First Baptist Church

Bay City, Texas
2321 Avenue F (Hwy 60)           28°58'47.98"N        95°58'10.55"W

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Historical Marker Dedication & Open House

Pastors

Emmanuel Baptist Church
First Baptist Church - Sargent
 



 


Members of First Baptist Church
February 1, 1922 - April 4, 1928
 


Bay City Business Ads from the
1911 Baptist Ladies Cook Book

 

Pastors
 


1
Robert Abner Partain

1895

Uncle Robert Partain Dead
August 1, 1836 - February 22, 1897

The community was shocked on Tuesday morning on the receipt of the sad and unexpected intelligence of the death of Rev. R. A. Partain, Deming's Bridge, generally known as Uncle Robt. Partain.

He died very suddenly of heart failure at his home near Deming's Bridge on Monday morning, February 22nd, 1897 about 10 o'clock, aged 61 years.

Uncle Robert had just returned from Ganado, where he filling an appointment as pastor, staying all night Sunday night with some friends on the Carancahua, he drove home Monday morning and in passing through one of the gates his team tried to get away from him and in his efforts to recapture them it is supposed that he ran for quite a distance and became much excited and overheated, bringing on the heart trouble. He arrived home however, complained of feeling badly and a physician was sent for at once, but he only lived about 10 minutes after arriving home. At least above are the particulars given to us by a messenger who came across with the news to notify the local members of the Masonic lodge, of which Uncle Robert was a member, who went across at once to help bury him. So did Rev. McKee, the new Baptist pastor.

Deceased was, we believe, a native of Matagorda county, at least he had lived here most of his life, if not all. He was one of the oldest and most respected citizens of the county. A plain man, but a kind-hearted, generous and noble character. Everybody respected and loved him, and he took such a fatherly interest in everyone that he was reverently called Uncle Robert by almost everyone, because they loved him.

For a number of years he was a regularly ordained Baptist preacher and he was such a faithful worker in the Master's vineyard; his heart and life was so full of Christian love that his life and his work was a power for good in the cause.  Well do we remember the last time he preached in Bay City, only a few months ago, he made a touching appeal to the unconverted and said that perhaps it would be his last appeal, little did we then think of how soon his words would come true. His life was true, so pure, so unselfish, that everybody had unlimited confidence in his every profession and both saint and sinner believed that he loved them from the depth of a genuine Christian heart and life. Indeed his was a beautiful life to contemplate and his influence for good will live on and on, like a pebble on the mighty deep, long after his body has mouldered back to dust.

He had raised a large and respected family in the county and leaves a wife and good large family of children to mourn his loss. He was a noble and kind husband and father. He has several grown children who reside in other parts of the state.

His remains were laid to rest on Wednesday in the family burying ground [Partain Cemetery] at Deming's Bridge, the funeral services being conducted by the Masons.

Uncle Robert Partain lived a noble life, he died a Christian death and has gone home to a Christian's reward. His life is worthy of emulation, because he was so grand and good. The Breeze joins the whole community in extending to the bereaved our sincerest sympathies.

The Bay City Breeze, February, 1897

[A handwritten note was added to this obituary which said Mr. Partain was born August 1, 1836 in New Orleans. His family was involved in the Runaway Scrape.]

News reached El Campo Monday night that Rev. Robt. Partain an old and well-known Baptist minister died in Demmings Bridge Monday with heart disease.--El Campo Eagle--Hallettsville Herald, March 4, 1897

Jenett Parham Partain
March 25, 1843 - April 28, 1899



 


 


2
Alvin A. Caperton
1896

Baptist Preacher Killed By Train At Jacksonville
August 26, 1856 - January 21, 1927

Rev. A. A. Caperton, a retired Baptist preacher, was killed Friday morning at 9 o’clock by a south bound train on the I. G. N. Railroad opposite Slover’s Box and Basket Factory, in the eastern suburbs of Jacksonville.

Mr. Caperton lived at Club Lake, several miles northeast of town, and must have been on his way here when the accident occurred. The engine which struck him was Missouri Pacific No. 1115, in charge of A. L. Temple of Palestine.

A reporter for this paper had an interview with Mr. Temple, and he said that as he was coming in he saw two men standing talking between the mail line and a passing track; that the two separated, one going north and the other south, beside the track. As he got within about 100 feet of the man going south, he stepped up on the track; that he applied the air and exerted all other means to avoid running over him, but the train could not be stopped within that distance, although when it hit Mr. Caperton it had been slowed down to about 10 miles an hour.

The body was bruised more or less about the breast, the left side and face. The left foot was completely severed, just above the ankle, and the right foot was almost severed. It is the opinion of those who saw the body that Mr. Caperton was struck on the left side.

The theory has been advanced that Mr. Caperton thought he was walking down the passing track, instead of the main line.—Jacksonville Progress.

Tyler Journal, Tyler, Texas, January 28, 1927

Kate Chessher Caperton
1856 - 1927


 


3
J. McKee

1897
 


4
William Josiah Cother

1897 - 1899

World Traveling Pastor Dies Here
August 22, 1840 - September 12, 1930

The Rev. W. G. [J.] Cother, 91, who came to Travis county 30 years ago, after a remarkable career in the Baptist ministry which carried him around the world, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. W. A. Davis, 704 East 34th street, early Friday night.

An Englishman, the Rev. Cother preached his first sermon before he was 19, and since that time has held pastorates in England, Scotland, Wales, Australia, the Island of St. Helena and the United States. He was a minister in a St. Helena village for 18 years.

Upon coming to Travis county in 1900, the minister accepted a pastorate at Pleasant Hill, about five miles south of Austin, on the Post road. He later gave up this post, however, and moved to Austin, where he had been in retirement since.

Funeral services will be held from the Cook Funeral home Sunday morning at 9 o'clock with the Rev. Dr. A. L. Aulick of the University Baptist Church officiating. Interment will be made in the Masonic cemetery on the Post road.

The Rev. Cother is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Davis of Austin, and Mrs. Lindsey Hornburg of Proctor, and two sons, Frank Cother of Austin and Albert Cother of Siberia.

Austin American-Statesman, Saturday, September 13, 1930

Veteran Church Leader Is Dead
Rev. Cother Funeral To Be Held Sunday

Funeral services for the late Rev. W. J. Cother, 90, who served for 70 years  as a Baptist minister in England, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of St. Helena and Texas, will be held at 9 a. m. Sunday at the Charles B. Cook funeral home.

The Rev. A. L. Aulick of the University Baptist church, assisted by Dr. K. P. Barton of the First Methodist church, will officiate at the service. Interment will be in the Masonic cemetery on the Post Road south of Austin, beside the grave of his wife.

The Rev. Cother died at 11 p. m. Friday at the home of Dr. and Mrs. W. A. Davis, 304 East 34th street. He was born Aug. 22, 1840 and only recently celebrated his 90th anniversary.

The Rev. Cother is survived by two daughters, Mrs. W. A. Davis of Austin and Mrs. L. D. Hornburg of Proctor, and two sons, F. C. Cother of Austin and Prof. Albert A. Cother, consulting engineer for a mining company in Tomsk, Siberia. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Mrs. L. D. Thornburg of Proctor will be here for the funeral as well as Mrs. Lanham Croley of Dallas. Mrs. Croley is a surviving granddaughter.

The Austin American, Sunday, September 14, 1930

Mrs. Harriett Cother

Mrs. Harriet Cother, aged 57 years, wife of a well known Travis county citizen, died yesterday at the family home, six miles south of Austin. The funeral will be held this morning at 10 o'clock, and the remains will be interred in the Boggy cemetery.

Austin American-Statesman, Sunday, December 21, 1902
 

 

5
John James Lively
1899 - 1902

Death of J. J. Lively
March 21, 1860 - October 14, 1932

Rev. J. J. Lively of Hall community passed peacefully away on Oct. 14, 1932, at 5:40 p. m.

He was born on March 21, 1860, in Wood county, Texas. He was converted and joined the Missionary Baptist church in August, 1885. He was married to Rosalie Calloway December 24, 1885. There were born to this union six boys and three girls. All living but one.

Brother Lively was licensed to preach the gospel by the Macedonia church in Dallas county. He moved from there to El Campo, Texas, and was ordained to the full work of the gospel ministry of that place in August, 1898. He established the first Baptist church in El Campo. He was later pastor of the First Baptist church of Bay City and built the first church there. He was pastor of a number of other churches until his health failed. He moved to New Mexico and pastored churches in that state. He moved back to Texas in 1919, and settled in San Saba county, near Hall church, where, after his health failed, he was no longer able to preach, but taught a Bible class in the Hall Sunday School for a number of years.

His was indeed a useful life. He was never weary of working for the Lord and for his cause. He will be missed in the home, church and community.--A Friend--San Saba News and Star, San Saba, Texas, November 10, 1932

Angeline R. Lively

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Dean, Frank, Herschel and J. Hugh Dean, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kincaid adn Mr. and Mrs. Chester Whitehurst left early Sunday morning to attend funeral services of their aunt, Mrs. J. J. Lively, at the Baptist Church in Hall, near Brownwood. Mrs. Lively was the wife of the Rev. Lively, son of the Rev. H. Y. Lively, well remembered for his ministerial work in the Macedonia Baptist Church. Mrs. Lively died of a heart attach. She would have been 80 years old in four months.--Texas Mesquiter, August 1, 1947
 



Family photos courtesy of the family of
Mary Lou Humber Dorrow


 

There will be divine services at the court house tomorrow by Rev. Dr. Birckhead and at the church by Rev. J. J. Lively, the Baptist minister at El Campo--if the weather doesn't' bluff them out.--Matagorda County Tribune, November 25, 1899

Bro. Lively kindly calls our attention to the fact that in the church directory the Baptists are given the wrong Sunday and the wrong preacher at Bay City. Their day is the first Sunday and their pastor is Rev. J. J. Lively. When Bro. Lively succeeded Bro. Cother, we were so crowded with work that the matter of making the change escaped our attention. Proper correction will be made next week.--MCT, January 27, 1900

Baptist--Services, first Sunday in each month, morning and evening; Rev. J. J. Lively, of El Campo, pastor--MCT, March 10, 1900
 


6
Dr. John Harbard Thorn

1903

John H. Thorne
April 16, 1858 - March 24, 1944

Former Texas Pastor Dies in Louisiana

Shreveport, La., March 24.--Rev. John Harbard Thorn, 85, retired Baptist minister who was born in Scott County, Arkansas, died here Friday at the home of a daughter, Mrs. J. G. Harriss.

He had served pastorates at Rusk, San Marcos and Bay City, Texas, and for several years was connected with the state mission board of the Baptist church. He had lived here since 1926.

Burial will be at Joaquin, Texas, Saturday.

Fort Worth Star-Telegram, March 25, 1944

Buried Joaquin Cemetery, Joaquin, Shelby County, Texas


Photo courtesy of Find A Grave volunteer Tracey C. Strong #47568119

Mary Echols Thorn
March 8, 1865 - March 26, 1917

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rev. J. H. Thorne of Bay City is here.--Houston Post, February 28, 1904

Worked for the Baptist Standard after leaving Bay City.--Galveston Daily News, May 21, 1904

Credited with starting the Rusk Academy - Junior College in Rusk, Texas, The Cherokeean, April 17, 1969
 


7
Eli F. McDonald

1904 - 1909

Rev. Eli F. McDonald

April 27, 1861 – January 7, 1939

 

Funeral services were held here Saturday for Rev. Eli Franklin McDonald, who expired following a lingering illness. Rev. Odis Rainer conducted the services from the Baptist Church and Taylor Brothers were in charge of arrangements.

 

Rev. McDonald, who was born April 27, 1861, in DeWitt County, was married to Miss Mary Hasseltine Cook in 1879. He was called to the Baptist Church of Bay City in 1903 and remained here until 1910 moving to Ft. Worth, where after a short period he became ill and retired from the ministry. Later he returned to Bay City, where he spent the remainder of his life.

 

The Herald joins a large circle of friends in extending sincere sympathy to the following survivors: one sister, Mrs. Will Sutherland of Alice; one brother, A. F. Mcdonald of Boling; one daughter, Mrs. J. C. Sisk of this city; four sons, H. H. McDonald of Wharton, G. C. McDonald of Palacios, Eskar and Lonnie McDonald of this city.

 

Newspaper and date unknown
Obituary courtesy of Susie Adkins


Mary Hasseltine Cook McDonald

August 31, 1863 – September 8, 1936

 

After months of suffering borne with fortitude and Christian patience, the spirit of Mrs. Mary Hasseltine McDonald quietly left the pain racked body and fell asleep Tuesday evening, September 8, in a private sanitarium in San Antonio, to awake on the beautiful resurrection morn.

 

Mrs. McDonald was the daughter of Cas Cook, was born August 31, 1863, and hence was 73 years of age. She was united in marriage to Rev. E. F. McDonald, and to this union seven children were born; six of whom survive; Arthur of Boling, Mrs. J. C. Sisk of Bay City, Hayden of Wharton, Grover of San Antonio, Lonnie of Markham, and Esker of Bay City.

 

She united with the Baptist Church early in life and lived a truly consecrated Christian life. Her presence was missed so much at the regular church services of late years since her failing health prevented her attending, for she was always present when it was possible for her to be there.

 

One of the outstanding qualities of her life was that rare, calm poise, outward serenity – which only comes from a surrendered, happy life. What nobler trait can one possess? What can be more desired than to be one to whom the discouraged and heartsick can go for comfort? How refreshing to come into her presence after having gone to others who, with furrowed brow, had their own petty trials to relate, for she met you with that placid smile in the presence of which one felt ashamed to admit defeat and discouragement and invariably left with fresh courage and assurance that all would be well.

 

Who ever heard her scold or lift her voice? What a beautiful example was her gentle life and how these rare traits are reflected in the lives of her noble children.

 

Her remains were brought home and a very impressive service was held at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. C. Sisk, on Thursday morning, September 10, at 10:45 o’clock, conducted by Rev. Odis Rainer, her pastor, assisted by Rev. Purcell of Wharton. Bro. Rainer brought a beautiful, sincere message from Proverbs.

 

The remains were taken to the Cedarvale Cemetery followed by a large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends – and tenderly borne to her last resting place by her sons and son-in-law, to await the call of the glorious resurrection morn.

 

While she is absent in the body, the beautiful memory of her unselfish life lives on and her influence will be felt throughout the years. She was not only a devoted wife and mother, but every one’s friend. Faithful to every trust, a comforter and friend to the sick and sorrowing; always anxious about the welfare of others, especially those who needed help, and in her quiet way ministered to every need she could possibly fill.

 

To the sorrowing husband, children, relatives and friends we can say, “Do not sorrow as those who have no hope,” for you can rejoin her in that land of promise where there is no more sorrow or pain or death but where all is light, joy and peace eternal.

 

We will miss her, but our loss is her gain.

 

A Friend

 

Newspaper and date unknown              Obituary courtesy of Susie Adkins
 


8
Henry Columbus Morrison
1909 - 1914


 

Veteran Austin Pastor Dies
Rites Are Sunday For H. C. Morrison
June 20, 1873 - October 28, 1939

The Rev. Henry C. Morrison, pastor of the East Avenue Baptist church for the past 20 years died at a local hospital Saturday morning.

He is survived by his widow; six sons, Robert R. Morrison of Houston, Carroll Morrison, Eugene T. Morrison and Charles P. Morrison, all of Austin; Thomas P. Morrison of Elgin and Ben F. Morrison of Wharton; one brother, Arthur F. Morrison, and one sister, Miss Willie Morrison both of Dodge; 20 grandchildren. The body will be at the residence, 1609 Garden street, until 10 a. m. Sunday, when it will be taken to the East Avenue Baptist church and will lie in state.

Funeral services will be held from the church at 3 p. m. Sunday with the Rev. W. H. McKenzie officiating, assisted by the Rev. E. A. Carlson. Burial will be in Memorial Park cemetery.

Baptist ministers of Austin will attend the funeral in a body.

Active and honorary pallbearers, all deacons of the church, will be C. C. McCullough, J. T. Flow, A. W. Swenden, A. D. Beard, J. E. Adair, C. H. Hulbert, G. W. Griffin, A. C. Bock, R. H. Wingard, Fred Jefferies, Milton Burney, F. D. Lloyd, Lee Gartman, David Lewis, Lloyd Council, J. E. Jaques, Russel Rowland, E. A. Holliday and C. W. McCarty.

Austin American, October 29, 1939


Stella Eugene Pond Morrison

November 30, 1876
March 15, 1941

Mrs. Stella E. P. Morrison

Mrs. Stella E. P. Morrison, widow of the late Rev. H. C. Morrison, died at a local hospital Saturday. Mrs. Morrison had been a resident of Austin the past 20 years. Survivors are six sons, Robert Morrison of Houston, Charles Morrison of Elgin, Ben Morrison of Wharton, Carroll, Gene and T. P. Morrison of Austin; and one sister, Mrs. Jennie Adkins of San Benito.

The body will be at the home of her son, Carroll Morrison, 71 East avenue, until 2 p. m  Sunday when it will be taken to the East Avenue Baptist church where funeral services will be held at 3 p. m. with the Rev. E. L. Sparkes, assisted by the Rev. W. H. McKenzie and the Rev. Delbert Gibson, officiating. Burial will be in the Memorial Park cemetery. Pallbearers will be her sons.

Austin American-Statesman, March 16, 1941
 


 

Stella Morrison

The host of friends of Rev. H. C. Morrison and wife profoundly sympathyze with them in the loss of their pretty baby girl whose death occurred this morning after an illness of only a few hours, from cholera infantum. The little one was seized last night and became almost at once violently ill, and despite all that medical science could do, death relieved its sufferings this morning. The baby was seven months old. The funeral will take place tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock.--Matagorda County Tribune, August 12, 1910

The funeral of Baby Stella, infant daughter of Rev. and Mrs. H. C. Morrison, took place this morning, attended by a large concourse of sympathetic friends of the heart broken parents.--Matagorda County Tribune, August 19, 1910

Stella LeTulle Morrison
Daughter of Rev. H. C. & S. E. Morrison
Cedarvale Cemetery
Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


9
Oswald Benjamin Falls, Sr.

1914 - 1916

Oswald Benjamin Falls, Sr.
July 4, 1877 - January 1, 1967
Glennie A. Parker Fields
September 7, 1884 - March 28, 1967

Marriage October 12, 1910
Photos courtesy of Walter Burnett

Bay City

The initial entertainment of the Woman's Missionary Society of the First Baptist Church was held at the home of Rev. O. B. Falls Thursday afternoon. A most enjoyable musicale was given. A song by Mrs. Louis Williams and Miss Sims and instrumental duets by Mrs. Hawkins and Miss Pearl Morton, Misses Sutherland and Poole were gracious in their contribution to the afternoon's pleasure. An enjoyable course of chicken salad, olives and ribbon sandwiches with Russian tea was served.--San Antonio Express, October 18, 1914

Bay City, Texas

January 8.--The executive board of the Colorado association is in session in the First Baptist church in this city today. The following members are present: Rev. J. A. Stephens of Eagle Lake; Rev. M. M. Wolf and pastor Hanks of Palacios; R. A. Armstrong of Victoria; Rev. John Marshall of Columbus; Rev. Mr. Welch, pastor of Yoakum; Rev. O. B. Falls, John Sutherland and Bon Smith of this city. Members of the board are also present.--Houston Post, January 9, 1916

Baptist Pastor Resigns

At the morning service at the Baptist Church yesterday, Rev. O. B. Falls, for the past two years pastor of the First Baptist Church of this city, notified his congregation that he could not served the church longer and would have to leave here about the 15th, to accept a call from another church, he did not say where.

The resignation came as a distinct surprise to practically all of the another church, the First Baptist Church of Kissimmee, Florida, in which pastorate he succeeds Rev. A. J. Holt, editor of the Florida Baptist Witness, for the second time in his ministerial career.

A great number here regret the departure of Brother Falls and his estimable wife. During his stay here a splendid new church and parsonage has been erected and dedicated, the church has been organized and seventy-five additions in the membership effected.

Brother Falls has been a leading spirit in all things spiritual, has given unstintingly of his means and labor to the advancement of religious undertakings and has actively allied himself with all things pertaining to the upbuilding of his church and congregation.

While we regret to see him leave, we trust his new field will prove a good one and that the change will be for the better.

Matagorda County Tribune, May 5, 1916

Rev. O. B. Falls preached his farewell sermon last night. He and his family will leave over the Brownsville tomorrow afternoon for Kissimmee, Florida. Mr. Falls having been called to the First Baptist Church of that city.

Matagorda County Tribune, May 19, 1916

New Baptist Pastor

Rev. O. B. Falls, of Texas, who succeeds Dr. A. J. Holt as pastor of the First Baptist church, will preach his first sermon Sunday morning. In the evening he will preach in the "Casino," when the other churches of the city will extend him the courtesy of adjourning their services in order to attend this meeting.

Orlando Sentinel, Orlando Florida, May 21, 1916

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rev. O. B. Falls

Kissimmee friends were advised this week of the death of the Rev. O. B. Falls which occurred in Richmond, Va., on Jan. 1, where Mrs. Falls is hospitalized in serious condition. Both had been in poor health in recent years. The Rev. Mr. Falls was pastor of the local Baptist Church some 59 years ago and it was during his pastorate that the present sanctuary was erected.--The Orlando Sentinel, Orlando, Florida, January 4, 1967
[Rev. Falls was born in Virginia and died in Richmond, Virginia. He was the son of Thomas Marion Falls and Catherine Freeman Falls. Rev. and Mrs. Falls were buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Richmond, Henrico County, Virginia.]

Mrs. O. B. Falls

Word has been received here of the death of Mrs. O. B. Falls of Richmond, Va. Her husband, the late Rev. O. B. Falls was a former pastor of the First Baptist Church here.--The Orlando Sentinel, Orlando, Florida, April 2, 1967
[Mrs. Falls was born in Nova Scotia and died in Richmond, Virginia. She was the daughter of John Morse Parker and Maria Fellows Parker.]
 


10
John Phillip Gilliam

1916 - July 27,1919


September 21, 1854 - July 4, 1939

New Pastor Preaches

Rev. J. C. Gilliam until recently of Hico, Texas, preached his first sermon to the congregation of the First Baptist Church here yesterday. Rev. Gilliam was called to the service for the Bay City Church several weeks ago but was unable to get here sooner.

Matagorda County Tribune, August 25, 1916

Bay City Pastor Accepts Call From Clifton, Tex.
Rev. J. P. Gilliam Will Move to North Central Texas

The following extracts from some letters received by Pastor J. P. Gilliam explain themselves:

Clifton, Texas, July 1919
Rev. J. P. Gilliam, Bay City, Texas
Dear Bro. Gilliam:

The pleasure is mine to notify you that the First Baptist Church at Clifton, Texas, has unanimously elected you as pastor at a salary of $1,500 and pastor's home. We know the salary is too small and we apologize to you for offering a salary so small, but you will remember that ours is a small, but growing, church, and that we are offering you $500 more than we have ever paid before. But we need a leader who preaches the Word and shuns not to declare the whole counsel of God; and we feel that there is no other who can fill the needs of this congregation as you can.

Trusting that we may a favorably reply from you at your earliest convenience, and that we may have the pleasure of having you permanently located in our midst in the very near future. I am sincerely Yours,

W. B. Robuck, For Clifton Baptist Church

Bro. Gilliam says, that after prayerful consideration, he has decided to resign at Bay City next Sunday and asks the church to accept the resignation at once, that he may begin at Clifton the first Sunday in August, as the Meridian Association convenes at Clifton in August, and the church is anxious for the pastor to be on the ground. He further states that this conclusion was reached, not because of a call from a larger church, for it is a smaller one; not because of a larger salary; for that is the same as received at Bay City; but having conducted two revival meetings at Clifton, and his family having resided there during the time he was general missionary under the State board, he knows the membership and is assured of their loyalty and co-operation in the work; and no small secondary inducement is the fact that both of the sons of Brother and Sister Gilliam are permanently located there, in earnestly requesting their parents to accept the call to Clifton, that the family may, at least, have an occasional family reunion.

So, with love for all and hatred for none at Bay City, he expected to close his work here next Sunday. He also said he would be delighted to meet all his friends at the Baptist Church next Sunday at 11 a. m. and 8:45 p. m. his farewell sermon Sunday night.

Daily Tribune, Tuesday, July 22, 1919

Rev. J. P. Gilliam Accepts Pastorate Baptist Church
Clifton Record

The Daily Tribune, Bay City, Texas, makes the following complimentary reference to the going of Rev. J. P. Gilliam, pastor of the First Baptist Church, Bay City, to become pastor of the Clifton Baptist Church:

"The many, many friends of Bro. J. P. Gilliam and wife will be grieved to learn that they are soon to leave us for Clifton, Bosque County, Texas, Bro. Gilliam having accepted a call to the Baptist Church there.  During his term of service here this splendid pastor has endeared himself to the people of Bay City and vicinity and is held in high esteem by the members of all denominations. He is a strong and forceful speaker, a sincere Christian, a good companion, a staunch friend and a most lovable man. He and Mrs. Gilliam have been identified with every forward movement in the city, have held "open house" to all especially the young people of the city and have shed sunlight and smiles during their abode in our city. We feel that they are voicing the real heartfelt sentiments of every man, woman and child, who knew them in the city, when we say that their departure will be regretted more seriously than can be properly expressed in words here. We wish them well in their new field and can only hope for them that they will be received in Clifton and by Clifton people with the same genuine love and admiration that they take with them from Bay City and Bay City people."

If the editor of The Tribune had been on the beautiful lawn of Mr. R. R. Waldron, president of the First Guaranty State Bank, Clifton, Teas, last Thursday evening and witnessed the splendid reception tendered Rev. and Mrs. Gilliam he would have seen strong evidences that his good wishes in which he expressed the home that Pastor Gilliam and wife he received in Clifton and by Clifton people with the same genuine love and admiration that they bring with them from Bay City people, have come to pass. The lawn was well lighted. The crowd was large and enthusiastic. The spirit sublime and the people united and hopeful.

The services last Sunday were well attended and there were six additions to the church.

Daily Tribune, Monday, August 18, 1919

Rev. and Mrs. John P. Gilliam
Written 1903

Both natives of Tennessee and born in the year 1854, Reverend and Mrs. J. P. Gilliam moved to Texas in 1903 and adopted this state, and especially Bosque County, as their permanent home. Brother Gilliam, as he was affectionately known, first came to Texas to conduct a series of revival meetings, and here he found relief from the severe asthma attacks he had been suffering in Tennessee. It was in 1909 that he first held a revival meeting in Clifton at the First Baptist Church. He declined a call to pastor that church at that time because he was then serving with the Missionary Board of the Baptist Church in Texas. Frequent visits to Clifton where the A. G. Gilliam family lived afforded this couple an opportunity to make many friends here, and in 1920 [after serving in Bay City] the Reverend J. P. Gilliam accepted the call to become pastor of the First Baptist Church.

An active sportsman, Brother Gilliam found this county a paradise. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and horseback riding. A typical day found him rising at 4:00 a. m. to read his Bible and study for his sermons. By daybreak he was ready to go fishing or hunting, and he always returned with game which he shared with friends. His afternoons were spent visiting members of his church and in further study. A life-long hunting companion was the late John Nance Garner, Vice President of the United States. Each deer season found them meeting at Uvalde, Texas for their annual hunt. Two men could not have been more opposite in temperament and character, except that they shared the joy of hunting, and they had respect for each other.

Brother Gilliam was an outstanding "Scripturenarian," with an amazing memory that could place chapter and verse correctly. At Wednesday even prayer meetings, he often played a game with his congregation asking them to read a portion of a scripture from anywhere in the Bible to him. Then he would tell them the exact book, chapter, and verse, and most often could go on reciting the scripture from memory. He was very ecumenical in spirit and cherished his friends in different denominations.

After leaving Clifton, Brother Gilliam served as pastor of several central Texas churches before he retired in 1930 and moved back to Clifton to spend his last years near the family of his son, and in an area where he could continue to hunt and fish. When it was no longer advisable for him to drive a car, Brother Gilliam bought a gentle horse which he rode out into the country to pursue his beloved sports. When he was almost eighty-five years old he went for his last happy horseback ride, when the animal slipped on wet pavement and fell. The injuries he sustained at this advanced age led to his death in 1939.

Mrs. J. P. Gilliam, born Sarah Belle Pardue, was a quiet, gentle woman who never took any position of leadership in the church, but she was totally supportive of her husband's ministry, and she made for him a home that was truly a haven. All who came to seek Brother Gilliam's help were first welcomed into their home by the gracious smile of his wife. Theirs was a marriage of perfect complements--this active, gregarious, eager man and his quiet, serene, understanding lady.

Children of this couple were Arthur G. Gilliam, Ivy Gilliam Cage, Mattie Gilliam Binford, and John Paul Gilliam. Descendants who still live in Bosque County are granddaughters Grace Gilliam Parks and Nell Gilliam Jenson and great-grandchidlren Patsy Parks Rickels, Tom Gilliam Parks and John Phil Gilliam.

The Reverend and Mrs. John Philip Gilliam are buried in Hico, Texas.--by Mrs. J. Bruce Parks

Bosque County: Land and People: A History of Bosque County, Texas, 1985, Dallas, Texas, p. 310

~~~~~~~~~~~

The many friends of the much beloved Rev. J. P. Gilliam regret to learn of his serious condition the past few days. He suffered a broken arm and other injuries when he fell from his horse several days ago.--Clifton Record, June 23, 1939

Rev. J. P. Gilliam Is Called by Death

Rev. J. P. Gilliam, almost 85 years of age, and one of Clifton’s greatly beloved ministers and citizens, passed away just before midnight Tuesday, July 4, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mattie Binford, in this city.

Born September 21, 1854, in Gallatin, Tennessee; died July 4, 1939, Clifton, Texas, marks the life and passing of a great and good man. He entered the ministry of the Baptist Church and to those who knew him all these years, he was one of the best and
most faithful and earnest workers in this his chosen field of labor; keeping busy at this work continuously with the exception of just the few past years when he was forced to retire from the active work of the ministry to his very comfortable home in northwest Clifton, where he enjoyed living and was a real friend to man.

Until just a few weeks ago he was quite active, though showing signs of feebleness,  when one day he went for his last happy horseback ride. He fell from his animal and broke an arm and was possibly injured internally and for a while it seemed he would recover from this accident, but his advanced age and feeble condition proved a
handicap that he could not overcome, hence the passing of this good man.

Funeral services were conducted at the Clifton Baptist Church Thursday morning at 9 o’clock by Rev. Clarence Morton, a former pastor of this church, now serving the Ballinger Baptist Church in this capacity. He was assisted by the local pastor, Rev.
Gerald Trussell, in the presence of a large congregation of sorrowing friends, who joined in extending sympathy to the bereaved children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; after which the body was taken to Hico for interment by the side of the wife who preceded him in death a few years ago.

Rev. Morton, a friend for many years, was some years ago given the written information by deceased in his own handwriting giving much information about his life and especially his ministry, with the personal request that he conduct the funeral services for him should he live the longest. He also furnished a life sketch for publication; the latter being promised for the Record next week.

Special songs known to be favorites of Rev. Gilliam, were beautifully rendered during the services.

The pallbearers were: Ike Malone, Paul Winn, Roy Watson, Geo. Fossett, Leo Richards and H. P. Jones.

The deceased is survived by four children: A. G. Gilliam, Mrs. Mattie Binford, of Clifton; Airs. John Cage, Stephenville; Paul Gilliam of Hamilton; also nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Clifton Record, July 7, 1939


Marker photo courtesy of Find A Grave volunteer Hardy Morgan #47406674

Mrs. J. P. Gilliam Dies At Carlton, Texas

Mrs. J. P. Gilliam, wife of Rev. J. P. Gilliam, died at their home in Carlton last Saturday, March 22, and was buried in Hico, their former home, Monday afternoon.

Deceased was seventy-six years old, had been practically an invalid for a number of years; hence her demise did not come as a surprise to relatives and friends; however, the shock and grief is a severe blow to those she meant so much to in this life. She
was the mother of our townsman, A. G. Gilliam, and other children who have made their home in Clifton during the time when she was also living here.

Rev. Gilliam had already purchased the Waldrop home in Edgewood Addition to Clifton, and getting ready to move here with his wife at the time of her fatal illness which interrupted this plan in a way; however, he is this week moving the household goods here and the Record is advised that his widowed daughter, Mrs. Mattie Binford, and her two children who have been making their home in Alabama, will join him in his Clifton home to help make life brighter for all of them.

Clifton Record, March 28, 1930
 


11
Dr. Thomas Vandiver Herndon

1919 - 1922

Baptists Call Rev. Herndon
Brownsville Preacher Will Fill Bay City Pulpit

At a business meeting of the deacons of the First Baptist Church held Wednesday night a "call" was issued to Rev. J. V. Herndon, of Brownsville, to fill the pulpit here.

Rev. Herndon has accepted and will soon move with his family to Bay City.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, August 29, 1919

Dr. Herndon, 70 , Noted Pineville Minister, Dies
September 16, 1883 - July 12, 1954

Dr. Thomas V. Herndon, 70, of Pineville, prominent Louisiana and Southern Baptist minister, died in an Alexandria hospital at 8:05 p. m. Monday.

Dr. Herndon was a trustee of Louisiana College for many years and served part of the time as president of the board.

He retired in 1950 but was still active in the ministry until 1952 when he suffered a heart attack. He has been in ill health for the past two years and was hospitalized six days ago.

Early in his career, Dr. Herndon pastored churches in San Antonio, Brownsville, Mercedes and Bay City, Texas, and was budget director of the Texas Baptist Convention.

He came to Louisiana in 1926 and was the first pastor of the Trinity Baptist church in Lake Charles, where he served for 19 years. He also served as pastor of the Elizabeth Baptist Church for five years.

He was a member of the State Baptist Executive board, a trustee of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a trustee of the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Dr. Herndon was also a member of the Home Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention and was a president of the Louisiana Baptist Convention for two years.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Thomas V. Herndon of 117 Fairmont street, Pineville; two sons, John W. Herndon of Pasadena, Texas, and Professor George C. Herndon of Louisiana College, Pineville; one daughter, Mrs. G. E. Keith of Temple, Texas; one sister, Mrs. Lois H. Fortson of Elberton, Ga., and nine grandchildren.

The body will remain at the Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria until the services at 10 a. m. Wednesday at the First Baptist Church in Pineville.

Officiating will be Dr. Houston Smith, Dr. Earl Gunn, president of Louisiana College; and Rev. Troy V. Wheeler.

Interment will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

The Town Talk, Alexandria, Louisiana, July 13, 1954

Mrs. Herndon Succumbs at 85

Pasadena, Tex.--Mrs. Martha Collins Herndon, 85, of Pasadena died at 1:10 p. m. Wednesday in a hospital here. She was the widow of Dr. T. V. Herndon, who was the charter pastor of the Trinity Baptist church in Lake Charles, La. She was state president of the WMU of Louisiana for seven years and a Sunday School worker in the Baptist church.

Survivors include two sons, John W. Herndon of Pasadena and Dr. George C. Herndon of New Orleans; one daughter, Mrs. G. E. Keith of Belton, Tex., nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. Saturday in the First Baptist church in Pineville, La. The body will be at the church at 8 a. m. Saturday. Dr. R. Houston Smith will officiate. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park under direction of Hixson Bros. of Lake Charles.

The Town Talk, Alexandria, Louisiana, June 18, 1971
 


12
William Mannie Joslin

1922 - 1925

Rev. Joslin Moves to Longview, Texas

Rev. W. M. Joslin, who has been pastor of the Bay City Baptist church left today with Mrs. Joslin for Longview where he will take the pastorate of the Baptist church. Mr. and Mrs. Joslin are making the trip through in automobile, having shipped their furniture yesterday.--Matagorda County Tribune, December 4, 1925

W. M. Joslin
February 16, 1884 - April 6, 1973

Port Arthur--Rev. William M. Joslin, 89, of the Cresthaven Nursing Home, died there at 6:45 p. m. Friday.

He was the former pastor of Lakeview Baptist Church and Northend Baptist Church. He retired in 1949. He was a native of Cooper and had lived in Port Arthur for 31 years.

Funeral services will be announced by Clayton-Thompson Funeral Home.

Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. A. E. Thompson Sr., Amarillo, and Mrs. W. H. McDonald, Wichita Falls; and two brothers , Carson and Ivan Joslin, both of Amarillo.

Beaumont Journal, Beaumont, Texas, April 7, 1973


Photo courtesy of Find A Grave volunteer Mary Casey #49448197

Mrs. Joslin

Port Arthur--Funeral services for Mrs. Lula E. Joslin, 84, a resident of Cresthaven Nursing Home, will be Saturday at 4 p. m. in the Clayton-Thompson Funeral Home.

The Rev. Hugh Durham, pastor of the Fourth Avenue Baptist Church, will officiate. He will be assisted by the Rev. G. Julian Jones, pastor of Truett Memorial Baptist Church and the Rev. James Edwards, pastor of the First Baptist Church. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Mrs. Joslin died at 4:30 p. m. Thursday in the nursing home. She was a native of Independence, Mo.

Beaumont Journal, Beaumont, Texas, September 12, 1970
 


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