VANDIVIER, James M. “Bud”

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Death of “Bud” Vandivier

James M. Vandivier, age fifty-five years, known as “Bud” Vandivier, died Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, at his home in Union township. He had been in declining health for many months.

His sickness first assumed the form of la grippe followed by an attack of measles, resulting ultimately in lung trouble.

Deceased was an affable and popular citizen, with a wide acquaintance. He leaves a wife and four children: Ara Vandivier, of this city; Otis, Rolla and Mrs. Frank Eccles of Union township.

Funeral services were held yesterday forenoon at 11 o’clock at First Mt. Pleasant church, conducted by Rev. L. P. Marshall.

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The Franklin Democrat, Friday, November 25, 1898,
Volume XXXIX Number 20, page 3 column 3

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OBITUARY.

James M. Vandivier was born July 11, 1843, and died Nov. 15, 1898, aged 55 years, 4 months and 4 days.

He married Miss Ida C. Ragsdale, Feb. 18, 1864, daughter of the old pioneer, Henderson Ragsdale. After marriage Mr. Vandivier built and settled on the farm that they now own. As years passed, Mr. and Mrs. Vandivier increased their broad acres, rapidly growing up in influence and wealth. On the pike near Bud P.O. in Union township, is their beautiful home and surroundings built up by frugality and industry. At his death he was one of the leading farmers of Union township and a recognized leader in all the interests of his native township.

Mr. Vandivier never held office, indeed he never aspired to political honors, but some years ago he was solicited by many friends to permit his name to be used on the ticket at the primary county convention, and reluc­tantly entered the race for nomination for sheriff. Several worthy and influ­ential men were seeking the same honor before the voters of this county. Mr. Vandivier did not make a thorough can­vass being satisfied to remain on the farm and attend to his farm interests and family. So the returns came, and Mr. Vandivier was left, but his vote was second for the position. His own township gave him nearly the entire vote. After the canvass passed away Mr. Vandivier was satisfied, and with the zeal as ever managed his growing business with great success.

Fifty-five long years have passed by since Mr. Vandivier was born, and fifty-five years of a most busy and useful life. On the ground and surroundings of the present homestead did he pass the juvenile years. From morn ’till eve over the fields and hills, wading in the little streams—all of which at maturity he owns and cultivates. Often must he have reflected over the past when he was tending the broad acres on which when a little boy he spent years in youthful pastime, happy and innocent. But years later, when he had grown to noble manhood, taking on the cares of a busy life, he entertained different thoughts from innocent child pleasures. The man increased in noble works and deeds, and was known by all as a kind neighbor and friend to the distressed.

To the union of Jas. M. Vandivier and Ida C. Ragsdale was added, viz: Arie V., Jan 20, 1865; Otis M., Feb. 1869; Minnie D., Feb 6, 1870; Annie E., Feb. 4, 1874; Rollie J., Feb. 20, 1879. All are living except Annie, who died June 17, 1891. All the rest are married and have good homes and are leading citizens in their neighborhood. Miss Annie died in the bloom of youth, a dutiful daughter and a loving sister, but the fair young flower in all its beauty and loveliness was called away from the hearthstone, leaving dear ones to mourn their loss.

Mr. Vandivier was never identified with the church, but was always a hearty and zealous supporter of church and school. As stated he never became a member, but by his influence and money, was a most valuable auxiliary to all churches within his surroundings.

A hale, stout, robust man with great vitality and physical strength, he pro­mised to live long, but ere the time he was taken by a very aggravated attack of la grippe, followed by a very severe attack of measles, which complications preyed on the strong system, and being fearless and energetic he exposed him­self so much that he took the con­sumption, and after a long illness he passed away without a murmur or word of any kind that showed he was afraid of death. He bore his suffering with Christian fortitude, dying fully confident that his work in the vineyard would be acceptable, and that his call was from labor to rest.

He leaves a good and loving com­panion and a very noted family. One of his sons, Otis, is one of the leading farmers, and is recognized as one of Johnson county’s best teachers. The family has lost its main pillar; the friends one of their most worthy and influential citizens; the township, one that will be greatly missed; the churches and schools, a valuable and worthy friend. He is gone, but will never be forgotten by family and friends. A reunion at the end of time with all that is dear and near.

P.S. Years ago it became necessary to have a post office near his home. In such grants by the post office depart­ment, it is given to the surrounding citizens the privilege of naming the office, and the whole community unan­imously desired the office to be named “Bud,” after James M. Vandivier, who is known by all as Bud Vandivier. Many are the pleasant reminiscences that are given connected with that dear good citizen, “Bud” Vandivier.   J.F.K.

Link to James M. “Bud” Vandivier’s grave

Submitted by Mark McCrady and Cathea Curry