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Julia A. Melton
A Memorial Mother Melton was born in Augusta county, Virginia, May the 4th, 1815. Her maiden name was Riddle. She was married quite young to David Ruple; and moved to Tazewell county, Ill., November, 1839. Mr. Ruple died Sept. 26th, 1845, leaving her a widow with 6 children. She was married again to Austin P. Melton, September the 13th, 1846. By this union she had 6 children. She was left a widow again by the death of Father Melton, July the 16th, 1877. Of the 12 children, 7 are living; and of about 39 grandchildren there are 29 remaining.
She united with the Methodist church about the time of her last marriage, and was one of their most devoted members for many years. But some years ago, becoming dissatisfied with her baptism, she was immersed Aug. the 9th, 1874, by the writer, an Evangelist of the Christian church. A more devoted, earnest and pure hearted Christian, it has never been my lot to know. She was ever cheerful, kind and tender hearted; her life was one of incessant toil cheerfully performed for her children, whose unwearied attention to her, during her last illness, and their deep grief at her departure, evinces their love and devotion to her. Death had no sting to her, and her only concern was for her son and daughters, exorting them with touching eloquence of faith and love, to meet her in Heaven. God grant that the triumphant faith and peaceful end of their mother may influence them to prepare to meet her in the "Better Land" where death or sorrow will never invade the home circle anymore. Rest in peace dear mother, we hope to meet thee. Contributed by Pam Ross
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