Grayson County TXGenWeb

The Denison Herald
Sunday, December 25, 1921

DEATH TAKES OLD UNCLE JOSH, FAMILIAR DENISON NEGRO
Old Uncle Josh, former slave before the civil war and probably the best known negro in North Texas, went "over yonder" early Friday morning. No more will the polite old gray haired negro be seen driving his rheumatic mule to his decrepit and aged whitewash wagon on the streets of Denison. For 40 years, nearly every since the founding of the tonw, old Uncle Josh was a well known character. No more will there be seen his long sweeping bow and cheerful smile as he greeted one of his white or black frineds. And his "Thank Thee God" learned in the slave days in reply to an affirmative answer when asking of one's health, will be heard no more.
Old Uncle Josh's real name is John J. Joshua. His real age is unknwon and he never old how old he really was but it is believed he bordered on 90 years. He was one of the best negroes in Denison and was oftentimes the leader in trying to make the negroes "do right" and he was frequently called to officiate in controversies as arbiter. He owned his own home at 505 West Washington street.
He was born in Richmond, Virginia in slavery, grew up and adopted the name of his master. He remained with his old "marster" until his death after freedom had been granted. When only a boy he was married but it could not be learned what became of his wife or whether there were any children. In 1880 he met Fannie Joshua in Walker county, Texas and they were married at Calvert. They had 8 children, 6 of whom are living. His wife, Fannie, survives him and the children are, Mrs. Stella Lee, Mrs. Virginia Keys, Miss Etta Joshua, Miss Bessie Joshua, James Joshua and Mrs. Lonnie Yates.
Funeral will be held from the residence, 505 West Washington street, Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Rev. J.J. Hardman will officiate.