"The Death Of Mr. Jas. Black 78 At His Home On Monday Morning.
"Glasgow, Barren county, were inexpressibly shocked with news of the death of Mr. James Black, 78, at his home here at four-thirty Monday morning. Mr. Black had been in ill health several years, and never completely recovered from a sun-stroke of two years ago. Death was attributed to heart failure.
"Mr. Black was born in North Barren county, March 24, 1860, and was a son of the late Joseph T. and Sara A. Black. The family has long been prominent in Barren county's political and civic life. When a young man he became a member of the Salem Baptist Church, near Cave City. Later the membership was transferred to the First Baptist Church of Glasgow. The family has resided here the past twenty-seven years. [Note: should be Glasgow Baptist Church, First Baptist is an African-American church.]
"Prior to accepting an appointment at the Eddyville State prison which continued for eleven years, Mr. Black engaged in farming the "The Slash" section of Barren county. Upon his return to Glasgow he became identified with the Planters Loose Tob. Warehouse Co. He retained that position for eighteen years, or, until his health failed. He was a staunch Democrat, having voted the straight ticket for fifty-six years. He was of the old school, and always had an active and pertinent interest in politics. With him party had first consideration. He was scrupulous in his party allegiance and in his political tie-up, and always exerted a strong and fine influence in party contests.
"Mr. Black is survived by his wife, Mrs. Eva Black, one daughter, Mrs. Joe L. Goodman; four sons, Messrs Jerry T. Black, Veterans Hospital, Lexington; J. Vernon Black, Cave City; Horace M. Black, Green Bay, Wis.; Malcolm H. Black, Glasgow; one brother, Mr. Joseph T. Black, Glasgow. All the immediate family were here for the funeral.
"No finer citizen, no more courageous soul, no truer friend or more outstanding gentleman ever lived. He was the soul of honor and fidelity - a man to be trusted, and a man truly loved by all who knew him. Outspoken, firm in his conviction, and quick to take a stand, he always respected the other fellow's attitude, and was never known to offend any one.
"Mr. Black was appointed guard at the Eddyville penitentiary by the late James M. Richardson, at that time a member of the Prison Board. Mr. Black was soon elevated to position of high responsibility, and made friends while in public life who always remembered him and always valued that friendship. He was in charge of the first electrocution at the Eddyville prison in 1911, and until his relinquishment of office was called upon to participate in twenty-three electrocutions.
"While firm and unbending in his duties, Mr. Black was a kindly, gentle and loving husband and father and companion. As ___ as a child, yet as firm as a rock, he inspired confidence and trust. Nobody ever doubted his word or his course of action. Honesty and principle were ever his guiding stars.
"To his various tasks he brought an enthusiasm and a loyalty and a determination that today stand as model for others. Truly, it can be said a strong pillar for the right, and a just and fair man has departed. Funeral was held yesterday afternoon at 4:30 at the Baptist Church with Rev. J. A. Gaines in charge. Interment was in the cemetery at this place.
"Active pallbearers were Will Barlow, Will Duff, Joel Gillenwater, Mosby Woodson, Joe Richardson and WIlliam Jones.
Honorary pallbearers were R. H. Vaughan, R. H. Barton, Noel Crenshaw, S. E. Redford, L. W. Redford, Dr. T. Curd, O. F. Curd, W. R. Handy, W. H. Goodman, Stanley Warder, George Akers, Chester Watkins, Bob Lessenberry, Sam Steen, George J. Ellis, Pete Depp, Tom Barlow, C. C. Redford and Dr. E. L. Palmore."
Undated Glasgow KY newspaper. |
