Harrison County, MO Obituaries

Sam  Burr Skinner
October 11, 1876 to June 18,1939

Samuel B., son of Lot H. and Sarah Holliday Skinner was born near Eagleville, Oct. 11, 1876.  He was one of four children.  His brothers and sister were Holliday Grant, Luther and Lily Verona, who with the parents preceded him in death.  Sam grew to manhood one mile southwest of where Hobbs chapel stands.  He attended school at the White Oak district and on March 22, 1900 was united in marriage to Bertha V. Mathes.  To their union were born five children, Preston, Eagleville; Jewell (Mrs. Joseph Eisenbarger), Hatfield; Leo, Thelma (who passed away Feb. 12, at the age of seven years), and Everett, of the home.  These four, with the companion and nine grandchildren, survive.
For two years after their marriage they resided with Father Mathes, who had a short time before been bereft of his companion.  They then moved to their own farm home, where his death occurred.
On June 11, before being stricken at midnight with paralysis, he attended Sunday school at Hobbs chapel, where he had served as superintendent for 20 years; also church services conducted by his pastor.  He enjoyed the noon meal, then made out an order for Sunday school supplies.  At evening church services he conducted the singing.  Thus was his last Sabbath on earth.  He was converted and joined this little hillside chapel he loved so well, in 1900, and for almost two score years had ever been true to the faith.
The spirit of this kind husband and father was wafted back to the one who gave it, leaving his loved ones baffled by this great mystery that has robbed them of their loved one, but the fond memories of a life so full of inspiration will ever be a guiding star to lead them on.
Besides the immediate family he is survived by one half-brother, Seigel Skinner of Eagleville.
Funeral services were June 20, conducted by his beloved pastor, the Rev. W.A. Pollock, assisted by the Rev. Pres Mathes, Clarksville, Mo, and the Rev. W.M. Campbell, Davis City, Ia.  Vocal music was by Mrs. Robert Jones, Lucille Sheeler, Edwin Edwards and Leonard Hale, with Mrs. Ethel Cook at the piano.  Pallbearers were nephews, Bert and Verne Davis, Elmer and Emmett Mathes, Oren Skinner and Donald Edwards.  The floral offering was beautiful and profuse.
Among those from a distance attending the services were B.A. Davis, Tulsa, Okla, Mrs Susan Davis and Mrms. Nathan Swanson, Kingsville, Mo, the Rev and Mrs Pres Mathes, Clarksville, Mo, Mrms. John Mathes, Harper, Kan, Oren Skinner, Wayside, Kan., Mrms. Verne Davis and son and daughter, Eugene and Nada.  Linville, Ia, Mrs. Maude Mathes, Bethany, Maudie and Mildred Wise, Des Moines, Ia., Clarence Mathes, Auburn, Neb., Ed Skinner, Mrs. Ida Brown, Mrms. Mart Taylor and Miss Eva Vail of Bethany.  Interment was at the Hobbs Cemetery.

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: Personal papers of
Jewell Eisenbarger


Sam Skinner
North Harrison News

We regret the serious illnes of our good friend and neighbor, Sam Skinner, who suffered a stroke Sunday night.  Mr. Skinner has not been well for some time, but had seemed to be improving and this stroke came very unexpectedly.  Mrs. Skinner, who has been ill for several weeks, is improving.  Mrs William Davis is at their home caring for them.

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: Personal papers of
Jewell Eisenbarger




Bertha Viola (Mathes) Skinner
1880-1965

Bertha Viola, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Hobbs) Mathes was born Aug. 11, 1880, near Eagleville, Mo. and departed this life Nov. 27, 1965, at the age of 85 years, three months and 16 days at the home of her daughter near Bethany, MO.
Her entire life was spent in Harrison county and at the age of 11 years she was received into the Hobbs Chapel church by the Rev. Kindard.  Bertha was a devoted church worker and was still a member of this church at the time of death.
On March 22, 1900, at the home of her parents,she was united in marriage to Samuel B. Skinner (deceased June 18, 1939) by Rev. Sitton.  To this union five children were born, Preston (deceased March 11, 1945), Jewell, Leo (deceased Aug.18, 1953), Thelma (deceased Feb. 12, 1919) and Everett.
It can truly be said that Bertha lived her life for mankind.  The latch key to the home of Bertha and Sam hung outward and many a one found refuge in their home for loving care.  Although staunch church members and workers, it was their everyday life that caused all to know theirs was deep Christian Faith.
Surviving are Everette, Eagleville, Mo, Jewell (Mrs. Oscar Eisenbarger), Bethany Mo, sister, Lulu Badders, Iola Kan., brother, Clarence Mathes, Lincoln Neb., two loyal devoted daughters-in-law, Nora, Eagleville, and Goldia, Bethany, son-in-law, Oscar (Joe) Eisenbarger, Bethany, 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren many nieces, nephews and friends.
Funeral services were held in Hobbs Chapel church, conducted by Rev. Wilbur C. Denny, assisted by H.G. Carmichael.  Burial in Hobbs cemetery.  At the services Edwin and Gertrude Edwards, Leonard Hale and Lucille Johnson sang "When They Ring Them Golden Bells (duet Leonard and Lucille) and "Bring Them In", quartette, (the latter Bertha sang during her last illness), accompanied on piano by Ruby Petry.
Pall bearers were Carl Shain, Archie Hale, Bob Edwards, Floyd Cook, Robert and Harry Sheets.  Flower bearers were Marilyn Campbell, Nina McIntosh, Wilma Hale, Gertie Edwards, Maxine and Lura Shain.
During her last illness of five months she received tender care by her immediate family and close friends in the home of her daughter near Bethany.

To those who mourn may they be comforted by the following:

"I wouldn't have you grieve today,
Nor weep beside my vacant chair,
Could you but know my daily portion here,
You would, could not wish me there,
Think of me the same, though changed,
Like Him, a joy more rich and strong
Than I had dreamed that any heart could hold
My days are all one glad sweet song.
Sometimes when you are talking to our Lord,
He turns and speaks to me dear hearts,
In that rare moment, you and I__
Are just the distance of a world apart.
And so, my loved ones, do not grieve for me
Around the family board today,
Instead rejoice, for we are one in him,
And so I am not far away."

Relatives from a distance attending services were Oren Skinner and family, Wichita Kan. Mr. and Mrs. Lory Mathes, Harper, Kan. Bob Tilley and family, Lansing, Kan. Mrs Chloe McFarland, Omaha, Neb., Eva Wise, Lamoni, Iowa, Ruby Sharp, Keota, Iowa Mr. and Mrs. Glen Henry Madrid, Iowa, John Thomas and family, Kansas City, Mo., Larry Eisenbarger and family, Grandview, Mo., Mr and Mrs. Hugh McLain, Maryville, MO., Mrs. Pauline Wagers, Van Silkett and family and Ora Eisenbarger and family of St. Joseph.

"Sleep on beloved, sleep and take thy rest.
We loved thee well; but Jesus loved thee best.
Rest, sweetly rest.

Submitted by: Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: personal papers of
Jewell Eisenbarger




Preston Cleo Skinner
10-23-03 to 3-11-45

On this beautiful spring day, as I look out on all the beauty and gladness of life, how sad to think of the going of this loved one.  A sad change in the lives of this family, who one year ago were enjoying the happy springtime together in their little hillside farm home.  There was nothing in the balmy breezes, the warbling of the songbirds, or music of the murmuring brook to tell them of the sorrow they would be called upon to endure 'ere another spring time would greet them.
But alas!  This fond husband and father became ill and within a few months the turning in life's pathway was reached by the soul we all loved so well, and Preston's spirit returned to the God who gave it.
For many weeks there was watching beside a bed of pain each sign of suffering, tearing the hearts of his loved ones all standing ready to supply everything possible to relieve the stricken body.  Then when the finger on the pulse detected no answering throb, they, with tear-dimmed eyes and breaking hearts, could say, "Yes, both physically and mentally were the closing moments of his life peaceful, as he was prepared to go although he loved life and wished to be spared to be with his loved ones.  In the presence of his faithful beloved wife and uncle, the Rev. Pres Mathes (the latter coming from his home at New Bloomfield, Mo., to comfort him in his last hours) he said, "I am ready to go.  I have made peace with my Maker." Near the midnight hour Sunday March 11, 1945, Preston closed his eyes to the scenes of this live and found rest in the arms of his Saviour.
No death occurring in our community ever excited more intense grief, as he was loved by all who knew him.  It was the pleasure of the writer to reside near him a few years, and we can testify that his traits and characteristics were such we can describe him thusly: His life was gentle and the elements so mixed in him, that nature might stand up and say to all the world this was a man."
One admirable trait was the inspiration he found at his fireside.  He and his wife, who was an ideal helpmate, journeyed hand in hand in that sacred place called home, where love and confidence predominated.   His life was an open book and to his family and other loved ones he has left a priceless legacy-- a name above reproach.

Preston Cleo, son of Samuel and Bertha (Mathes) Skinner, was born near Eagleville, Oct. 23, 1903.  He was one of five children.  A sister, Thelma, with the father, preceded him in death.  Those who, with the mother, survive are Leo and Everett, Eagleville, Mo., and Jewell (Mrs. Oscar Eisenbarger), Hatfield, Mo.
Preston grew to manhood in the Hobbs chapel community, attending school at the White Oak district school.  Only July 19, 1925, he was united in marriage with Miss Goldie Willis and they established a home near his birthplace, where their married life of almost 20 years was lived.  Two daughters, Mavadene and Bernita, came to bless their home and their happiness was unalloyed until his health failed.  At first no alarm was felt, but when one skilled physician after another failed to relieve him they realized the seriousness of his condition.
But, all were loathe to accept the verdict.  It seemed incredible that one so beloved could be taken from us.  With Christian fortitude Preston faced the end making all plans for his family's future.
On March 15, in the presence of a large crowd assembled at the Eagleville Methodist church; the Rev. W.A. Pollock, assisted by the much beloved uncle, the Rev. Pres Mathes, and the Rev. A. Lamb, conducted impressive services.  Hymns were sung by Mesdames Ted Joy and Myron Johnston, Roy Lesan and Bob Edwards.  Floral escorts were classmates and close friends of the daughter, Bernita.  These silent offering of love were both profuse and beautiful.  Those laying him to rest in Masonic cemetery were lifetime friends and schoolmates, August Chandler, Carl Shain, Edmond Edwards, Toby Cook, Leonard Hale and V.C. McCoy.  The latter had been his faithful mail carrier past his home many years.
Preston's life of 41 years, four months and 19 days is over, but the influence for good he left behind will ever remain with his loved ones.
"Sleep on beloved, sleep and take thy rest.
We loved thee well; but Jesus loves thee best.
Rest, sweetly rest"

A devoted friend:
Myrtle Richardson

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: Personal Papers of
Jewell Eisenbarger 



THELMA BEA SKINNER
Augst 4, 1912-February 1919



Pictured above: Thelma Skinner and brother Everett

Thelma Bea Skinner, youngest daughter of S.B. and Bertha Skinner, was born on the home farm two miles west of Eagleville Aug. 4, 1912 and died at her home Feb. 1919 aged seven years.  She was stricken down in health with infuenza, later developing pneumonia and died after a short illness.  She was a bright, cheery child and patient in  all her sickness.  She will be greatly missed in the home especially by the little brother with whom she was constantly.  She attended school this year and was a favorite among all her classmates and schoolmates.  Her sweet ways and affectionate disposition won her to everyone.  It seems so sad to give up our precious jewels but God takes them only to refine them and give them back to us more beautiful than before.  Funeral services were observed at Hobbs cemetery and the dear little from laid to rest in mother earth.  May God bless and comfort the bereft hearts and saddened home is the prayer of the writer.

It was just a little rosebud,
So pure and sweet
That opened its petals
The sun to greet.
The dew drops fell
Upon its petals so rare
And sparkled and glistened
So radiantly there
As it opened its petals
To the morning's glow
Disclosing the purity
Of the soul inclosed
The perfume wafted in the morning's air
And found our hearts entering there
As the petals unfolded each beauty rare
The rosebud grew dearer and in each hour of care
We thought of it only earth's sorrows to spare
But God in his love and his mercy divine
Looked down from above and says:
"It's mine,
I planted the heart and soul that's there
But I'll pluck it away from all sorrow and care"
And Jesus whose heart was so tender with love
When on earth looked about him and above
Saying, suffer the children to come unto me
For of such the kingdom of heaven shall be
So our hearts are sad, as we bid her adieu
But shall be so gladdened in that home anew
When we see the bright little rosebud once more
Knowing we shall never be parted no more.

She leaves to mourn their loss a father, mother, one sister and three brothers, a grandmother and a host of other relatives and friends.  She was preceded to the beyond by an aunt Adda Mathes, who had made her home with the Skinner family for a number of years and was loved by all like a sister.  Little Thelma was her favorite and followed Adda to the Great Beyond in nine months after Adda's leave.  We know they are united again and happy in that home where there is no more parting nor sorrow, for the former things will have passed away. Burial at Hobbs cemetery

Kathryn Terry

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: personal papers of
Jewell  Eisenbarger



IN LOVING MEMORY
LEO A. SKINNER
Feb.6, 1908 to Aug. 18, 1953



A beloved husband, son and brother has been called from life, and many hearts are lonely at his going.
Leo, who meant so much to his family, more especially his aged mother, who was uppermost in his mind following the death of her companion and who retained her little home alone.  The other members of his family also relied on Leo, as he was ever ready to respond when they needed him.  His activities toward them were always of kindness, goodness and helpfulness, and it will be many a day before they will become reconciled.
Leo A. son of Samuel B. and Bertha V. (Mathes) Skinner, was born near Eagleville, Mo., Feb., 6, 1908.  He was one of a family of five children. His brothers and sisters were Preston, Jewelle, Thelma and Everett.  The sister Thelma, and brother Preston, with the father, preceded him in death.  The mother, sister Jewelle (Mrs. Oscar Eisenbarger) of Bethany, Mo., and brother, Everett, of Eagleville, survive. 
Leo grew to manhood on his father's farm, attending school days at White Oak and Eagleville, and Sunday school at the Hobbs chapel, where he was a member.
On April 7, 1952, he united in marriage with Lucile M. Honn, who, with the little stepdaughter, Paula, survives.
His death occurred Tuesday, Aug. 18 at the age of 45 years, six months and 11 days.  His going is sadly mourned by the many who knew him; not only by his family, but numerous friends.  He was a great lover of his home, family and friends, no task too large or small for him to do for anyone in need.  One outstanding trait was his love for children and young people which was proved by his devotion to the little stepdaughter, Paula, his nieces and nephews, who will all miss him sadly.
 
"We will not think of him as dead,
But in the path we mortals tread.
Got some few, trifling steps ahead,
And safe at home
Ane we, too, once past the bend,
Shall meet again this dear son, husband, brother and friend."

Burial at Masonic Cemetery, Eagleville, MO.

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: personal papers of
Jewell Eisenbarger




GEORGE A. SMITH
1844-1930

George A. Smith was born in Clark County, Indianna January 27, 1844 and departed this life March 23, 1930, aged 86 years, one month and 26 days.  He was united in marriage to Sarah E. Humphry on September 9, 1862.  To this union were born 10 children.  All grew to manhood and womanhood except for Wiley, who died in infancy.  The other children are Lewis, John, Henry, James, Samuel of Martinsville, Susie Glenn of Eagleville, and Manda Allen of Cunningham, Kansas.  Mary and Charley preceded him in death. His wife also preceded him about a year ago, passing away May 18, 1929.

Early in life he and his good wife united with the Baptist church.  They later united with the Christian Church and remained faithful members until their deaths.  They always attended services until their health prevented it.  Uncle George and Aunt Elizabeth were early pioneers to this country and helped to build it up.  Uncle George enlisted in the militia and guard force during the Civil War and then enlisted in the regular army and served 90 days.

He has been a good husband and a loving father.  He will be missed by all, but especially by his son John, who has so lovingly and uncomplainingly cared for him for the last four years and a half.  He was laid to rest in the  Wesley Chapel Cemetery

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: personal papers of
Clara E. Fish



SAMUAL G. SMITH
1885-1981

Samual G. Smith, son of George and Elizabeth (Humphry) Smith, was born October 25, 1885 in Harrison County, Missouri and departed this life on March 1, 1981, at the Crestview Nursing Home at the age of 95 years, 4 months and 6 days.  In 1895 at the age of 10, Sam helped build the Mt. Olive Church.  Later in his life, he joined the church where he was a devoted Christian.  On April 19, 1908 he was united in marriage to Bessie Homes.  To this union one daughter, Velma was born.

Sam loved to farm.  He and Bessie owned and operated a farm west of Eagleville until his retirement in 1958.  Sam was a devoted husband and father.  He loved his relatives and many friends.  Our love will always be with you now that you are at home with the Lord.  Sam was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 64 years, Bessie, 6 brother, Lewis, John, Charles, Henry, Wiley and James, 3 sister, Mary, Amanda Allen and Susanah Glenn, son-in-law Leland Cook and grandson, Robert Cook.

He leaves to mourn his daughter Velma Cook; granddaughter Lee Eckerson and husband, Harold, granddaughter in law Dorothy Cook of Omaha, Nebraska, 6 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held March 4, 1981 at Roberson Chapel with Rev. Bill Briley officiating.  Pallbearers were Clyde Chamberlin, Hobart and Clayton Fish, Bill Hook, Vodra Eisenbarger and Jewll Bramer.  Buriel was at the Allen Cemetery, Eagleville, Mo.

LEE ANDREW SMITH
1911-1989
Lee Andrew Smith, son of Henry Franklin Smith and Katie Curilla Stewart Smith was born February 25, 1911 near Brooklyn, Harrison County, Missouri and was of a family of six children.  Two have already passed on:  Lorence Edward and an infant brother.  Those still living include Mrs. Clara Ethel Fish, and Mrs. Artie Marie Smith of Bethany, Mo. and Leslie Ray Smith of Buena Park, California.

Lee was married to Stella Young on March 25, 1933 at the courthouse in Bethany, Harrison County, Missouri by Rev. Dotson.  Three children were born to this union, Mrs. Rose Mary Osmon of Waynesville, Mo, Darrell Eugene and Virginia May both of whom passed away shortly after birth.  Lee passed away May 18, 1989 at the Phelps County Memorial Hospital in Rolla, Missouri at the age of 78 years, two months and 23 days after a series of minor heart attacks.

Those left to mourn his passing included his wife, who so faithfully walked by his side and shared his pleasures and disappointments for 56 years; one daughter, Rose Mary and son-in- law Edgar Osmon of Waynesville, Mo, three granddaughters, Ms. Teresa Sue Tallant of Dixon, MO, Mrs Patricia Ann Firle of Fountain, Colorado, and Ms Rebecca Marie Osmon of Springfield, Mo, and one great granddaughter, Rachel Erin Firle and grandson-in-law Terence A. Firle of Fountain, Colorado, and several nieces and nephews.

Lee was converted to Christ at the age of 16 and baptized August 21, 1927 at the Mount Olive Church near Martinsville, Mo.  He spent most of his life in Harrison County, moving with his wife, to Waynesville in 1982 to be near their daughter and her family.  He will be sadly missed by all of his friends and family.

Services were held Sunday May 21, 1989 at the Roberson Polley Funeral Home in Bethany, Missouri.  Burial was in the Logsdon Cemetery, northwest of Bethany.

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: personal papers of
Clara E. Fish





JAMES MANUEL SMITH
1884-1964

James Manuel Smith son of George A. and Sarah Elizabeth Smith was born January 1, 1884 and departed this life January 13, 1964 at the age of 80 years and 12 days.  He was one of a family of nine children, all whom have preceded him in death except one brother and one sister.  He was born in Worth County, Missouri, moving to Harrison Co. when a small child.

He was united in marriage to Lucinda Jane Glenn on March 8, 1905 who preceded him in death June 5, 1944.  To this union were born four daughters, Mrs Grant Lacy (Leona)  of St. Louis, Mrs. O.N. McIntosh (Opal) St. Joseph, MO; Mrs. Claude Fish (Elaine) Bethany, and Dorothy May who died in infancy.  He is also survived by an adopted son Max, of the home in Martinsville.  Remaining brothers and sisters living are Sam of Eagleville and Suse Glenn of Orland, CA.  Other survivors include five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

He united with the Christian Church at Martinsville years ago and later placed his membership at Mt.Olive Church.  He was a  farmer until his eyesight began to fail and he  left the farm and moved to Martinsville.  He could never become adjusted to being blind as he had always been so active and he was compelled to stay inside where he could find his way around.

Funeral Service were conducted at the Martinsville Christian Church by the Rev. James Collins and the Rev. Floyd Lacy.  Songs were by Mrms Floyd Lacy.  Burial was in the Magee Cemetery beside his wife.

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: personal papers of
Clara E. Fish

CHARLEY M. SMITH
1874-1930

Charley M.Smith,son of George and Elizabeth Smith was born in Worth Co. Missouri on April 25, 1874 and departed from this life at his home in Washington Township March 5, 1930 aged 55  years, 10 months  and seven days.  When a small boy he moved with his parents to Harrison County, Missouri where he spent the rest of his life.  His boyhood days being  in the period of frontier life he received no education than  the district school afforded. When he came to manhood he launched out for himself and engaged in farming and stock raising, as well as buying and feeding his stock for market.  He made this a business of profit, being one of Harrison  County's largest land owners.

March 16, 1898 he was untied in marriage to Della Glenn of Harrison County, MO and to this union five children were born:  Mrs. Vergie Hook, Mrs. Ruby Campbell, Hanford and Stanley, one son dying in infancy.  When Charley's parents Mr.and Mrs. George Smith,  left their parential home and established a home  of their own, they obeyed the teachings of our Lord and united with the church and reared their children in an ideal Christian home.  Charley, being a very obediant child, obeyed the teachings of his parents and grew up to one of Harrison county's most honest, loyal and upright citizens.  Friendship with him meant more than mere social liking. It meant an instant readiness to aid in any difficulty without show.  His loyalty to his work was exceeded by his loyalty to his family and neighbors.

Charley was a public spirited man.  Any enterprise that was for the good of the neighborhood he was always ready to push along.  He was generous in disposition and a  good provider for his family.  He was friendly and sociable, greeting all he came in contact with a smile.  The traits made him a host of friends. 

He was one of a family of 10 children.  One brother, Wiley died when a small boy.  One sister, Mary,predeceased him in death about five years ago, and his mother one year ago.  He leaves surviving him his bereaved wife the four children named above and two grandchildren, Paul Hook and Harold Dee  Smith whom he idolized, (one granddaughter, Lila  Mae Campbell, preceded him in death) and aged father, five brothers,Lewis,John, Henry,Jim, and Sam, two sisters, Mrs.Maude Allen of Cunningham, Kansas and Susie Glenn of Eagleville. These were all present at his funeral.  He also leaves a host of other relatives and friends.  All will feel their loss and he will be missed especially in his home as he  was an ideal father to his family, and as an adviser to his neighbors,  as many of them would go to him for advice at different times.

Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Paul Mitchell, a very close friend of the family at Mt. Olive where he was a regular attendant, Friday March 7.  Pall bearers were Charley Poteet, Albert Dale, Orley Burns, George Snipes,  Grant Geralds and Fritz Cable, his boyhood friends.  A very large concourse of neighbors and friends were present at this service which speaks louder than words of the respect that was held for Charley by his neighbors.  He was taken to the Wesley Chapel Church for burial.

Submitted by:  Melody Beery
mbeery@grm.net
Source: personal papers of
Clara E. Fish

BACK TO THE OBIT INDEX

BACK TO THE MAIN PAGE
©2008 Genealogy Trails