and then to Pearland, Texas. Marie retired from the Houston Shriners Hospital for Children in 1990 after 23 years of dedicated service as the director of building services.Survivors include a son, Phil Sanders Sr. and wife, Patricia, of Kingman, Ariz.; a daughter, Yolanda Hobbs and husband, Rick, of Corpus Christi; a daughter-in-law, Ann Sanders of Austin, Texas; four grandsons: Rob Sanders and wife, Melanie, Steve Sanders, and Phil Sanders Jr. and wife, Teresa, all of Austin, and Adam Stoner of Corpus Christi; three granddaughters: Suzanne Vaughan and husband, Mark, of Austin, Desiree Hankins and husband, Charlie, of San Antonio, Texas, and Sabra Thornburg of Phoenix, Ariz.; two sisters: Mary Helen Newton and husband, Leland, of Ada, Okla., and Dorothy Jeanne Eldridge of Shreveport, La.; and five great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband of 65 years, Robert P. Sanders Jr.; a son, Robert P. Sanders III; and a brother, James E. Gentry.

Published in The Duncan Banner from 4/16/2008 - 4/18/2008

A nearly identical obituary was also published in the Corpus Christi Caller Times. The Corpus Christi paper further reported that a memorial service was to be hald at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2008 at the Memorial Funeral Home, Holly chapel, and that interment would be held at a later date at Duncan Cemetery, Duncan, Oklahoma.

(Courtesy of Lynell Gentry Cordell)

Family/Spouse: Robert Perry Sanders, Jr.. Robert (son of Robert Perry Sanders, Sr. and Electa Smith) was born on 9 Sep 1913 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; died on 22 Feb 2001 in Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Texas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ada ? Services for Mary Helen Newton, 93, of Ada, formerly of Duncan are 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Criswell Funeral Home Chapel; Dr. Scott Fenton will officiate. A Committal Service will be 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Duncan Municipal Cemetery in Duncan.

Mrs. Newton died Thursday, April 17, 2014, at her home. She was born July 3, 1920, in Duncan to Arthur L. and Myrtis Birch Gentry. She graduated from Duncan High School and attended business college.

She married Leland Newton Oct. 10, 1981. Mrs. Newton had been employed with the USDA Soil Conservation Service, the General Motors Company in Oklahoma City and later, Todd Construction Company in Ada. She was also a homemaker and a member of the First Baptist Church.

Survivors include her husband, Leland Newton, of the home; two daughters, Barbara Fischer and her husband Gary of Denton, Texas, and Judy Fenton and her husband Scott of Plano, Texas; a sister, Dorothy Jean Eldridge of Shreveport, La.; and her grandchildren, Matthew Fischer and wife Lauren, John Fischer and wife Julie, Jessica Fenton, Jason Fenton and Seth Fenton; and two great grandchildren, Caleb Fischer and Grant Fischer.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, James Gentry; and a sister, Marie Sanders.

Bearers will be John Fischer, Matt Fischer, Jason Fenton, Seth Fenton, Gary Fischer, and Scott Fenton.

www.adanews.com
Published 19 Apr 2014

Family/Spouse: Roy L. "Pete" Winters. Roy was born on 12 Aug 1925 in Oklahoma; died on 22 Apr 1996 in Elmore City, Garvin County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mary married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

"Dorothy Jeanne and Jim Eldridge of Ruston, La."

Shreveport, LA. Dorothy Jeanne Gentry Eldridge, formerly of Ruston, went home to be with our Lord on May 4, 2014. A celebration of her life will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at 2:00 PM at Kilpatrick Funeral Home in Ruston, Louisiana.

amily Visitation will be at 1:00 PM prior to the service. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Ruston.

Dorothy Jeanne was born on October 1, 1923 in Duncan, Oklahoma, the youngest of four children, to Arthur LeMoyne and Myrtis Gentry. On January 16, 1943, Dorothy Jeanne (Dot) married James Eugene Eldridge while he was stationed at Coleman, Texas in Cadet Training School. After the war, Dot and Jim settled in Texas, Arkansas, and finally Ruston Louisiana, where they reared their 3 children. Dot moved to Shreveport, Louisiana in 1998 after the death of her husband to be closer to her children and grandchildren.

Dot's relationship to God and her service to Him were most important in her life. She spent her time visiting people in nursing homes, taking care of children in church nursery, working in vacation bible school and taking mission trips with members of her church. Friends and family knew of her kindness and gentleness. She was a dedicated wife and mother, and found great joy in being with her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, her mother and father, sisters: Marie Sanders and Mary Helen Newton; brother: James Gentry; and precious great grandchildren: Wade, Melissa, Olive and Noah. Left to love and cherish memories of her are her children: Kandy McEachern and husband Darrell, Bill Eldridge and wife Connie, and Betsy Ebarb and husband Danny; grandchildren: Phillip McEachern and wife Robin, Meredith Guice and husband William, Elizabeth Cobb and husband Chris, Billy Eldridge and wife Brandy, Daniel Eldridge and wife Shannon, Joshua Eldridge, Sarah Ebarb and Christina Ebarb; great grandchildren: Arden Guice, Aubrey Guice, Abram Guice, Clara Cobb, Allie Cobb, Hava Eldridge and Liam Eldridge; and Jeni Eldridge.

Church was an important part of Dot's life. Memorials in her honor may be made to Cook Baptist Church in Ruston, Broadmoor Baptist Church in Shreveport or Noel Methodist Church in Shreveport.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/shreveporttimes/obituary.aspx?pid=170921895#sthash.ffkNm5FE.dpuf




Posted on Kilpatrick Funeral Homes website (Courtesy of Lynell Gentry Cordell)

Dorothy"Dot" married James Eugene Eldridge on 16 Jan 1943 in Coleman County, Texas. James was born about 1923; died about 1998. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Lyn Cordell writes that both Harold and Betty were born in a little house on Base Line Road, probably a mile west of Granny and Grandad Gentry's place. About a year after Betty's birth in 1930, they moved on to Granny and Grandad Gentry's place, just south of their home.

Eva Gentry enrolled her son in the Payne School when he was about five years old. She would walk him to school by way of the road, which was 2 or 3 miles. Before she could get back home herself, however, Harold had cut across the fields and was already at their home, waiting for her. It was actually not much shorter cutting across the fields, but Harold was in a hurry to get back home and away from school. He just wasn't ready for a teacher yet! His sister Lyn writes that Wildhorse Creek was in between and that was a big, wild river of water at the time. She imagines her mother would have been worried about her son trying to cross it. So, after a few times of being beat home by her Harold, she just gave up and waited until the next year to enroll him, this time at the Arthur School, which was probably around 1934-1935. Gladys Powell Payne was a new teacher at the school at the time.

Harold worked for the International-Harvester Co. in Duncan for many years. As of 1996, he was mostly retired from the Eddie Johnson Trucking Co. in Ratliff City, Oklahoma.

Obituary
duncanbanner.com

DUNCAN ? Lloyd Harold Gentry, 84, of Duncan, died Wednesday, May 23, 2012, in Duncan. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, May 26 at Eastside Church of Christ, with David Frost officiating. Interment will follow in Duncan Cemetery under the direction of Don Grantham Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Lloyd was born May 8, 1928, in Duncan, the son of Delbert "Bud" and Eva Leona Blue Gentry. He married Reba Leavelle Mitchell Aug. 18, 1956, in Wichita Falls, Texas. She preceded him in death Feb. 23, 1999.

He worked as a truck mechanic for 36 years at Green Merrill Truck Company and later at Eddie Johnson Crane and Equipment Service. He was also a longtime member of the Eastside Church of Christ.

He is survived by two sons, Harold Brant Gentry and Blane Edwin Gentry, both of Duncan, and a sister, Lynell Cordell and husband Glen, also of Duncan.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents, Bud and Eva, his wife, Reba and a sister, Betty Jean Daniels.

Pall bearers will be Dale Towell, Mike Bilbrey, Dale Bragg, Bill Nelson, Gerald Kierbow and Tommy Anthony. Honorary bearers will be members of the Discussion Sunday School Class.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Tipton Children's Home at P.O. Box 370 Tipton, OK 73570.

Online condolences may be made at www.granthamfuneralhomes.com.

Lloyd married Reba Leavelle Mitchell on 18 Aug 1956 in Wichita Falls, Wichita County, Texas. Reba was born on 22 Sep 1935 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; died on 23 Feb 1999 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Duncan Banner - Dec. 19, 1991 Betty Jean Daniels Betty Jean (Gentry) Daniels, 60, Duncan Rt. 3, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 1991, at home. Service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in Carter-Smart Funeral Home Chapel with Roger Schwinn officiating. Burial will be in Duncan Cemetery. Mrs. Daniels was born Dec. 28, 1930, in Velma. She was retired from Halliburton and was a member of Velma Church of Christ. On June 10, 1949, she married G.W. 'Pete' Daniels in Velma. Survivors include her husband of the home; a son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Judy Daniels of Duncan; a daughter, Angela Daniels of the home; her mother, Eva Gentry of Duncan; a brother, Harold Gentry of Duncan; a sister, Lynell Cordell of Kingston; and three grandchildren, Jeramie, Ashlie and Travis. Bearers will be Brant Gentry, Blane Gentry, Roger Cordell, Roy Cordell, Mike Tomlinson and Rusty Morland. Memorial contributions for cancer research may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Betty married George "Pete" Mansel Daniels on 10 Jun 1949 in Velma, Stephens County, Oklahoma. George was born on 2 Dec 1924 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; died on 1 Jul 2007 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Member of the Chickasaw Nation. Her father, Thomas Hamilton Payne (Original Enrollee #3686) was a Chickasaw by blood.

It is believed she was named after the popular Scottish Folk ballad, Annie Laurie. Her nickname, "Roonie" was also a product of popular culture, based on the Little Annie Rooney comic strip that ran during the depression.

Anna Laura was baptized in 1922, her sponsors being her Aunt and Uncle, Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Sparks. According to a brochure from the Church of the Assumption, Duncan, commemorating Religious Heritage Day on Sunday, June 28, 1992, "Both sides of Anna Laura (Roonie) Strong's family history intertwines in their settlement of Duncan before the 1900's. Her Uncle John and Aunt Annie Sparks O'Neil's home, presently the Phil Leonard home, was used regularly for masses before the first church was built in 1909. Roonie attended the first parochial school, "Joan of Arc", which had been built by one of the outstanding parish priests, Fr. J.A. Garvey, and run by Sisters of Divine Providence."

After their father left home, Bessie had trouble making enough money to support her family. When Anna Laura was 15, she and Fay were sent to Saint Elizabeth Academy, an Orphanage and Boarding School for Native American Girls in Purcell, Oklahoma. Anna Laura remembers the long train ride being frightening. Although the distance from Duncan to Purcell was not particulary long, it was a freight train and made numerous long stops. It was very late at night before they finally arrived, and they had long since finished the sack lunch their mother had made them. Lois joined them at the school when she was old enough. Both Anna Laura and Faye graduated from St. Elizabeth's. Lois returned to Duncan to live with Anna Laura, and she graduated from Duncan High School.

Anna Laura's graduation was on the 26 of May in 1931. Her diploma was signed by Rev. Jacques Van Castel, Sister Adelhelma, Sister Theresa and Sister Lena. The nuns were members of the Sisters of St. Francis. Sister Lena had arrived at St. Elizabeth between 1889 and 1890.

Sisters Adelhelma and Lena were from Germany. Sister Lena worked in the kitchen and Roonie had been assigned to help her. She recalls the day Sister Lena accidentally dropped her rosary while cooking and loudly proclaimed, "Mein Lord and Mein Gott! I dropped my Jesus in the Soup." Sister Lena presented this same rosary to Anna Laura as a graduation gift, in memory of the work and faith they had shared. An article about the history of this school is contained under the "research" tab of these notes.

When Roonie's children were all school age, she returned to work. She was the head cook at first the parochial school in Duncan, and later at Duncan Junior High School. She held this position for approximately 20 years.

Roonie and her sisters Fay and Lois remained close friends throughout their adult lifes, often traveling together.

The Duncan Banner, Sept. 16, 2004 Anna Laura 'Roonie' Payne Strong

Anna Laura "Roonie" Payne Strong, 90, of Duncan, died Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2004, in her home. Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Saturday in Assumption Catholic Church with the Rev. Victor John officiating. Burial will be in Duncan City Cemetery, under direction of Don Grantham Funeral Home.

A rosary service will be held at 7 p.m. Friday in the funeral home chapel. Roonie was born Oct. 23, 1913, in Alma (sic) to Thomas H. and Bessie Gentry Payne. She married Homer Richard Strong on Oct. 23, 1931 (sic), in Waurika. He preceded her in death on Sept. 19, 1990.

Roonie was a graduate of St. Elizabeth's Academy in Purcell in 1931. She later attended Duncan Business School. She was employed by the Duncan Public School System for 28 years before retiring.

She was a member of Assumption Catholic Church, where she sang in the choir for 60 years and was a member of the Ladies' Altar Society. She was also a member of the Fatima Study Club and was a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation.

She was a wonderful homemaker, wife, mother and grandmother.

Survivors include five sons and spouses: Charles and Pat Strong of Edinburg, Texas, Bill and Betty Strong of Yukon, Tom and Vickie Strong of Laveen, Ariz., and John and Brenda Strong, and Paul David and Jane Strong, all of Duncan; a daughter, Caroline Brasher of Duncan; a sister, Lois Marie Payne Hanna of Oklahoma City; 22 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Theresa Marie Rutledge; a great-granddaughter, Alexandra Kathrine Brasher in 1994; and a sister, Fay Pierce Yeager. Bearers will be her grandsons.Memorial contributions may be made to Chisholm Trail Hospice, P.O. Box 2000, Duncan, OK 73534-2000.

(Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

(Research):BELOW IS A TRANSCRIPTION OF AN ARTICLE ABOUT ST. ELIZABETH'S ACADEMY

A PIONEER PASSES
By Mary Jo Turner
Sunday, August 15, 1948
The Daily Oklahoman
D-Three

Purcell, Aug. 14-Historic St. Elizabeth's convent, which for 60 years played a vital part in cultural development of Indian territory and early growth and education of Oklahoma, is closing its doors September 1 for lack of funds.

Founded in February, 1888, one year before Oklahoma was opened to settlement and barely a year after Purcell was established as a junction point on the Santa Fe, it is one of Oklahoma's most famous old schools.

The spacious, roomy, two-storied frame building, set in a grassy plot with a peaceful background of slender poplars, elms and cedars, is still a thing of considerable beauty. For many years it was the only educational landmark in an unsettled area, and the sight of students playing about its grounds, supervised by the black-robed nuns, against the bright southwestern skies, has become familiar to nearly all Oklahomans who have lived here any length of time.

When St. Elizabeth's convent was founded, in 1888, Purcell was a part of the Chickasaw nation of the old Indian territory, and the gateway to the great ranching empire which lay to the west and south. The country then was all pastureland, heavily wooded and a ranch of 10,000 to 20,000 acres was commonplace. Most of the settlers were Chickasaws, but here were also Choctaw families, and a good many white settlers. All were eager to send their children to school and the news that St. Elizabeth's convent had opened in Purcell was welcomed far and wide. Families packed their children and brought them to board and room at the convent, or if there was no space there, boarded them in homes and they attended day school.

Three eager young nuns, all now dead, of the Order of St. Francis, made their way west from Philadelphia and arrived in Purcell on Feb. 14, 1888. They were the late Sister Barbara, Sister Mary Joachim and Sister Patricia. At the time there was under construction a three-room frame building on the same lot where the Benedictine priests had built a one-room church. Sunday services were conducted in the church which on week days was converted into two school rooms by hanging a heavy carpet to form a partition. In one room a Miss Fritch taught the boys, whil in the other room Sister Mary Patricia taught the girls. By November, however, the new three-room frame building was completed and enrolment consisted of 120 pupils. Ages of these pupils ranged from 6 to 18 years. Soon, there were 25 boarders, then 50. The one-room frame building was used for boys.

Money for the grounds, buildings and teachers was paid for by Miss Katherine Drexel of the wealthy Philadelphia Drexel family. She had become interested in educating the Indians through the efforts of Father Vincent Jolly, O.S.B., who taught at the Sacred Heart academy situated in unsettled wilderness in what is now Pottawatomie county. Father Jolly, accompanied by Father William Capital, took turns in coming to Purcell to hold services. Father Jolly told Miss Drexel of the Indian boys and girls who needed educational opportunities, and described the great wilderness, which pioneers were still to conquer. One church was unable to bear the expense. But Miss Drexel could and did for 60 years.

Miss Drexel furnished money for the grounds, buildings and early support, and a new building site was selected in 1891 by the Very Rev. Ignatius Jean, Benedictine priest, while Rev. F. Steven, director of the Indian bureau, gave the plans of the building to Miss Drexel. At her instigation, Archbishop Ryan of Philadelphia designated the Sisters of St. Francis of the Philadelphia Foundation, Mother House in Glen Riddle, Pa., to take charge of the mission. Miss Drexel also offered to pay of the sister's support.

In an area known as Love's pasture, named for the late Robert Love, Purcell's founder, who proved to be very helpful to the new school, ground was broken and the building erected which still stands today. On the second floor near the chapel is a bronze plaque dedicated to the founder, the late Father Vincent Jolly.

In the summers of 1889 and 1890, three more sisters, Sister Valentine, Sister Lena, and Sister Ludemiller joined the little bands of nuns and in 1891, Sister Mary Teresa, who is now the only one of the early group left, came to teach.

Sister Teresa, now the Sister Superior of St. Elizabeth's convent, is 80. She is small of stature, being only 4 feet 9 inches in height and is slender and frail. Born in Philadelphia Ja. 29, 1868, she was an only child of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Caterson, also natives of Philadelphia. In May, 1888, she took her vows at Our Lady of Angels convent at Glen Riddle, Pa., and taught one year in Wilmington, Pa. The death of her mother the next year left her free for her appointment ot the new convent in the Indian territory. On the way to the new town of Purcell, she has two companions, twos sisters who were going to the missions near Pawhuska in the Osage nation. She she came alone from St. Louis and arrived at Purcell on Sept. 4, 1891, just in time to see the ground being broken for the present site.

Government support by which the Indian girls' tuition was paid in part by the government was withdrawn in 1932......(Causing the sisters) to run the institution on practically no income except from Miss Drexel. For some time the sisters kept the girls without government aid from their own slender resources as teachers. Continued maintenance was impossible during these depressing days. This meant that the girls representing the Chickasaw, Choctaw, Cherokee and Pottawatomie tribes as well as others in all probability would be deprived of an eduation.

However, through the mediation of George C. Wells, at that time supervisor of Indian education, Oklahoma district, and Chief Dwight, chief of the Choctaw nation, a contract of 10 was received. But things have changed during the "war" years. There is a scarcity of teachers and enrollment is down. All in all, it seemed best to close the doors.

So historic St. Elizabeth is closing its doors. And good little Sister Superior Teresea will teach no more. She will take a long rest. She would like to spend the rest of her life in Purcell but will go where the church decrees.

(Medical):mtDNA Results (based on test of a child of Anna Laura PAYNE, a direct female descendant of Mary Richardson).

Your Haplogroup and mutations relative to the Cambridge Reference Sequence (CRS) are shown below. A value of CRS indicates no mutations. High resolution (HVR2) results are shown only if you have requested the mtDNAPlus or mtDNA Refine test. If you ordered a Mega mtDNA the Coding Region (CR) will be displayed below.

As you go through your mtDNA results, we strongly encourage you to read the ?u?mtDNA Results Tutorial ?/u? that we have put together in the form of frequently asked questions about mtDNA results.
HVR1 Haplogroup J

HVR1 differences from ?u?CRS
?/u?16069T
16126C
16209C
16265G
16319A

?b?Haplogroup Description?/b? J* Specific mitochondrial haplogroups are typically found in different regions of the world, and this is due to unique population histories. In the process of spreading around the world, many populations-with their special mitochondrial haplogroups-became isolated, and specific haplogroups concentrated in geographic regions. Today, we have identified certain haplogroups that originated in Africa, Europe, Asia, the islands of the Pacific, the Americas, and even particular ethnic groups. Of course, haplogroups that are specific to one region are sometimes found in another, but this is due to recent migration. The mitochondrial haplogroup J contains several sub-lineages. The original haplogroup J originated in the Near East approximately 50,000 years ago. Within Europe, sub-lineages of haplogroup J have distinct and interesting distributions. Haplogroup J* -the root lineage of haplogroup J-is found distributed throughout Europe, but at a relatively low frequency. Haplogroup J* is generally considered one of the prominent lineages that was part of the Neolithic spread of agriculture into Europe from the Near East beginning approximately 10,000 years ago.

Anna married Homer Richard Strong on 23 Feb 1932 in Waurika, Jefferson County, Oklahoma. Homer (son of Walter Winfield Strong and Terezie Rose "Tessie" Soukup) was born on 29 Feb 1908 in Junction City, Comanche County, Oklahoma; died on 19 Sep 1990 in Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma; was buried on 22 Sep 1990 in Duncan Municipal Cemetery, Duncan, Stephens County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Duncan Banner Mar 12, 2002

Dora Fay Pierce Yeager

Dora Fay Pierce Yeager, 87, of Oklahoma City died Thursday, March 7, 2002, in Oklahoma City.

Service was held at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Assumption Catholic Church in Duncan, with the Rev. Donald Wolf officiating. Burial was in the Duncan Cemetery under the direction of Don Grantham Funeral Home. Mrs. Yeager was born on Jan. 30, 1915 , in Duncan to Thomas H. and Bessie Gentry Payne.

She married Edward R. Pierce, who preceded her in death in 1951. She then married George Yeager in 1965. He preceded her in death in 1977.

She was a homemaker and also worked as a bookkeeper.

She was a member of Assumption Catholic Church. She is survived by one daughter, Lynn Moroney of Oklahoma City; two sisters, Anna Laura Strong of Duncan and Lois Payne Hanna of Oklahoma City. She was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas H. Payne III; a sister, Patty Gay Payne; and her parents. Grandchildren include Siobhan Moroney of Highland Park, Ill.; and Tracy Moroney of Studio City, Calif. Great-grandchildren are Michael Moroney and Anne Green of Highland Park, Ill.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas H. Payne III; and a sister, Patty Gay Payne.

(Transcription courtesy of Lynell Cordell).

Avid genealogist, and gathered much of the information contained in these files.

Dora married Edward Roscoe Pierce on 27 Mar 1935 in Jefferson County, Oklahoma. Edward (son of James William Mills Pierce and Alice Emaline Tussey) was born on 15 May 1909 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma; died about 1951 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Dora married George Yeager about 1965. George was born before 1915; died in 1977. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Duncan Weekly Banner
Friday, Jan. 19, 1917
Born - To Mr. and Mrs. Tom Payne, east of town, Wednesday, Jan. 17, a fine twelve pound boy. Congratulations are in order.

Thomas was educated in a boarding school/orphanage for Native American boys after his father left the family. It was a different school than that attended by his sisters, whom all attended St. Elizabeth's in Purcell.

Thomas H. Payne, Jr. Chief Petty Officer

Thomas H. Payne, jr. son of Mrs. Bessie Payne, 915 Oak, has been promoted to the rank of chief petty officer in the U.S. Maritime Service. his address now is Los Angeles, California, and he is stationed at west coast ports. Payne attended Duncan High School. He formerly was employed by Lynn COURSEY. (Undated, unreferenced news clipping, courtesy of Fay Payne Yeager).

Information from the California Death Index at Rootsweb.com:

Payne, Thomas Hardrick Mother's Maiden Name: Gentry Born: January 17, 1917 in Oklahoma Died: 4/12/1997 Shasta County, California SSN: 549-01-5512 Age: 80 years

Great nephew Tom Strong recalls that Thomas Payne worked as a butcher in California.

Thomas married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Thomas married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ken Harvey writes that she studied to be an attorney "but married one instead." She worked as a secretary in Oklahoma City.

Attended Saint Elizabeth Academy, an Orphanage and Boarding School for Native American Girls in Purcell, Oklahoma. She graduated from Duncan High School, however, in 1938. She told Lynell Cordell she had only one skirt and two sweaters to wear throughout her entire senior year.

The Duncan Banner - Monday, April 25, 1949 Marlow News - Pg. 5 Miss Lois Marie Payne of Oklahoma City was a guest of Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Gregston Sunday. (Courtesy of Lynell Cordell)

Obituary
Chickasaw Times, January 2014, Page 21

Lois (Marie) Payne Hanna

Lois (Marie) Payne Hanna died November 20, 2013 at the Lakes Nursing Facility in Oklahoma City, after a long struggles with Alzheimer's disease and a short battle with congestive heart failure.

She was born February 10, 1920 to Thomas Hardwick Payne and Bessie Bird Payne at Duncan, Okla. Though her early formative years were spent at St. Elizabeth's School in Purcell, Okla.; and education provided to her from the altruism of the Chickasaw tribe, she graduated from Duncan High School in 1938. Some years later she moved to Oklahoma City where she became a lifelong resident. After the War, she enrolled in the Oklahoma City School of Law (currently OCU) where she met her future husband, James Cullen Hanna. As one relative put it, "she studied to be an attorney, but married one instead." In the early 1960's she secured employment with the architecture firm of Coston, Frankfurt, Short (now Frankfurt Short Brusa) and rose from a secretarial position to retire in the 1990's as a member of the firm's board of directors. It was from this career position that Mrs. Hanna became a long lasting member of Executive Women Incorporated (EWI). Lois served in many capacities during her lengthy membership in EWI including that of president. Association with this organization provided her with the opportunity to travel and cement lifelong friendships. In later life she fondly recalled the places and people she had the pleasure to know.

While her sharp and penetrating mind permitted her to explore a keen interest in myriad of subjects, her main focus was on just a few. Aside from her whole family,---her offspring, her siblings, her sibling's offspring, in-laws and everything in-between---which she cherished above all else, her great passions in life were music, literature, history, Sooner football and all things Oklahoman.

Her enthusiasm for music and above all, opera brought her great happiness. She delighted in being a proud patron of the Oklahoma City Symphony, holding season tickets for more than thirty consecutive years. Last year Mrs. Hanna was honored when the Chickasaw tribe recognized her as a senior member of the tribe and presented her with a brooch.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Hardwick (sic, s/b Hamilton) Payne and Bessie Bird Payne; her husband, James Cullen Hanna; sisters, Anna Laura Strong, Dora Faye Yeager, Patricia Gabriela (Patty Gay) Payne; and a brother, Thomas Hardwick Payne.

She is survived by her three sons, Fred Hanna, Tom Hanna and John Hanna; a daughter-in-law Gabrielle Hanna; grandsons, Brandon Hanna, Travis Hanna, and Cameron Hanna, children of Fred and Gabrielle; and a great-grandson, Jack Hanna, son of Brandon Hanna.

She will be forever remembered for the warm tender kindness that she shined on those that were closest to her and the unique glow of genuine charity with which she embraced all that were lucky enough to be close to her for however momentary.

She will be dearly missed by all those who knew, and therefore, loved her.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, January 2014)

Lois married James Cullen Hanna on 22 Nov 1951 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. James was born on 16 Dec 1925 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma; died on 21 Nov 1990 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Patty Gay died when she was about eight years old. The day before she died, after six weeks of illness, she said to her sister Fay "I am so tired of being tired."

Charles Strong reports that she had a leaky valve in her heart. It would be something fairly easy to fix by today's standards. It might have been something that could have been fixed even in the 1930's, had the family had the resources available to them.

They were quite poor however. Charles reported that money was so tight that one winter Bessie got behind on her utility payments, and the company threatened to cut off their power. Patty's doctor intervened, telling the company that they would be responsible for her death if the power was cut off.

Notes:

Lynell Gentry Cordell found her listing on the SSDI:

U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-Current
Name: Mary G Adair
Born: 21 Mar 1923
Died: 11 Feb 2012
State (Year) SSN issued: Texas (Before 1951)

Ken Harvey writes: One of Mary's daughters was Dianne, who died from cancer at the age of 51 (1944 - 17 March 1995). Dianne had one daughter Lori (?) and two grandchildren. She used to visit Edith Lynell Gentry every year in Oklahoma. Lynell Cordell writes that she also had a son named Mitch Adair.

Notes:

Lives in Garden Grove, California. He has four children. This was his last place of residence as well, according to the Social Security death index.

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

After Don and Patsy divorced, he and his children did not remain in contact. His second wife, Betty, had daughters that he helped raise.

Donald married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Unknown. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]