Morris Gilbert Watson, Sr.

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Morris Gilbert Watson Sr., son of Enos Albert and Mary Etta (Kizer) Watson, was born 15 May 1903 in Cooper, Delta County, Texas. He died 13 November 1977 in LaMesa, Dawson County, Texas and is buried next to his wife Mae Montogomery in Belvieu Cemetery in Rotan, Fisher County, Texas.

9 Jan 1920, Roby, Fisher County, Texas:

71-74
Watson, E.A. Head M W 47 M b. TX fb. US mb. US lawyer
-----Etta Wife F W 41 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
-----Mamie Dau F W 19 S b.TX fb. TX mb. TX stenographer
-----Morris Son M W 16 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

Watson - Harvey

Morris Gilbert Watson certainly succeeded in giving  his Roby friends a surprise when he hied himself away to Hamlin Sunday and married one of that town's most beautiful and popular young ladies, in person of Miss Isa Nona Harwell, daughter of Mrs. T. R. Harwell.

Morris is the son of Mr. and Mrs. E.A. Watson of Roby.

The Star-Record wishes for these young people all of the joys anticipated in the contract.--Roby Star Record.
[Source: The Snyder Signal, Synder, Texas; Fri 3 June 1921]

A year later, Morris and Isa Noma Watson were evidently living in Dallas

Watson, Noma Mrs., sten E.A. Watson, rms 614 W 2d
[Source: Ft. Worth City Directory, 1922]

Morris Gilbert Jr., son of Morris G. and Noma (Harwell) Watson was born 28 Feb 1923.

Mrs. M.G. Watson and little son, Morris Jr. ...visiting Mrs. Watson's mother, Mrs. T.R. Harwell.
[Source: The Hamlin Herald; Hamlin, Texas; 1 June 1923]

Isa Noma and Morris G. Watson Jr. probably separated between 1923 and 1924. She lived in Dallas for several years before removing to Houston.

Morris G (Noma) mgr Andrews & Brand Radio Shop r 5403 Richard av
[Source: Dallas City  Directory, 1924]

Mrs. Noma I Watson public sten Bell & Collier r 1621 Bennett av
[Source: Dallas City Directory, 1927]

Watson, Noma 01 Marvin bldg stenographer
[Source: Dallas City Directory, 1928]

Noma Watson, 1101 Eleventh Floor, Marvin Building, 109 North Akard
[Source: Dallas City Directory, 1929]

Watson, Noma sten Shell Pet Corp., r4824 Reiger av
[Source: Dallas City Directory, 1930]

Watson, Noma Miss emp Shell Pet Corp r Ben Milam Hotel
[Source: Houston City Directory, 1932]

Morris G. Watson and Isa Noma evidently divorce, and he married Alma Stackbein 18 May 1928 in Crosby County, Texas. Isa Noma (Harwell) Watson married Paul Ritter of Houston.

Morris Watson To Be Married

It will be a surprise to his many friends to learn that Morris Watson left here yesterday for Rock Springs, where he is expected to be happily married to Miss Alma Stackbein. We did not learn the exact day the marriage will take place, but it is expected to be about Saturday.

The groom is a young attorney in Crosbyton and the son of Judge of Crosbyton and the son of Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson. The bride is a teacher in the Rock Springs school.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 18 May 1928]

New Married Couple Return

Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson arrived here Monday evening from San Antonio. They were married last Friday in San Antonio. Mrs. Watson was formerly Miss Alma Stackbein of Rock Spring where she has been a teacher in the Rock Spring school.

We are glad to welcome these young people as citizens of our town and wish  for them much happiness and prosperity in their wedded life.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 25 May 1928]

Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson left Tuesday for a visit over the Christmas holidays with Mrs. Watson's parents in Rock Springs, Texas.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 28 Dec 1928]

Mr. M.G. Watson, of Los Angeles, Calif., was a visitor last week in the home of his father and mother, Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson and little son, Morris, Jr. Mr. Watson is engaged by a title insurance company in Los Angeles. He had been to Dallas on business for his firm and took advantage of the opportunity to visit his home folks.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 15 Mar 1929]

10 April 1930 Evangelical College, Dallas, Dallas County, Texas:

3923 Swiss Ave

238-374 Lynnott, Jessie E. head M W 49 M 23 b. MS fb. MS mb. MS

Watson, Mayme lodger F W 29 S b. TX fb. mb. TX stenographer

-----Morris lodger M W 26 M 18 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX insurance adjustor

3 April 1930, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California:

967 ? Ave

264-495 

Watson  Alma lodger F W 27 M 26 b. TX fb. TX mb. Germany stenographer

This seems to have been a  temporary separation between Morris and Alama. Within a couple of weeks she left California for Texas:

Mrs. Morris Watson, of California is the weeks guest of Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson enroute to Dallas to join her husband where they will make their home.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 25 April 1930]

Forms Law Partnership

Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson arrived here Tuesday from Rock Springs, and will make their home in Crosbyton. Morris has formed a law partnership with his father, Judge E. A. Watson, and the law firm will be known as Watson & Watson. Mr. and Mrs. Watson will be at home in the Fullingim apartments on South Berkshire Street.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 12 Sept 1930]

Morris Watson Starts Law Office In Same Office Father Began

Morris Watson left last week for Rotan where he opened a law office. A letter to his father, Judge E.A. Watson, a few days later stated that he was very pleasantly located  in the same office that his father began his practice of law several years ago.

Mr. Watson passed the bar examination a few years ago and since that time has been associated with his father here in the practice of his profession.

Mr. Watson has been active in all court procedure, practicing in all of the courts, and has won practically all cases he has handled.

At the time of his leaving he was a member of the Crosby County Bar Association.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 12 May 1933]

Between 1930 and 1933, the marriage between Morris and Alama ended. Either she died, or they divorced.
Morris G. Watson married Miss Mae Montgomery on 27 Oct 1933 in Fisher County, TX. They had two children.

Judge and Mrs. Morris Watson of Rotan are parents of a son born Wednesday morning. He weighted 11 1/2 pounds.

[Source: Sweetwater Reporter; Sweetwater, Texas; Thurs 9 Feb 1939]

23 April 1940; Raton, Fisher County, Texas:

253

Watson, Morris G Head M W 36 M grade: C-3 b. TX 1935 res: same place

-----May L Wife F W 36 M grade: C-3 b. TX 1935 res: same place

-----Reva Joe Dau F W 5 b. TX 1935 res: same place

-----Jim A. Son M W 1 S b. TX 1935 res: same place

Watson, Morris G r Hickman Hotel
[Source: Dallas City Directory, 1941]

Early in the United States entry in WWII, both Morris Sr. and Morris Jr. were serving as radio technicians.

Morris Watson Jr., Here

Morris Watson, Jr., spent several days furlough here last week with his grandparents, Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson. Morris Jr. recently volunteered as a Radio Technician at Lubbock Army Flyers School. His father, Morris Watson, Sr., of Rotan is also a Radio Technician, but is in the U.S. Navy. "He picked the right job but the wrong end of the service," the son said, seemingly very proud of his army uniform.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 6 Nov 1942]

Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson had as their guests for the weekend, their chilren and grandchildren, Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson Sr. and children, Reva Jo and Jim of Rotan, Pvt. Morris Watson Jr. from South Plains Army Flying Field, and Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Bruce of Lubbock. Morris Watson Sr., who is in the Navy Reserve (G.T.) is being sent to Kerney, J.J., as a radio engineer with Western Electric Company.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review, Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 18 June 1943]

Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson, Sr. and children, Reba Jo and Jim of Roby, visited their parents, Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson and Morris Watson, Jr. last week in Crosbyton.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 30 Nov 1945]

Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson and grandson Morris Watson visited over the weekend with son and father, Morris G. Watson and family at Roby.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review, Crosbyton, Crosby County Texas; Fri. 21 Dec 1945]

Mrs. E.A. Watson has purchased a home in Rotan, and she and her grandson, Morris Watson, jr., plan to move there in the near future. Her son and family, Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson sr., and children, already live in Rotan.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 27 June 1947]

Mrs. E.A. Watson, of Rotan, was attending to business and visiting with friends in Crosbyton Monday. Morris Watson, jr., student at Texas Tech, had spent the week-end with his father and grandmother, and Mrs. Watson took him back to Lubbock.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 27 Feb 1948]

Mamie Bruce

Services for Mrs. Mamie W. Bruce, 77, of Lubbock will be at Franklin Bartley Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. J. Walter Axtell, a Baptist minister, officiating. Burial will be in City of Lubbock Cemetery. A Lubbock County resident 30 years and a resident-patient at the University Convalescent Center the past year and a half, Mrs Bruce owned ABC Print and Mail of Lubbock. She died 1:45 p.m. Friday. Survivors include a brother Morris G. Watson of Rotan; a niece and two nephews.

[Source: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal; Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas; Sun 15 Feb 1975]

Death Certificate of Morris Gilbert Watson,Sr..:

Morris Gilbert Watson b. 15 May 1903, Cooper Co., TX; d. 13 Nov 1977 Lamesa, Dawson Co., TX. Widowed. Occupation: attorney. Father: E.A. Watson. Mother: Mary Etta Kiser. Informant: Mrs. Elwood Freeman, daughter. Burial: Belvieu Cemetery, Rotan, Crosby Co., TX. 

[source: death certificate]

Mary Etta (Kizer) Watson

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Mary E. Kizer, daughter of Sarah Catherine (Renfro) and Jerry M. Kizer, was 4 August 1879 in Texas and died 4 September 1973 in Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas. She married Enos Albert Watson 3 Jan 1897 Delta Co., Texas. Enos Albert Watson, born 26 October 1874 in Delta County, Texas, was the son of John Thomas and Piety Watson. After the death of his father, Piety Watson married Joseph D. Renfro, grandfather of Mary E. Kizer. For seven to eight years, Enos lived in the same household with Joseph D. Renfro. Enos would have been 14-15 years old when his step-father died. After the death of Joseph D. Renfro in 1887 or 1888, Piety married L.B. Herren in 1888. Enos Albert Watson died April 1942 in Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas. Both Mary Etta (Kizer) and Enos Albert Watson are buried in Oaklawn Cemetery, Cooper, Delta County, Texas.

22 April 1910, Cooper, Delta County, Texas:

192-202
Watson, Eones A. Head M W 39 M-1 13 b. TX fb. TN mb. TN superintendent county schools
-----Kizer Wife F W 32 M-1 13 4-4 b. TX mb. TX fb. TN
-----Mamie dau F W 9 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Morris son M W 6 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Harry son M W 5 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Louis son M W 2/12 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

By 1918 the couple was living in Fisher County, Texas:

Enos Albert Watson  of Rotan, Fisher County, Texas, b. 26 Oct 1874, lawyer, contact: Mary Etta Watson
[Source: WWI registration card]

9 Jan 1920, Roby, Fisher County, Texas:

71-74
Watson, E.A. Head M W 47 M b. TX fb. US mb. US lawyer
-----Etta Wife F W 41 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
-----Mamie Dau F W 19 S b.TX fb. TX mb. TX stenographer
-----Morris Son M W 16 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

Judge Watson Has Automobile Accident

While coming into Snyder last Saturday morning on his way from Hermleigh, the car in which Judge E.A. Watson, wife and baby were riding, collide with another car. While none of them were seriously injured, they were fortunate in escaping a serious injury, Judge Watson said.

Judge Watson was hurt slightly about the chest, Mrs. Watson received a sight cut and the baby received a slight cut about the face. The car had to undergo considerable repairs.
[The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 3 June 1927]

The baby mentioned in this article is probably Morris G. Watson, Jr., their grandson. Morris G. Watson seems to have spent most of his childhood with his grandparents.

Watson Home Burns

The Judge E.A. Watson home on College avenue was destroyed by fire last Friday night. Judge Watson was away from home at the time of fire. Mrs. Watson and "Sonny" were awakened about 1:30 o'clock at night when the home was full of smoke and the alarm was turned in. Origin of the fire is unknown. It was partially covered by insurance.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County; Fri 14 March 1930]

Card of Thanks

We sincerely thank all who so faithfully assisted in the saving of our household goods and furniture in the recent fire and all who by words and acts contributed to our comort. We also extend our appreciation to the Fire Boys who so faithfully performed their duty. We know, no city has as efficient a volunteer fire department.
Sincerely,
Mr. and Mrs. E.A. Watson
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County; Fri 14 March 1930]

18 April 1930, Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas:

67 - 73
Watson, Enos A Head M W 55 M 23 b. TX fb. NC mb. TN attorney
-----Mary E Wife 49 M 18 b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
-----Morris G Jr. grandson M W 7 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
Mary Etta Kizer b. 4 Aug 1879 in Texas ; d. 4 Sept 1973 in Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas. Widow: Watson. Father: Jerry Kizer. Mother: Sarah Catherine Renfroe. Informant: Mrs. Mamie Bruce (daughter). Burial: Oaklawn Cem., Cooper, Delta County, Texas, 5 Sept 1973
[Source: death certificate]

23 April 1940; Raton, Fisher County, Texas:

253
Watson, Morris G Head M W 36 M grade: C-3 b. TX 1935 res: same place
-----May L Wife F W 36 M grade: C-3 b. TX 1935 res: same place
-----Reva Joe Dau F W 5 b. TX 1935 res: same place
-----Jim A. Son M W 1 S b. TX 1935 res: same place

Judge Watson's Brother-In-Law Died on Sunday

J.H. Terry, brother-in-law of Judge E.A. Watson, his sister's husband died at his home in Wichita Falls Sunday, March 8, very suddenly. Funeral services were held up Wednesday for the arrival of the eldest son. Judge and Mrs. Watson went there Sunday for the funeral, returning home Wednesday afternoon.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 20 March 1942]

A Visit With Jerry M. Kizer Shortly Before His Death:

Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson returned home last Tuesday from a holiday visit with their daughter, Mrs. Mamie Watson Jeffreys of Dallas, and with Mrs. Watson's father at Cooper. Their grandson Morris Watson, Jr., student at Rice Institute, Houston, met them in Dallas.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 9 Jan 1942]

Mrs. E.A. Watson's Father Died At Cooper

Jerry M. Kizer, 88, father of Mrs. E.A. Watson of this city, died at his home in Cooper Saturday, January 31. Judge and Mrs. Watson had a telegram late Friday that he was not expected to live. They left here Friday night for Cooper.

Mrs. Watson is the only living child. He had five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon and he was buried in Odd Fellows Cemetery at Cooper.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 6 Feb 1942]

Morris G. Watson Jr., son of Morris Watson, continued to make his home with his grandparents, Mary Etta (Kizer) and E.A. Watson:

Morris G. Watson, recently returned from six month in New Guinea, is now at home in Crosbyton with his grandparents, Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson.

Morris spent three years in armed services as a radio technician and now has an honorable discharge. He plans to enter the University in Tucson, Arizona, on January 1st, where he will major in electrical engineering.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 21 Sept 1945]

Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson, Sr. and children, Reba Jo and Jim of Roby, visited their parents, Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson and Morris Watson, Jr. last week in Crosbyton.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 30 Nov 1945]

Judge and Mrs. E.A. Watson and grandson Morris Watson visited over the weekend with son and father, Morris G. Watson and family at Roby.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review, Crosbyton, Crosby County Texas; Fri. 21 Dec 1945]

Obituaries for Enos Albert Watson:

County Attorney Watson Is Buried In Old Home County

One of the largest crowds ever at attend a funeral service in Crosbyton gathered at the First Methodist church Tuesday afternoon as a testimonial to the regard for Judge Enos Albert Watson, who died in a Lubbock hospital Monday morning at 11 o'clock.

Judge Watson, county attorney for Crosby County for the last five years, had been ill for several weeks, having spent his last two weeks in the hospital. Born October 26, 1973 [sic], in Delta County, Texas, he was past 72.

A friend of 40 years standing, Rev. H. Hall of Ralls, brought the message at the funeral service in Crosbyton. Rev. Hall had officiated for Judge Watson's step-father and later for his mother some 30 years ago. Rev. Hall was assisted Tuesday afternoon by Elder Tommie Dunn of the Ralls Primitive Baptist church and Attorney Loyd A. Wicks of Ralls, the latter as a fellow member of the bar.

Burial was scheduled at Cooper, in Delta County, late Wednesday with the Masonic lodge in charge. District Attorney Burton Burks of Lubbock was to be master of ceremonies, with several members of Crosbyton's Masonic lodge assisting, along with member of the Delta lodge.

Judge Watson had led a long and useful life, beginning as a school teacher. He was elected as the first county superintendent of Delta County, later moving to Snyder where he taught school several years before entering the legal profession. He moved to Ft. Worth for the practice of law, but came to Crosby County in 1924 and had since lived here. He was a member of the First Christian church in Fort Worth and kept his membership there as there was no church here of that denomination. However, he was a trustee of property held in Crosbyton by that church.

The late attorney was married Jan. 3, 1897 to Miss Mary Etta Kizer. Two children survive, one being attorney Morris Watson of Rotan and the other being Mrs. Mamie Bruce of Lubbock. He also is survived by three grandchildren, Morris Jr., now in the University of Arizona, and Roba Jo and Jim W. of Rotan.

Judge Watson was a humanitarian and a keen student of the problems of youth an dthe underprivileged, Attorney W. P. Walker of Crosbyton, said in a tribute paid him at the weekly meeting of the Crosbyton Lions club Wednesday.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 1 March 1946]

Watson Burial
The late attorney was married Jan. 3, 1897 to Miss Mary Etta Kizer. Two children survive, one being attorney Morris Watson of Rotan and the other being Mrs. Mamie Bruce of Lubbock. He also is survived by three grandchildren, Morris Jr., now in the University of Arizona, and Roba Jo and Jim W. of Rotan.

Judge Watson was a humanitarian and a keen student of the problems of youth an dthe underprivileged, Attorney W. P. Walker of Crosbyton, said in a tribute paid him at the weekly meeting of the Crosbyton Lions club Wednesday.
[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 1 March 1946]

Cooper--Cooper Masonic Lodge conducted committal service here Wednesday afternoon in Oaklawn Cemetery for a former member, Enos Albert Watson, who died at home in Crosbyton. He was Delta County's first school superintendent, and married a daughter of Bud Kizer. He was about 70 years old.

[Source: The Paris News; Paris, Lamar County, Texas; 28 Feb 1946]

Card of Thanks

This expression of our thanks for your kindness and condolences in the death of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, E.A. Watson, comes from sorrowing and grieved hearts greatly comforted by all of you his friends and our friends.

Mrs. E.A. Watson

Mrs. Mamie W. Bruce and husband W.W. Bruce

Morris G. Watson and wife, Mae Watson

Morris G. Watson, Jr. 

Reva Jo Watson

James Albert Watson

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas, Fri 15 March 1946]

To the Clients of E.A. Watson Deceased

My fathers files are now in my office at Roby. I expect to complete any unfinished business and to return to you any valuable papers left with him. This is impossible without your help--if you will call me or write me I'll do my best to finish the job the way he would have had he lived.

Morris G. Watson

Attorney at Law

P.O. Box 445

Roby, Texas

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas, Fri 15 March 1946]

After E.A. Watson's death, Mary Etta and grandson Morris G. Watson Jr. moved to Rotan in Fisher County, Texas:

Mrs. E.A. Watson has purchased a home in Rotan, and she and her grandson, Morris Watson, jr., plan to move there in the near future. Her son and family, Mr. and Mrs. Morris Watson sr., and children, already live in Rotan.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 27 June 1947]

Mrs. E.A. Watson, of Rotan, was attending to business and visiting with friends in Crosybton Monday. Morris Watson, jr., student at Texas Tech, had spent the week-end with his father and grandmother, and Mrs. Watson took him back to Lubbock.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 27 Feb 1948]

Lost History! We're Hunting One About Delta County

Lost: One history of Delta County.

It's a rather valuable history book--at least to one person, Mrs. E.A. Watson of Rotan. It has been owned by the family for a long time, and she would like very much to find it.

"I loaned it to someone in Crosbyton," Mrs. Watson told T.E. Johnson who visited in Rotan last week-end, "And I have forgotten whom I loaned it to."

Mr. Johnson, who works at Reeves "66" Station, said that he would be glad to send the book to Mrs. Watson if someone in Crosbyton has it or knows where it can be found.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 22 July 1949]

The book that Mary Etta was trying to recover was probably Loose Leaves: A History of Delta County by Ikie Gray Patterson, which had been published in 1935. The book would have probably been acquired after their house was destroyed by fire in 1930.

Death Certificate for Mary Etta (Kizer) Watson:

Mary Etta Kizer b. 4 Aug 1879 in Texas ; d. 4 Sept 1973 in Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas. Widow: Watson. Father: Jerry Kizer. Mother: Sarah Catherine Renfroe. Informant: Mrs. Mamie Bruce (daughter). Burial: Oaklawn Cem., Cooper, Delta County, Texas, 5 Sept 1973

[Source: death certificate]

Evidently, Mary Etta (Kizer) Watson was living near or with her daugthter Mamie (Watson) Bruce at the time of her death.

Children of Enos Albert and Mary Etta (Kizer) Watson:

1. Mamie Watson
2. Morris Watson
3. Harry Watson
4. Louis Watson

Last updated on August 9, 2015

Sarah Catherine (Renfro) Kizer

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Sarah Catherine Renfro, daughter of Joseph D. and Sarah (McKeown) Renfro, was born 25 December 1857 in Tennessee and died 12 December 1914 in  Cooper, Delta County, Texas. She married Jerremiah M. Kizer on 20 Oct 1876 in Delta County, Texas. He was born 26 August 1853 in Texas and died 31 January 1942 in Cooper, Delta County, Texas.

16 & 17 June 1880, Pct 1, Delta County, Texas:

156-159
Kiser, Jerry W M 26 farmer b. TX fb. TN mb. TN
-----Katharine W F 22 wife keeping house b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
-----Mary E. W F 1 Dau at home b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
Lick, Burton W M 16 servant farm laborer b. Ark fb. Ark mb. Ark

2 June 1900, Pct 1, Delta County, Texas:

34-34 Kiser Jerry Head W M b. Aug 1853 46 M 24 b. TX fb. NC mb. TN
-----Sarah C. Wife W F b. Dec 1857 42 M 24 2-2 b.TN fb. TN mb.TN
-----Mary E. Dau W F b. Aug 1878 21 M 3 b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
-----Hettie P. Dau W F b. Oct 1888 11 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TN

27 April 1910 Pct 1, Cooper, Delta County Texas:

297-287
Kizer, Jerrimiah Head M W 55 M-1 33 b. TX fb. PA mb. TN Tinner
-----Sarah Wife F W 52 M-1 33 2-2 b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
Simpson, Hettie Dau F W 22 M-1 5 1-1 b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
-----Samuel H. s-i-l M W 30 M-1 5 b. TX fb. TN mb. ARK Tinner
-----Pearle grdau F W 4 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

10,12,13 Jan 1920, Pct. 1, Sulpher Springs, Hopkins Co., TX:

243-276
Simpson, Sam H. Head M W 39 M b. TX fb. US mb. US tinner
-----Hettie Wife F W 31 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
-----Mary Pearl Dau F W 14 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----John Son M W 6 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Jerry Son M W 6 S
Kizer, Jerry f-i-l M W 65 Wd b. TX fb. NC mb. TN

9 April 1930, Sulpher Springs, Hopkins Co., TX:

213 S. Forrest St.
195-221
Simpson, Sam H. Head M W 50 M 24 b. TX fb. Ark mb. Ark
-----Hettie Wife M W 41 M 16 b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
-----J. Marshall Son M W 16 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----J. Morris Son M W 16 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TN
Kizer, Jerry M. f-i-l M W 75 Wd b. TX fb. PA mb. PA

2 April 1940, JP 1, Delta County, Texas:

7
Simpson Jerry M Head M W 26 M grade: H-2 b. TX 1935 res.: same house
-----Thelma L Wife F W 24 M grade H-3 b. TX 1935 res.: same  house
Kizer, Jerry M Grandfather M W 86 grade: 2 b. TX 1935 res: same house

Jerry M. Kizer's daughter Hettie and son-in-law Samuel H. Simpson predeceased him. Samuel died only about a week before Jerry.

Mrs. E.A. Watson's Father Died At Cooper

Jerry M. Kizer, 88, father of Mrs. E.A. Watson of this city, died at his home in Cooper Saturday, January 31. Judge and Mrs. Watson had a telegram late Friday that he was not expected to live. They left here Friday night for Cooper.

Mrs. Watson is the only living child. He had five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon and he was buried in Odd Fellows Cemetery at Cooper.

[Source: The Crosbyton Review; Crosbyton, Crosby County, Texas; Fri 6 Feb 1942]

Sarah Catherine (Renfro) and Jerry M. Kizer had two daughters:

1. Mary Etta Kizer

2. Hettie Pearl Kizer

Edith (Renfro) Stuart

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Edith Renfro, daughter of Eugene Albert and Myrtis (Rattan) Renfro, was born 4 Feb 1903 in Cooper, Texas. She married and divorced Kenneth Stuart. She and Kenneth Stuart only had one daughter, Anita (Stuart) Bridgeman. Edith (Renfro) Stuart died 2 June 1947 in Dallas, Texas and is buried in the Laurel Land Cemetery in Dallas.

2 April 1930, Vocting Pct 30, Dallas, Dallas County, Texas:

421 South ?
21-23
Renfro, Albert E. Head M W 57 M 24 b. TX fb. TN mb. TN farmer
-----Mirtis Wife F W 55 M 19 b. TX fb. IL mb. NC
Stewart, Edith Dau F W 27 D b. TX fb. TX mb. TX sales lady
-----Anita Gradau F W 4 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

Death certificate of Edith (Renfro) Stuart:

Edith Stuart of 5130 Reiger, Dallas Dallas Co., TX b. 4 Feb 1903 Cooper, TX; d. 2 June 1947 in Dallas, Dallas Co., TX. Divorced. Occupation: Asst. Buyer for Sanger Brothers. Father: E.A. Renfro b. Texas. Mother Myrtis Rattan b. TX. Informant: C.C. Renfro of 4309 Loma Alto, Dallas, TX. Burial: 3 June 1947 Laurel Land Cemetery, Dallas, Dallas Co., TX.

Obituary of Edith (Renfro) Stuart:

Stuart--Mrs. Edith. 5130 Reiger, died Monday, died Monday. Survived by daughter, Mrs. L.Z. Bridgeman, Dallas; parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.A. Renfro, Dallas; sister, Mrs. E.N. Jones, Paducah, Texas; brothers, C.C. Renfro, Dallas; R.W. Renfro, Amarillo; J.V. Renfro, Ennis. Services Tuesday, 4 p.m. Sparkman-Brand Chapel. Rev. John A. Donaho officiating. Interment: Laurel Land Memorial Park. Pallbearers: Lynn Cox, Dawson Bridgeman, James A. Kilgore, Swan Williams, B.C. Nelson, L. Goldfarb.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, Dallas Co., TX; Tues. 3 June 1947]

Wedding Announcement for daughter Anita Stuart:

Wedding of L.Z. Bridgeman, Anita Stuart Solemnized
Miss Anita Stuart, 2408 Denley Drive, daughter of Mrs. Edith Stuart of Houston, became the bride of L.Z. Bridgeman Wednesday evening in the rectory of Holy Trinity Church. Mr. Bridgeman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Bridgeman, 4306 Brown. ReThe Rev. Austin F. Minogue read the marriage ceremony. The bride was given n marriage by her mother...Mrs. Bridgeman is a graduate of Our Lady of Good Counsel School, Dallas, and Our Lady of Victory Academy, Fort Worth. The bridegroom is a graduate of Lamesa High School and a former student of the University of Denver. After a wedding trip to Mineral Well, Mr. and Mrs. Bridgeman will be at home at 3631 Oak Grove.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, Dallas, Co., TX; Thurs. 7 Feb 1946]

Obituary of Daughter Anita (Stuart) Bridgeman:

Anita Bridgeman
1925-2003
LUBBOCK -- Anita Bridgeman, a former resident of Snyder, died Monday, April 14, at her home in Lubbock. Graveside service for Mrs. Bridgeman, 77, is set for 10 a.m. Wednesday in the Resthaven Cemetery. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at Westmont Christian Church with the Rev. Clint Stephenson officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral Home.
Born June 9, 1925 in Dallas, she attended school in Dallas and graduated from Our Lady of Victory in Fort Worth. She married L.Z. “Zeke” Bridgeman on Feb. 6, 1946 in Dallas. In Snyder, Mrs. Bridgeman was a member of the First Christian Church, Snyder PTA and was a charter member of the Optimist Club. She also lived in Midland before moving to Lubbock in 1961 where she worked for Wellborn-Markham Oil and Christmann Company. She was a member of the Westmont Christian Church. Survivors include her husband, Zeke of Lubbock; two daughters, Connie Hollingshead of Lubbock and Glenna Chisum of Amarillo; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Another obituary for Anita:

Anita Stuart Bridgeman, dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully departed this life at her home on April 14, 2003 surrounded by her family. Anita Stuart, daughter of the late Kenneth and Anita [sic] Renfro Stuart, was born June 9, 1925 in Dallas, Texas. She attended school in Dallas and graduated from Our Lady of Victory in Ft.Worth, TX. She married L.Z. "Zeke" Bridgeman on February 6, 1946 in Dallas.

To their union twin daughters, Connie and Glenna, were born. Anita and Zeke lived in Snyder and Midland and eventually moved to Lubbock in 1961. Anita worked for Wellborn-Markham Oil and Christmann Company in Lubbock for many years. Anita was also involved in civic activities ranging from being a scout leader, a member of the Oil Secretaries Association, Snyder PTA, First Christian Church in Snyder, and a charter member of the Optimist Club in Snyder. After moving to Lubbock, Anita and Zeke placed membership with Westmont Christian Church where she remained active until her death. She was a true homemaker and always tended the needs of her family. Those left to mourn her passing include her husband, Zeke, of Lubbock; two daughters, Connie Hollinshead of Lubbock and Glenna Chisum of Amarillo; three precious grandchildren and their spouses, Kristin Mendez and husband Larry of Amarillo, J. Hollinshead and wife Christy of Lubbock, and Ashley Graves and husband Brent of New Home;four beloved great-grandchildren, Tyler and Channing Mendez, Savanna Graves and Jaden Hollinshead; a special friend and sister-in-law, Dina Lawrence of Lubbock; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Graveside services for Anita Stuart Bridgeman, 77, are scheduled for 10 a.m., Wednesday, April 16, 2003 at Resthaven Cemetery. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. at Westmont Christian Church with Rev. Clint Stephenson officiating.

Obituary of son-in-law L.Z. Bridgeman:

L.Z. "Zeke" Bridgeman, of Lubbock, departed this life on Friday, June 10, 2005 in Lubbock, at the age of 87 years. He was born on April 27, 1918, in Roscoe to the late James T. and Hattie Mae Byrd Bridgeman.

Mr. Bridgeman attended school in Snyder, Lubbock and graduated from Lamesa High School. After high school, he attended West Texas and Colorado State Universities. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Zeke proudly and courageously served his country during W.W. II from the beginning until the end of the war. Zeke served in Africa and was involved in the Southern Invasion of Italy. He ended his military service in Germany. He served in the 8th Corp, Second Field Artillary Observation Battalion.

Zeke married Anita Stuart on Feb. 6, 1946 in Dallas. In 1961, they moved to Lubbock from Midland, where Zeke was employed as Terminal Area Manager of Curry Motor Freight of Lubbock for 23 years. He was a member of the Rotary Club, Lubbock Transportation Club, Optimist Club in Snyder and the Red Raider Club. He was an avid football fan and a big supporter of the Red Raiders and Dallas Cowboys.

Mr. Bridgeman served as a deacon at First Christian Church in Snyder and First Christian Church in Lubbock. At the time of his death, he was a member of Westmont Christian Church.

He was preceded in death by his wife on April 14, 2003.

Those left to mourn his passing include: twin daughters, Glenna Chisum and Connie Hollinshead, both of Lubbock; three grandchildren, Kristin Mendez and husband Larry of Amarillo, J Hollinshead, and wife Christy of Lubbock, Ashley Graves and husband Brent of Amarillo; six great-grandchildren; and his beloved sister, Dina "Titcher" Lawrence, of Lubbock .

Formal visitation will be today from 5 until 7 p.m. at White Funeral Home.

Graveside service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Resthaven Memorial Park in Lubbock. Celebration of Life services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday at Westmont Christian Church with the Rev. Clint Stephenson, officiating. Arrangements are under the personal care of White Funeral Home of Lubbock.
[Source: Lubbock Avalanche Journal; Lubbock, Texas; Sun. 12 June 2005]

Connie C. Renfro

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Connie C. Renfro, son of Eugene Albert and Myrtis (Rattan) Renfro, was born in Texas. They are both buried in the Hillcrest Mausoleum, Dallas, Dallas County, Texas.

31 Jan 1920, Pct 1, Dallas, Dallas County, Texas:

4810 East Little
141-140
Traylor, Delia S. Lodger F W 37 M b. Iowa fb. Eng mb. Iowa
Renfro, Connie Boarder Head M W 26 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Ruth Boarder Wife F W 26 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

8 April 1930, Highland Park, Dallas County, Texas:

4415 Edmondson Blvd.
Renfro, C.C. Head M W 34 M 25 b.TX fb. TX mb. TX lawyer
-----Ruth Wife F W 29 M 20 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
Sharper, W. M. Servant M Neg 33 M 19 b. OK fb. OK mb. OK

-----Tiny Servant F Neg 30 M 16 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

17 April 1940, Highland Park, Dallas County, Texas:

4415 Edmondson

124

Renfro, Connie C. Head M W 46 grade: C-2 b. TX 1935 res.: same house attorney

-----Ruth Wife F W 44 M grade: H-4 b. TX 1935 res.: same house

Obituary for Connie C. Renfro:

Services Planned for C.C. Renfro
Funeral services for C.C. Renfro of 4405 Normandy, a long time Dallas attorney, will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday in East Chapel of Hillcrest Mausoleum. Entombment to follow. Mr. Renfro, who died here Tuesday, was a native of Cooper and had lived in Dallas since 1920. For many years he had law offices in Dallas and represented insurance companies. For 30 years he was attorney for the mortgage loan department of Travelers Insurance Co. of Dallas. Although he never held public office, he was active in the conservative wing of the Democratic party for many years. He was a key figure in the struggle for control of the state party in 1944, when conservatives attempted to put uninstructed electors on the ballot in a revolt against the liberal trend of the national party organization. He was president of the Dallas Bar Association in 1935 and had been a member of the Dallas Downtown Lions Club. Survivors: Wife; two brothers, R.W. Renfro and James V. Renfro of Dallas and a sister, Mrs. E.H. Jones of Paducah.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX; Thurs., 24 Dec 1964]

Obituary for Ruth Renfro:

Mrs. Ruth Renfro
Funeral Services for Mrs. Ruth Renfro, 80, of 4405 Normandy, a 57-year Dallas resident, will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in Hillcrest Mausoleum East Chapel. She died Thursday in a Dallas hospital. She is survived by one brother and one sister.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX; Sat. 13 Mar 1976]

Anita (Renfro) Jones

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Anita Renfro, daughter of Eugene Albert and Myrtis (Rattan) Renfro, was born 2 Nov 1897 in Cooper, Delta County, Texas and died 25 September 1967 in Paducah, Cottle County, Texas. She married Elzie Nugent Jones. They are buried in Garden of Memories Cemetery, Paducah, Cottle Co., TX.

18 -20 February 1920, Pct 1, Cottle County, TX:
183-189
Jones, Elzie N. Head M W 25 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Neta Wife F @ 22 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----John Dau F W 4 2/12 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Myrtis H. Dau F W 2 9/12 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Sybyl Dau F W 1 4/12 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

7 April 1930 Pct 1, Paducah, Cottle Co., TX:

200-229
Jones, Elzie M. Head M W 35 M 20 b. TX fb. US mb. TX
-----Annetia Wife F W 32 M 17 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Florine Dau F W 13 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Mirtis Dau F W 13 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Sybil Dau F W 11 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

13 April 1940, Pct 1, Cottle Co., TX:
236 10th Street
Jones Elzie N Head M W 45 M grade: 5 b. TX 1935 res: same house
-----Neta Wife F W 42 M grade: H1 b. TX 1935 res: same house
-----Myrtis Dau F W 23 S grade: H4 b. TX 1935 res: same house
-----Sybil Dau F W 21 S grade: H4 b. TX 1935 res: same house


Anita Renfro Jones b. 2 Nov 1897 Cooper, Texas; d. 25 Sept 1965 Paducah, Cottle County, Texas. Widowed. Father: E.A. Renfro. Mother: Myrtis Rattan. Informant: Mrs. Johnnie Leathers. Burial: 26 Sept 1965, Garden of Memories Cemetery, Paducah, Cottle Co., TX.
[source: death certificate]

Anita Renfro Jones shares a tombstone with Elzie Nugent Jones b. 28 Sep 1894 d. 10 June 1958.

Roscoe Conklin Renfro

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Roscoe Conklin Renfro, son of Eugene Albert and Myrtis (Rattan) Renfro, was born 2 Oct 1895 in Cooper, Texas and died 15 Mar 1942. He married Flossie Wilson. They are both buried in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Paducah, Cottle County, Texas.

Roscoe Conkling Renfro, address Sneedville, TX, b. 2 Oct 1895 Cooper, Texas, wife and one child
[Source: WWI draft registration card]

10 Sept 1920, JCT 2, Cottle Co., TX:

202-246

Renfrow, Roscoe C. Head M W 24 M b. TX fb. tX mb. TX

-----Flossie Wife F W 19 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

-----Elrae Son M W 2 11/12 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

10 April 1930, Paducah, Cottle Co., TX:

Richardson St.

346-377

Renfro, Roscoe C Head M W 32 M 18 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

-----Flossie Wife F W 34 M 17 b. TX fb. TX. mb. TX

-----Elro son M W 13 S b. TX fb. TX. mb. TX

-----Roscoe C Jr. son M W 9 S b. TX fb. TX. mb. TX

-----Joyce daughter F W 7 S b. TX fb. TX. mb. TX

-----Billie J. son M W 4 3/12 S b. TX fb. TX. mb. TX

Anderson, Dell Lodger F W 24 S b. TX fb. US mb. US

22 April 1940, Prect 31, Paducah, Cottle County, Texas:

422 Easley St.

Renfro, Roscoe C head M W 44 M grade H4 b. TX 1935 res. same place

-----Flossie [informant] wife F W 40 M grade H3 b. TX res. same place

-----Joyce daughter F W 17 S grade H3 b. TX 1935 res. same place

-----Billie J son M W 14 S grade 7 b. TX 1935 res. same place

Death certificate for Roscoe C. Renfro:

Roscoe Conklin Renfro b. 2 Oct 1895 TX; d. 15 Mar 1942. Paducah, Cottle Co., TX. Married. Father: E.A. Renfro b. TX. Mother: Myrtis Rattan b. TX. Informant C.C. Renfro of Dallas, TX. Burial 16 March , Paducah, Cottle Co., TX

Death certificate for daughter Florence Joyce Renfro:

Florence Joyce Renfro b. 31 March 1923 in Paducah, Texas; d. 5 Nov 1965 in Paducah, Cottle Co., TX. Divorced. Father: Roscoe Renfro. Mother: Flossie Wilson. Burial: Garden of Memories Cem., 6 Nov 1965, Paducah, Texas.

E.A. Renfro Family Migration

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

This is the recollection of Eugene Albert Renfro of Delta and Cottle Counties, Texas. At the time he related this information he was living in Dallas, Texas. My commentary follows it.

Pioneer Tells of Dallas as Country Town

E.A. Renfro Helped Develop Two Counties

Land $2 an Acre

Sixteen Sections Offered for Each New Mile or Railroad

By W.S. Adair

"I have played the role of pioneer in two counties in Texas, Delta and Cottle, and within a period that does not seem to me to be at all long," said E.A. Renfro, 807 South Tyler avenue. "My father, J.W. Renfro, with a party made up of ten or fifteen families, left the ancient seat of the Renfros in West Tennessee in 1847 and set out for Texas. These people had found it such uphill work getting a new start on the worn-out soil of Tennessee after the ravages of the war that they concluded to try a new country. They traveled like the nomads of prehistoric times, with oxen as motive power. Much of the way was at that time uncharted, and their covered wagons rolled along for six weeks before they reached Delta County, Texas, their destination. They camped wherever night overtook the them, taking things as patiently and leisurely as did their oxen. Often, without a querulous note, they would wait a whole week for a swollen stream to run down to a fordable stage.

"They were welcomed to Delta County by Volney Rattan, the oldest citizen. Delta County, which lies between the two forks of Sulpher River, has something of the shape of the Greek letter delta and from that topographical circumstance derives its name. I can not recall when the county was organized, but it is safe to say that some one at the christening had at least a smattering of Greek. Mr. Rattan, the John Neely Bryan of that region, lived to see the whole country blossom like the rose, and died only twelve years ago. The had of each  family in our party was, under the land laws of the time, when the State had more out-of-doors than it very well knew what to do with, entitled to 160 acres. They picked out their farms and lost no time in perfecting their titles to them. Mr. Rattan telling them how to go about it.

Very Place They Were Looking For

"The soil of Delta County was of surpassing fertility, but that helped little so long as there was no way of getting produce to the distant markets. The settlers, however, soon discovered that they could get along without markets and without much farming. They had been accustomed in Tennessee to toil and moil early and late in order to make a living, where in Texas they could live off the bounty of nature. The country was full of game, the native grass kept rolling fat all the cattle they could get hold of, and the mast in the woods supported great numbers of hogs. All they had to do to furnish forth the table was to find bread. The hides and furs which they acquired incidentally in getting their meat and in ridding the country of predatory animals they hauled to Jefferson or Shreveport and exchanged for such supplies as they could not produce at home. In fact, they found Texas to be the very country they had been looking for.

"I was born in Delta County in 1856, and can therefore remember when the country was all open range, and the people lived after the frontier fashion. Father traded in hides and furs, and made frequent wagon trips to Jefferson, the only big city we knew anything about. From the first settlers cultivated each a little land, which they were obliged to fence, in order to protect their crops from the cattle and horses which ran at large, and long before there were any railroads they began to grow a little cotton, which they hauled all the way to Jefferson. They broke the prairie sod with an old Cary plow, with more oxen hitched to it than a very small boy could count, dropping by hand corn or cotton seed in every fourth furrow as they proceeded with the breaking, and then paid no more attention to the crop until harvest time arrived, for the weeds did not appear for a year or two in new ground; or were there any of the crop pests we hear so much about in more recent times. Mr. Rattan, who had come from Illinois, had been followed to Texas by some of his old neighbors, who were to be distinguished from settlers who had not come from the old Southern States by the fact that they used horses and mules for draft purposes instead of the more lowly ox, the stand-by of men of the South, and by the fact that they knew more about farming than our people.

"We pressed what cotton we made in the old-time tread-wheel gin. The original tread-wheel gin, operated by oxen, had a capacity of two bales a day, but the improved gin, operated by horses or mules, designed to speed up things, turned out six to eight bales. The early-day farmer cut his wheat and oats with a cradle, separated the grain from the straw by walking horses over it, and then dispersed the chaff to the winds by means of a hand-tured [sic] fan. After the Trans-Continental Railroad was completed, we found a market at Paris, and no longer went to Jefferson, and a few years later Sulpher Springs got a railroad, and the Santa Fe and Mr. Green's Mid-land road established stations at Pecan Gap and Ben Franklin, in the northwestern corner of the county. But Cooper, the county seat, did not get a railroad until 1896.

"When I was a child the big settlements of North Texas were in Collin County. McKinney, Sherman and Paris were the towns we heard most about. Paris, one of the oldest towns, as I understood, was at first called Pinhook. I am unable to say how it got that unimportant name, or when or why it was changed to Paris. As a boy I heard nothing of Dallas.

"I well remember the time when the finest land in Delta County was to be had for $2 an acre. To be exact, in 1885, father was offered a tract 200 acres of it at that figure, but, after due deliberation, declined to take it. The same land has since sold for $250 an acre. The lands of Delta County are now practically in cultivation, right up to the banks of the streams, but they long ago began to show signs of failure, and do produce as they once did.

Rides in a Mule Car

"I did not see Dallas until 1890, I left the train at the old Union Depot,  Pacific and Central avenues, walked over to Main street, and took a passage on a mule car to come downtown. The hotels were the Grand Windsor, the St. George and the St. James. I selected the St. George, which as I remember, was a three-story structure, about 100x100 feet, just the Main street part of the present St. George property. Dallas was a mere country town in comparison with what it is today. About that time father subscribed for The Dallas News, and it has been my favorite newspaper ever since. In those days they subscriber could read The News through in a few minutes, whereas now it takes all week to read the Sunday edition.

"The true frontiersman was always on the lookout for a new country to grow up with, and when he found it he was still on the lookout, forgetful of the growing up part. In 1901 father moved to Cottle County and I followed him in 1906. We were both aware that it was laid down in the text books on agriculture in Texas that farming could not be successfully prosperous in that part of Texas lying west of the 100th meridian, which includes Cottle County. There was, however, no question as to the fertility of the land. The trouble was that it never rained; and, judging the future by the past, the writers of the textbooks had made the country over to the cattlemen forever. The land was so easily broken that settlers were tempted to give it a trial, to find that under good conditions it would produce anywhere from one to two bales of cotton to the acre, and milo maize and kafir corn galore. At first we had to haul our cotton fifty miles to Childress or to Quanah, in order to get it ginned. The teamsters charged us $9 a bale for hauling it, and made no money even at that figure, unless they could get freight to haul back.

We Move Once More

"After the farmers got to stirring the soil, the amount of rainfall began to increase and the seasons have steadily become more favorable, and the price of land has steadily advanced. Farmers are taking the land and putting it in cultivation as fast as the cattlemen make up their minds to turn it loose; a few sections at a time. There are, however, still some big ranches in the county, including the Matador, the Moon ranch, Swenson's, the Three D's, Three Stripes and a number of smaller ones. The cattle on these ranches either full-blood or high-grade Herefords, multiply and flourish famously on the native grasses, though almost all the ranchmen grow milo maize and kafir corn to help out the grass in case of need.

"There is no doubt, however, that the man with the hoe will in no long time have the entire country reduced to small farms and will have converted what was twenty years ago considered a hopeless desert into a land blooming like a garden of roses. Paducah, the county seat of Cottle, has the trade of a large territory and is growing rapidly."

"Not long ago Texas was offering 160 acres of land to every man who would settle in the State, and giving Eastern capitalists sixteen sections of perfectly good land for every mile of railroad they would construct in the State, and the largest town in North Texas could not muster 5,000 population. That time seems only yesterday to me. At the present rate of increase Dallas will easily show a population of $500,000 in ten years."

[Source:  Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX; Sun. 9 Oct 1927]

Commentary:  A few of the dates in E.A. Renfro's account are in error. The Renfros removed to Texas long after 1847. In 1850 Joseph D. Renfro and family were still in Gibson Co., TN. In that year, James W. Renfro, Eugene Albert Renfro's father was only seven years old. In 1847, he would have been even younger - four. Notice that in the next sentence, he states that the soil in Tennessee was played out and "after the ravages of the war that they concluded to try a new country." That would make their departure date closer to 1867, which is very reasonable. We know that Joseph D. Renfro was in Dunklin Co., Missouri in 1860 while his wife Sarah was in Gibson Co., TN. Since his son James W. Renfro married in Gibson Co., TN in 1865, it is not unreasonable to think that Joseph D. Renfro and children had returned to Gibson Co., TN and departed from Tennessee for Texas.

E.A. Renfro would have us believe that they went straight to Delta County, Texas. We know, however, that they settled in Hopkins County, Texas by 1870. They were not in Delta Co., TX until about 1873. The old man Rattan that E.A. Renfro refers to was Volney C. Rattan, a pioneer settler of Delta, Co., Texas, who had also lived previously in Hopkins County. Even more interesting is that fact that Volney Rattan was E.A. Renfro's father-in-law.

E. A. Renfro was not born in Delta County, Texas in 1856. His parents did not even marry until 1865 in Gibson County, Tennessee. E.A. Renfro was born in 1872 in Delta County, Texas. The dates in his account become more accurate when he discusses the Renfro's move to Cottle County, Texas.

Dates aside, E.A. Renfro's recollection is rich in details of their daily lives. Evidently, he listened to the stories of his family but garbled details like dates.

Alma L. (Whittenburg) Bingham

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Alma Loraine Renfro, daughter of Lillie Mae (Renfro) and Eugene Kerr Whittenburg, was born 19 Nov 1910 in Texas and died 14 June 2012 in Anson, Texas. She married Charles Dorsey Bingham in 1927. He was born 17 November 1906 and died 28 November 1987. They are both buried in Neinda Cemetery, Neinda, Jones County, Texas.

15 April 1930, Pct 5, Jones Co., TX:

159-159
Bingham Dorsey C Head M W 23 M 22 b. TX fb. MS mb TX
-----Alma L Dau F W 19 M 18 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

12 April 1940, JP 5, Jones Co., TX:

155
Bingham Dorsey Head M W 33 M grade: H4 b. TX 1935 res: same house
-----Alma Wife F W 29 M grade: H4 b. TX 1935 res: same house
-----Bobbie Son M W 4 b. TX 1935 res: same house

Obituary of Alma Loraine Bingham:

Anson, Tx - Alma Loraine "Hoot" Bingham, 101 passed away at Valley View Nursing Home in Anson, Texas, on June 14, 2012. Services will be 11:00 am Saturday June 16, 2012 at the First United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Directed by Adams-Graham Funeral Home. Ms. Bingham was born to Kerr Eugene Whittenburg and Lillie Renfro Whittenburg on November 19, 1910, near Boyds Chapel, Texas. Her brother, Clarence "Whit" Whittenburg was born on her seventh birthday and were very close throughout their lives. She attended Boyds Chapel School and enjoyed basketball. She graduated Nienda High School and married Charlie Dorsey Bingham in 1927. They were blessed with a son Bobby Eugene Bingham. She is preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Mr. C. D. Bingham, and her grandson Pryce David Bingham. Hoots began the children's lunch program at Boyds Chapel School and later at Anson High School. As a devoted mother she remained involved with Hardin-Simmons Cowboy activities as Bobby studied to be a band director. She then worked as Deputy County Clerk for Jones County from 1962 to 2977.  She leaves behind her son, Bobby E. Bingham, her granddaughter, Stephany Bingham Drennon, her loving ward Karen Ashworth Magill, a nephew Larry Whittenburg, two nieces Marcia Whittenburg Boyd and Kathey Whittenburg Longorio, a grand niece Angela van Buskirk and two great grand nieces Maddie and Dawn van Buskirk. She will live on in the hearts of many dear loved ones and beloved friends.

In lieu of flowers, friends are invited to donate to M. D. Anderson Cancer Center or the charity of their choice.

Lillie (Renfro) Whittenburg

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Lillie Mae Renfro, daughter of John M. and Mary Ann (Harmon) Renfro, was born 17 Sept 1891 in Texas and died 16 March 1983. She married Eugene K. Whittenburg. He was born 29 Jan 1890 and died 7 Oct 1952 in Ft. Worth, Texas. They are both buried in the Neinda Cemetery, Hamlin, Jones County Texas. 

4 May 1910, PCT 6, Haskell Co., TX:

173-173
Whittenburg, Eugene C. Head M 0 19 M-1 0 b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
-----Lillie M Wife F W 17 M-1 0 0-0 b. TX fb. TN mb. TX

5 March 1920, Pct 5, Jones Co., TX, SD 17, ED 134, Sht ?B:
249-259
Whittenburg Eugene K. Head M W 30 M b. TX fb. TN mb. TX farmer
5 - 6 March 1920Pct 5, Jones Co., TX, SD 17, ED 134, sht 15A, stamped 180
-----Lillie Wife F W 28 M b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
-----Alma Dau F W 9 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Clarence Son M W 3 1/3 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
250-260 Cozzens, Lorenzo P...

[Notation: census taker evidently became confused as to sheet numbers. Both pages on which Eugene and Lillie appear show sheet number erasures, which is critical since Eugene is on one page and his wife on the following page. The result is that Eugene has been given another wife, Ava, and children. However, in looking at the dwelling and family numbers, Lillie and her children are in the same household as Eugene not Ava and her children.]

15 April 1930, Pct 5, Jones Co., Texas:

181-181
Whittenburg, Eugene K Head M W 40 M 20 b. TX fb. TN mb. TX farmer
-----Lillie M Wife F W 38 M 18 b. TX fb. GA mb. GA
-----Clarence E Son M W 12 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

Eugene Kerr Whittenburg b. 29 Jan 1890 TX; d. 10 July 1952 Ft. Worth, Tarrant Co., TX. Residence: Hamlin, TX. Occupation: Farmer. Married. Father: Wesley Whittenburg b. TN. Mother: Allie Patterson b. TX. Informant: C.E. Whittenburg. Burial: 11 July 1952, Neinda Cemetery, Hamlin, Jones County, TX.
[Source: death certificate]

Children of Eugene K. and Lillie (Mae) Whittenburg:

1. Alma Whittenburg
2. Clarence Whittenburg

Eugene Albert Renfro

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Eugene Albert Renfro, born 12 June 1872 in Cooper, Delta County, Texas, was the son of James W. and Julia (Smith) Renfro. He married Myrtis Rattan in Delta County, Texas on 8 Dec 1892. He gave a lengthy and interesting account of his family's migration, which will be recounted here.

8 June 1900, Pct 1, Delta County, Texas:

168-170
Renfro Albert Head W M b. Jun 1872 27 M 7 b. TX fb. TN mb. GA
-----Myrtis Wife F W b. Feb 1874 M 7 4-4 b. TX fb. IL mb. TX
-----Connie Son W M b. Nov 1893 6 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Rasco Son W M b. Oct 1895 4 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Anita Dau W F b. Nov 1897 2 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Waldo Son W M b. Feb 1900 S b. TX fb. TX mb. -

27 April 1910, Pct 2, Cottle Co., Texas:

106-106
Renfrow, E Ab Head M W 37 M-1 b. TX fb. TN mb. TN
-----Myrtis Wife F W 35 M-1 17 6-6 b. TX fb. IL mb. KY
-----Connie son M W 16 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Rases C son M W 14 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Aneta Daughter F W 12 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Ralph W son M W 10 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Edith Daughter F W 7 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----James V son M W 2 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

12 Feb 1920, Paducah, Cottle County, Texas:

50-54

Renfro, Albert E. Head M W 48 M b. TX fb. TN mb. TN

-----Myrtis Wife F W 45 M b. TX fb. IL mb. TX

-----James B. Renfro Son M W 12 S b.TX fb. TX mb. TX

-----Waldo R. Son M W 20 ? b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

2 April 1930, Vocting Pct 30, Dallas, Dallas County, Texas:

421 South ?

21-23

Renfro, Albert E. Head M W 57 M 24 b. TX fb. TN mb. TN farmer

-----Mirtis Wife F W 55 M 19 b. TX fb. IL mb. NC

Stewart, Edith Dau F W 27 D b. TX fb. TX mb. TX sales lady

-----Anita Gradau F W 4 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

5 April 1940, JP 7, Dallas, Dallas County, Texas:

421 S Winnettka

124

Rinfro, E.A. Head M W 67 M grade: C2 b. TX 1935 res: same house

-----Myrtle Wife F W 65 M grade: H4 b. TX 1935 res: same house

-----J.V. Son M W 32 S grade: H1 b. TX res 1935: same house

Death Certificate for Eugene Albert Renfro:

Eugene Albert Renfro b. 12 June 1872 Cooper, Texas; d. 10 April 1950 Dallas, Dallas County, TX. Married. Occupation: retired teacher. Father: J.W. Renfro b. TN. Mother: Julia Smith b. TN. Informant: C.C. Renfro. Burial: Laurel Land Cemetery, Dallas, Texas

[Source: death certificate]

Obituary for Eugene Albert Renfro:

Renfro, Eugene Albert, 2408 South Denley Dr., died Monday. Survived by wife, Mrs. Eugene Renfro; sons, C.C., R.W. and J.V. Renfro, all of Dallas; daughter Mrs. E.N. Jones, Paducah, KY.; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren. Private services Tuesday, 2 p.m. Sparkman-Brand Chapel, Dr. Wallace Bassett officiating. Interment Laurel Land Cemetery. Pallbearers: James A. Kilgore, John C. Cox Jr., John C. Lumpkin, J.W. Fry, Earl Combest, Clarence Dean.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX.; Tues. 11 April 1950]

This more informative obituary appeared in The Paducah Post on 13 April 1950:

Death Certificate for Myrtis (Rattan) Renfro:

Myrtis Renfro b. 22 Jan 1875 Cooper, Texas; d. 14 June 1959 Dallas, Dallas County, Texas. Widowed. Occupation: housewife. Father: Volney Rattan. Mother: Adelaid Bradley. Informant: Mrs. C.C. Renfro. Burial: Laurel Land Cemetery, Dallas, Dallas Co., TX, 16 May 1959.

Obituary for Myrtis (Rattan) Renfro:

Renfro,

Mrs. Myrtis, 4053 Travis. Survived by sons, C.C., R.W., and J.V. Renfro all of Dallas; daughter Mrs. Anita Jones, Paducah, Texas; brother, Sterling Rattan, Cooper, Texas; sister, Mrs. B.F. Tippen, Paducah; several grandchildren; two great-grandchildren. Arrangements pending. Sparkman's. 2115 Ross Ave.

[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX; Mon. 15 June 1959]

Mr. and Mrs. Gene Moss and Mrs. Owen Hooten returned from Dallas where they attended the funeral of Mrs. Moss' aunt, Mrs. Myrtis Renfro. Her brother, Sterling Rattan was unable to be at the service.

[Source: The Paris News; Paris, TX; Tues., 23 June 1959]

Children of Eugene Albert and Myrtis (Rattan) Renfro:

1. Connie C. Renfro
2. Roscoe C Renfro
3. Anita Renfro
4. Ralph Waldo Renfro
5. Edith Renfro
6. James V. Renfro

Last updated August 3, 2015

Richard B. Renfro

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Richard Bennett Renfro, born 31 Aug 1874 in Texas, was the son of James W. and Julia (Smith) Renfro. He married Lucy Foster on 14 Oct 1894 in Delta County, Texas.

18 June 1900, Pct 1, Delta County, Texas:

341-349
Renfro, Richard Head W M b. Aug 1875 25 M 5 b. TX fb. TN mb. TN farmer
-----Lucy Wife  W F Oct 1878 21 M 5 2-1 b. TX fb. - mb. -
-----Leonard Son W M Oct 1896 3 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

27 April 1910; Prect. 2, Cottle County Texas:

108-108
Renfro, James W Head M W 68 M-1 44 b. TN fb. TN mb. TN farmer
----- Julia A Wife F W 61 M-1 44 5-3 b. Al fb. AL mb. AL
Stone, Shelby  M W 24 M-1 8/12 b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
----- Nana A Granddaughter F W 14 M-1 8/12 b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
109-109
Renfro, Richard B Head M W 36 M-1 16 b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----Lucy L. Wife F  33 M-1 16 b. MS fb. MS mb. MS
-----Lulie L. ? M W 14 S b. TX fb. TX mb. MS
-----Carnie C son M  9 S b. TX fb. TX mb. MS
-----William C son M W 5 S b. TX fb. TX mb. MS

18 June 1900, Pct. 1, Delta County, Texas:

341-349
Renfro, Richard Head W M Aug 1874 25 M 5 b. TX fb. TN mb. TN farmer
-----Lucy Wife W F b. Oct 1878 21 M 5 2-1 b. TX
-----Leonard son W M Oct 1896 3 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

1918:

Richard Bennett Renfro of Sneedville, Cottle County, Texas, age 44, b. 31 Aug 1874, farming, contact: Mrs. Lucy Renfro
[WWI draft registration card]

2 March 1920, Paducah, Cottle County Texas, p. 234:

241
Renfro Richard B. Head M W 45 M b. TX fb. TN mb. TN farmer
-----Lucy Wife F W 42 M b. TX fb. MS mb. MS
-----Lenard R. son M W 24 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Connie son M W 19 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Calvin son M W 16 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Lucile Dau F W 13 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Johnie Dau F W 10 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Cora M. Dau F W 8 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----R.B. Jr. Son M W 6 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

1930 Chaves County, New Mexico:

114 Sixth St.
181-241
Butler, Lucille Head F W 23 M 19 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Billy Joe son M W 2 ?/12 S b. TX fb. Al mb. TX
Renfro Cal Head M W 26 M 25 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Irene wife F W 19 M 18 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Norma C son M W 5/12 S b. OK fb. TX mb. TX
Renfro, Cora Mae sister F W 19 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Johnnie sister F W 21 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----R.B. father M W 54 Wd b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----R. B. brother M W 15 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

Death record of Richard Bennett Renfro:

Richard Bennett Renfro d. 9 July 1933 in Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico age 58
father: James Renfro mother: Julia wife: Lucy Forlier Renfro
[Source: New Mexico Deaths, family search.org]

Renfro burials in South Park Cemetery; Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico:

Richard Bennett Renfro b. 31 Aug, 1874; d. 1933, bur. South Park Cemetery, Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico
Leonard L. Renfro b. 21 Oct. 1895; d. 16 Jun 1975; bur. South Park Cemetery, Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico.
Commie C. Renfro b. 1902; d. 1941; bur. South Park Cemetery, Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico.
Richard Bennett Renfro Jr. b. 23 Dec 1913 Cottle Co., TX; d. Apr 1976; bur. bur. South Park Cemetery, Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico.
Richard Land Renfro [son of Louie Leonard Renfro] b. 28 May 1922; d. 15 Apr 2007; bur. South Park Cemetery, Roswell, Chaves County, New Mexico.

Floyd Lane Renfro

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

Floyd Lane, son of John M. Renfro and Mary Ann Harmon, was born on 16 November 1890 in Cooper, Delta County, Texas. He married Jettie Carter.

Floyd Lane Renfro's WWI registration card states he was of McCaulley, Jones Co., TX, b. 16 Nov 1890 in Cooper, TX and that he had a wife and one child.

17 & 19 1920, Prct 5, Jones County, Texas:

62-64
Renfro, John M Head M W 68 M b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
-----Mollie wife F W 59 M b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
63-65
-----William J. head M W 30 M b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
-----Mary wife F W 26 M b. TX fb. US mb. US
-----Naomi daughter F W 9 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
64-66
-----Floyd F Head M W 26 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----J? wife F W 23 M b. TX fb. US mb. US
-----Pauline daughter F W ? S b. TX fb. TX mb. ?
65-67
-----John Jr. Head M W 23 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
Renfro Nannie? wife F W 20 M b. TX fb. US mb. US

7 April 1930, Pct 1, Jones County, Texas:

Renfro, Floyd L Head M W 36 M 19 b. TX fb. US mb. US
-----Jatee wife F W 34 M 17 b. TX fb. GA mb. US
-----Pauline daughter F W 14 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Harlie son M W 8 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----Fay daughter F W 1 8/12 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX

1940, Knox City, Pct 5, Knox County Texas:

Floyd L Renfro Head M 45 b. TX 1935 res: Hamlin, Texas
Jettie Renfro wife F 44 b. TX
Harley Renfro son M 18 b. TX
Faye Renfro daughter F 11 b. TX
Sam L Cooper s-i-l M 27 b.TX
Pauline Cooper d-i-l F 24 b. TX

Corrected birth certificate for Carrie Pauline Renfro, b. 23 Jan 1916 in rural Jones County, Texas. Father: Floyd Lane Renfro. Mother: Jettie Carter. Correction requested by mother Jettie Renfro of 409 North 6th, Brownfield, Texas on 13 Feb 1969
[Source: amended birth certificate]

Death certificate for Jettie Renfro:

Jettie Renfro d. 15 Jan 1974 in Brownfield, Terry County, Texas where she had been a resident for 27 years. b. 21 April 1895 in Fannin County, Texas. Married. Father: Jefferson Thomas Carter. Mother: Carrie Catherine McMillan. Informant: Mrs. Pauline Taylor, daughter. Burial: Terry County Memorial Cem, Brownfield, Terry County, Texas on 17 Jan 1974
[Source: death certificate]

F.L. Renfro is also buried in Terry County Memorial Cem in Brownfield, Terry County, Texas. b. 16 Nov 1893, d. 21 Sep 1976

Death certificate of Floyd Lane Renfro:

Floyd Lane Renfro, b. 16 Nov 1892, Cooper, TX; d. 21 Sept 1976, Brownfield, TX. Occupation: Furniture Dealer. Father: John Maddison Renfro. Mother: Molly Ann Harmon. Informant: Faye Garner, daughter. Burial: Terry County Memorial Cemetery, Brownfield, Texas.
[Source: death certificate]

Obituary for Floyd Lane Renfro:

Services for F.L. "Butch" Renfro, 83, of Brownfield will be at 2:30 p.m. today in Brownfield Funeral Home Memorial Chapel with Rev. Pat Cummins, pastor of First Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Terry County Memorial Cemetery. Renfro died at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday in Brownfield General Hospital after a lengthy illness. Born in Cooper, he grew up in Hamlin, and married Jettie Carter on Dec. 24, 1912, in Neinda. She died in 1974. They moved to Lubbock in the early 1930s, to Plainview n 1940, and to Brownfield in 1943. He was a furniture dealer prior to his retirement. Survivors include a son, Harley of Midland; two daughters Mrs. Gene (Pauline) Taylor of Brownfield and Mrs. Bunk (Faye) Garner of Spur; a sister, Mrs. Lilly Whittenburg of Hamlin; and three grandchildren.
[Source: Lubbock Avalanche Journal; Lubbock, Texas; Wed., 22 Sept 1976]

Obituary for daughter Carrie Pauline (Renfro) Cooper Taylor:

Pauline "Polly" Taylor, 92, of Spur and formerly of Brownfield, died Saturday Feb 23, 2008 at White River Care Center in Spur. Services will be 1 p.m. , Monday Feb 25, 2008 at Campbell Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Larry Burton officiating. Interment will be in Spur Memorial Cemetery. Polly was born Jan. 23, 1916 to Floyd and Jettie Carter Renfro in Neinda, Texas. She was a graduate of Hamlin High School, and a member of the Methodist church. Polly was very active in the Rebekah Lodge, American Cancer Society and Bluebonnets as well as many other organizations over the years. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Gene Taylor in 2007; and one brother Harley Renfro. She is survived by one sister, Faye Garner of Spur; one niece, Patricia Geeslin of Lubbock; one nephew, Bunky Garner of Austin; one step-daughter, Jean Biernachi of Nebraska; one step-son, Mike Taylor of Wichita, Kan.; and 16 grandchildren. The family suggests memorials to a charity of your choice.
[Source: Lubbock Avalanche Journal; Lubbock, TX; Mon. 25 Feb. 2008]

Obituary for son-in-law Gene Taylor:

Ray Eugene "Gene" Taylor, 84, of Brownfield died Tuesday, Jan. 2007. Graveside services will be Thursday, Jan. 11, 2007, at Spur Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Larry Burton officiating. Serivces are under the direction of Campbell Funeral Home in Spur. Gene was born March 16, 1922, in Upper Sandusky, Ohio to Howard and Celeste Clinger Taylor. He had lived in Brownfield for the last 40 years, where he retired from the City of Brownfield. Gene was a WWII Army veteran and was a very active member in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for many years. He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Pauline Taylor of Brownfield; two sons, Michael Taylor and wife Connie and Stephen Taylor; one daughter, Jean Biernachi and husband Phillip; four brothers; five sisters; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and one special sister-in-law, Faye Garner of Spur.
[Source: Lubbock Avalanche Journal; Lubbock, TX; Thurs. 11 Jan 2007]

Obituary for daughter-in-law Virginia Barkley Renfro:

Virginia Barkley Renfro
Spearman- Virginia Barkely Renfro, 87, died Friday, May 16, 1997.
Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Monday in Hansford Cemetery with the Rev. Jeff Lust, pastor of First United Methodist Church, officiating. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home. Mrs. Renfro was born in Hansford. She had lived in the Spearman area for 14 years, moving from Midland. She married Harley Renfro in 1955 at Lubbock. He died in 1983. She was a graduate of Texas Woman's University in Denton. She retired from the civil service and was a member of First United Methodist Church. Survivors include two sisters, Reba B. Huffines of Amarillo and Gertrude B. Archer of Spearman; and a brother, Freeman Barkley of Spearman.
[Source: Amarillo Online Newspaper obits]

John M. Renfro

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

John Murphy Renfro, son of Joseph D. Renfro and Sarah Dial, was born 22 April 1852 in Tennessee. He married Emiline E. Dial on 4 Dec 1873 in Delta County, Texas. She was evidently deceased by 1880.

16 June 1880, Pct 4, Delta County, TX:

202-211
Renfrow, John M W M 28 widowed farmer b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
-----Redey U. W F 5 daughter b. TX b. TN mb. TN

20 April 1900, Pct 1, Delta County, TX:

430-440
Renfro, Jno W Head W M Apr 1862 44 M 15 b. TN fb. TN mb. un
-----Mollie Wife W F Aug 1860 39 M 15 5-5 b. TX fb. TN mb. ALS
Renfro Nannie Dau W F Nov 1886 13 S b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----William Son W M Feb 1889 11 S b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----Lillie Dau W F Sep 1891 8 S b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----Floyd Son W M No 1892 7S b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----John Son W M Jan 1896 4 S
?ill Klaris hirehand W M - - M S b. un fb. un mb. un

18 April 1910, Just. Pct. 5, Jones County, Texas:

46-46
Renfro, Willie Head M W 21 M-1 0 b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
-----Mary wife F W 16 M-1 0 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
47-47
Renfro, J.M. Head M W 58 M-2 23 b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
-----Mary Wife F W 50 M-2 23 5-5 b. TX fb. US mb. US
-----Floyd son M W 16 S b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
-----Johnie Son M W 14 S b. TX fb. TN mb. TX

17 & 19 1920, Prct 5, Jones County, Texas:

62-64
Renfro, John M Head M W 68 M b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
-----Mollie wife F W 59 M b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
63-65
-----William J. head M W 30 M b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
-----Mary wife F W 26 M b. TX fb. US mb. US
-----Naomi daughter F W 9 S b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
64-66
-----Floyd F Head M W 26 M b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
-----J? wife F W 23 M b. TX fb. US mb. US
-----Pauline daughter F W ? S b. TX fb. TX mb. ?
65-67
-----John Jr. Head M W 23 b. TX fb. TX mb. TX
Renfro Nannie? wife F W 20 M b. TX fb. US mb. US

7 April 1930, Prct 5, Hamlin, Jones County, Texas:

150-159
Renfro John M Head $1,600 M W 78 Wd b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
Cooper, Reba E daughter F W 55 M 17 b. TX fb. TN mb. TN

6 April 1940, Wichita Falls State Hospital (formerly Northwest Texas Insane Hospital) Wichita County, TX:

Renfro, John M Patient M W 88 Wd b. TN 1935 res: same house

Death certificate:

John Murphy Renfro, widowed,  death certificate #21390, b. 22 April 1852 in TN, d. Wichita Falls State Hospital, Hamlin, Wichita Co., TX, 16 April 1940. Father = J.D. Renfro b. TN. Mother = Sarah Dial b. TN, informant = hospital records, buried Hamlin, TX

John M Renfro b. 1852 - d. 1940 buried in Neinda Cemetery, Neinda, Jones County, Texas beside wife
Mary A Renfro b. 1862 - d. 1925

Children of John M. Renfro and Emiline E. Dial:

1. Redey U. [Reba E.] Renfro b. 1875 TX

Children of John M. Renfro and Mary Ann Harmon:

2. Nannie Renfro b. 1886 TX
3. William Renfro b. 1889 TX
4. Lillie Renfro b. 1891 TX
5. Floyd Renfro b. 1892 TX
6. John Renfro b. 1896 TX

James W. Renfro

© Kathy Duncan, 2015

James W. Renfro, son of Joseph D. Renfro and Sarah Dial, was born 15 Feb 1841 in Gibson County, Tennessee. He married Julia Smith on 10 Oct 1865 in Gibson County, Tennessee. His son Albert was interviewed in the early 1900s and presented valuable information about James W. Renfro's migration to Texas, but many of the dates are inaccurate. That interview can be read here.

14 Sept. 1870; Prc #5, Charleston, Hopkins Co., TX; p. 172:

94-94
Renfro, Joseph D. 57 M W Farmer $0-$120 b. TN
-----John M 19 M W Farm laborer b. TN
-----Joseph S 15 M W Farm laborer b. TN
-----Sarah C 12 F W at home b. TN
Renfro, James 27 M W Farmer $1,000-$100 b. TN
-----Julia 25 F W Keeping house b. TN
-----William 3 M W b. TN

12 June 1880; Pct #4, Delta Co., TX, p. 520:

163-69
Renfrow, James W. W M 37 Farmer b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
-----Julia A. W F 31 Wife Keeping house b. AL fb. AL mb. AL
-----William J. W M 12 son attending school scrofula b. TN fb. TN mb. AL
-----Martha L. W F 10 Daughter attending school b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----Albert W M 7 Son attending school b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----Alfred W M 7 son attending school b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----Richard B. W M 5 son b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
Jones, George W M 22 Hireling Farm hand b. TX

In 1899, son Alfred was killed and it appears that Alfred's children may gone to live with their grandparents, James W. and Julia Renfro.

Shot in the Back
Cooper, Tex., July 10--Last night as Alf Renfro, who lives on Craig prairie, three miles east of Cooper, was going home from church, some unknown person rode up behind him and shot him twice, one shot hitting him in the small of the back.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX; Wed., 12 July 1899]

Shot by Insane Man
Cooper, Tex., July 14--Alfred Rentfro is a young man with a wife and several children, living on Craig Prairie in the eastern portion of this county. While on his way home from church he was overtaken by Alonzo Lamb, a young man of the neighborhood, and shot in the back. Renfro with but slight hopes of recovery. Lamb is demented and has been in the asylum. He is in jail but is generally excused on the ground of insanity.
[Source: Fort Worth Morning Register; Fort Worth, TX; Sun., 16 July 1899]

Alfred Rentfro, shot by the demented young man Lamb, a full account of which was at the time published in the Register, is still in a critical condition. The X-rays will be brought to bear on the concealed bullet.
[Source: Fort Worth Register; Fort Worth, TX; Tues., 15 Aug 1899]

Wound Caused Death
Cooper, Tex., Nov. 17--Alf Renfro, who was shot in the back while going from church at Craig Prairie last July died last night.

The bullet lodged near the spine and was located and extracted about a month after the shooting and Renfro was able to walk about some little, but the effects of the shot finally caused his death.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX; Sat. 8 Nov 1899]

Died of An Old Wound
Result of Shooting in Delta County Last Summer
Cooper, Tex., Nov. 16--Some four months ago at a country church in the eastern part of the county Alfred Renfro, a young farmer, was shot by a young man named Alonzo Lamb. The wound at the time was thought to be fatal, but Renfro was conveyed to his home, proper surgical aid was summoned, the ball by use of the X-rays was located and extracted, and for some time thereafter the wounded man was believed to be on the road to recovery., though still confined to is home and bed. A few days ago, contrary to expectation, Renfro took a turn of the worse, and last night he died. Lamb was at the time arrested and lodged in jail, where ever since he has been. It developed that Lamb had been in the asylum and was discharged as cured. It is stated that there had been no trouble between the young men and the grievance of Lamb was purely imaginary, and at the time of the unfortunate occurrence he was again laboring under mental aberration.
[Source: Fort Worth Morning Register; Fort Worth, TX; Sat., 18 Nov 1899]

Given Life Sentence
Cooper, Tex., Jan. 19--The case of Alonzo Lamb, charged with the murder of Alf Renfro last July, was taken up on Monday morning of this week, and lasted till near the adjournment of the court yesterday evening, consuming three days, and this morning the jury brought in a verdict for a life sentence.
[Source: Dallas Morning News; Dallas, TX; Sat. 20 Jan 1900]

Given a Life Term
Greenville, Texas, January 19--Alonzo Lamb, who killed Alf Renfro in Delta County last July, was tried in the district court at Cooper this week and given a life sentence. He had been in the insane asylum and pleaded insanity, but the jury decided otherwise.
[Source: Houston Post; Houston, TX; Sat. 20 Jan. 1900]

28 June 1900; Prct #1, Delta Co., TX:

556-576
Renfro, Jas Head W M b. Feb 1842 58 M 35 b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
-----Julia A Wife W F b. Jan 1848 52 M 35 5-2 b. AL fb. AL mb. AL
-----Will A son W M b. 1868 32 b. TN fb. TN mb. AL
-----Rufan grandson W M b. Sep 1892 7 S b. TX fb. TN mb. un
-----Monora grandd W F b. 1895 4 S b. TX fb. TN mb. un
-----Ethial grandd W F b. Sep 1889 11 S b. TX fb. un mb. un

J. W. Renfro began appearing on the Cottle County, Texas tax rolls in 1902.

27 April 1910; Prect. 2, Cottle County Texas:

108-108
Renfro, James W Head M W 68 M-1 44 b. TN fb. TN mb. TN farmer
----- Julia A Wife F W 61 M-1 44 5-3 b. Al fb. AL mb. AL
Stone, Shelby  M W 24 M-1 8/12 b. TN fb. TN mb. TN
----- Nana A Granddaughter F W 14 M-1 8/12 b. TX fb. TN mb. TX
109-109
Renfro, Richard B Head M W 36 M-1 16 b. TX fb. TN mb. AL
-----Lucy L. Wife F  33 M-1 16 b. MS fb. MS mb. MS
-----Lulie L. ? M W 14 S b. TX fb. TX mb. MS
-----Carnie C son M  9 S b. TX fb. TX mb. MS
-----William C son M W 5 S b. TX fb. TX mb. MS

Death Certificate of James W. Renfro:

James William Renfro b. 15 Feb 1841, Trenton, Tenn.; d. 25 Oct 1918 near Paducah, Cottle Co., Texas. Widowed. Occupation: Farmer. Father: Joe D. Renfro. b. NC. Mother: Mary Alexander b. Scotland. Informant: E.A. Renfro. Burial: Paducah, Cottle Co., Texas.
[death certificate]

Note that the mother for James W. Renfro is Mary Alexander not Sarah Dial. Given that James was born in 1841, between the marriage of Sarah Dial in 1835 and the birth of younger brother John M. Renfro, whose birth certificate lists Sarah Dial as his mother, in 1850, it seems doubtful that James' mother was any one other than Sarah Dial. However, Mary Alexander must be a name that E.A. Renfro knew in connection with his family history, so it is worth noting her name. E.A. Renfro also made several errors in his recounting of the Renfro migration to Texas, indicating that he was listening to family stories, but not paying attention to details like dates.

Renfro burials in Garden of Memories Cem., Paducah, Cottle Co., TX:

J.W. Renfro b. 15 Feb 1841, d. 25 Oct 1918, bur. Garden of Memories Cem., Paducah, Cottle Co., TX

Julia A. Renfro b. 7 Jun 1850, d. 28 Sept 1919, bur Garden of Memories Cem., Paducah, Cottle Co., TX

William James Renfro b. 24 Feb 1868, d. 8 Mar 1917, bur Garden of Memories Cem., Paducah. Married to Emma Elizabeth Renfro.

Known children of James W. and Julia Renfro:

1. William J. Renfro
2. Martha L. Renfro
3. Albert Renfro
4. Alfred Renfro
5. Richard B. Renfro

Last updated August 3, 2015