McNairy County, Tennessee
Biographies

ABERNATHY, M.R.
Prof. M.R. Abernathy, principal of the Purdy Male and Female Institute, and superintendent of public instruction of McNairy County, Tenn., was born in Alabama in 1846, and was one of a family of eight children born to Dr. Smith and Elizabeth Abernathy, both natives of North Carolina. The father was born in Franklin County in 1802, was a physician and followed that profession many years. He was a Whig in politics and also a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He died in 1876. The mother was born in Chatham County in 1810 and died in 1867. Her maiden name was Ramsey. Our subject received his education almost entirely through his own efforts. He came to McNairy County in 1866 and soon afterward began teaching, which occupation he has filled the principal part of the time since. In 1869 he married Miss Rachel M. Cox, a native of McNairy County, born in 1848, and the daughter of Anderson and Rebecca Cox. The result of this marriage was the birth of nine children: William K., Terry W., Florence W., Bessie L., Mary, Pearl, George M. (deceased), Orpheus and an infant. In 1868 Prof. Abernathy was electy county superintendent of public iinstruction and occupied this position until 1871. In 1885 he came to Purdy to take charge of the Male and Female Institute at that place. Previous to this he had taught a few years at Adamsville. January, 1885, he was chosen to his present office of county superintendent, and has filled that office to the general satisfaction fo the people up to the present. In 1886 he assumed control of the McNairy Independent which under his able management will undoubtedly become one of the leading newspapers of West Tennessee. Prof. Abernathy is an independent Republican in politics, and he and his wife are members of the Christian Church.
Source: Tennessee History & Biographies McNairy County, Goodspeed Publishing Co. 1887, Reprinted by Mountain Press, 1990; transcribed by Pat Lancaster.

ADAMS, James Louis
Banker; born Purdy, Tenn., Feb. 1, 1878; Scotch-Irish descent; son of John Robert and Mary (Dillahunty) Adams; father’s occupation cashier of McNairy Co. Bank, Selmer, Tenn.; paternal grandparents J.R. and Sarah (Young) Adams; maternal grandfather Louis Marks Dillahunty; educated at Purdy and Selmer, Tenn., graduated at latter with A.B. degree May 13, 1907; entered his present business as bookkeeper of McNairy Co. Bank, Selmer, Tenn., in early life, also served as teller of said bank; married Rachel White April 28, 1903; member of Royal Arch Masons and Knights of Pythias (Master of Exchequer); Democrat; member of Presbyterian church, U.S.A.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

ADAMS, John Robert
Banker; born Purdy, Tenn., Jan. 4, 1842; son of John Robert and Sarah (Young) Adams; father’s occupation Co. Court Clerk of McNairy Co., Tenn. and merchant; paternal grandparents Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Gregg) Adams; maternal grandfather Col. Richard Adams, Jr.; received his education at Purdy, Tenn.; was raised by widowed mother and made his way when about 20 years old through the Union army lines to join Gen. N.B. Forrest’s regiment, enlisted as private, but was promoted to rank of Captain of Cavalry Co. under Gen. N.B. Forrest, from 1862 until close of war; began his career as clerk in store, later entered the mercantile business for himself; served as Co. Court Clerk of McNairy Co., Tenn. about 25 years; at present he is in the banking business as cashier of McNairy Co. Bank, Selmer, Tenn.; married Mary Dillahunty April 28, 1873; member Masons; Presbyterian church, U.S.A.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

ANDERSON, Hugh Crump
Banker; born McNairy Co., Tenn., Feb. 2, 1851; Scotch-Irish descent; son of William Taylor and Mahala (Wisdom) Anderson; father’s occupation farmer, merchant; paternal grandparents Thomas and Mary (Davis) Anderson; maternal grandparents James and Susan (Seargent) Wisdom; educated at West Tennessee College, Jackson, Tenn., and Cumberland University, Lebanon, graduated from latter Law department with B.L. degree in 1873; entered the practice of law in early life at Jackson, Tenn.; married three times, first, Helen Bond, Nov. 1876, second, Emma Burdette, May 1889, third Lena Myers, Sept., 1895; member Elks, Masons and K.P.; Democrat; served two years as City Attorney of Jackson, Tenn., 1874-1875; Mayor 1884; later fifteen years as Mayor of Jackson, 1893-1908; member of Legislature of Tenn., 1879, also 1881; Tenn. Com. to Louisiana Purchase Exposition 1904; Election Commissioner of Madison Co., Director of Tenn. Centennial, 1896; served as Asst. U.S. Attorney under Cleveland’s first administration, for Western District of Tenn.; at present he is Trustee of University of Tenn.; has been member of the Board of Education in Jackson, Tenn. for 18 years; and for twenty-two years President of Peoples’ Savings Bank, Jackson, Tenn.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

ANDERSON, Hon. R.D.
Hon. R.D. Anderson, one of the leading farmers and prominent citizens of the Sixth district, is one of six children born to the union of Thomas and Jane (Gates) Anderson. Two of the sons and two daughters are now living. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent, born in Logan County, Ky., in 1805. After having lived in Middle Tennessee and Alabama, went to Hardeman County, Tenn., where he married in 1834; shortly afterward, moving to Tippah County, Miss., he remained there until 1844; when he came to McNairy County, engaging in farming until his death in 1883. By close study he obained considerable practical knowledge, and held the office of magistrate for a number of years. The mother was born in Bedford County, Tenn., about 1812, is still living in the Sixth district, is an earnest and esteemed member of the church. Our subject was born in Tippah County, Miss., in 1840, was reared under the paternal roof, and educated in the common schools. He enlisted in the Confederate service in 1861, being of those eager and anxious to don the gray for his country, was in a company of heavy artillery under command of Capt. J.C.B. Jones of Memphis, served in different artilleries in the Army of Tennessee, until the close of hostilities, taking active part in all engagements in which his company participated. After nearly four years of gallantry for his country, he regurned home after the surrender and resumed farming. In December, 1865, he married Miss Eliza A., daughter of Thomas and Mary Kerr, who was born in Maury County, Tenn, in 1841, and came to McNairy County when a child. To Mr. and Mrs. Anderson two children have been born: Wm. R. and Mary Jane. Mr. A. has lived at his present home since 1870, owns 180 acres of the most productive and valuable land in the section; it is under a high state of cultivation, well improved; upon it stands a fine commodious dwelling, four miles east of Falcon. Mr. Anderson is a man of business capacity and ability, in his early life spent years in giving instruction in penmanship, being quite proficient in that art. In 1882 was brought forth as the choice of the people to represent the county in the Legislature; he was elected by a large majority; he served the term with satisfaction to the people and credit to himself. He is a Democrat; his first presidential vote was for Horace Greeley. He is a warm advocate and supporter for any and all enterprises which may be beneficial to his country. He and his wife are active and steemed members of the Christian Church.
Source: Tennessee History & Biographies McNairy County, Goodspeed Publishing Co. 1887, Reprinted by Mountain Press, 1990; transcribed by Pat Lancaster.

ATKINS, Peyton
Peyton Atkins, a well known farmer and early settler of McNairy County, and resident of the Ninth District, a son of George and Martha (Martin) Atkins, was born in North Carolina in 1814. His grandfather, Joseph Atkins, was a native of North Carolina and a soldier in the Revolutionary war. The father, George, was of Irish ancestry, born in North Carolina in 1785, and while a resident of his native State, married a lady who was born there in 1790. In 1832 they came to McNairy County, where Mr. Atkins engaged in farming until his death in 1849. Mrs. Atkins' death occurred in 1874; she was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. The subject of this sketch was raised under his father's roof and received a fair education at the common schools. January, 1811, he married Nancy, daughter of William and Martha Donnell. She was born in North Carolina in 1817, and became the mother of nine children - six sons and three daughters: Artimesia, wife of V.A. Sanders of Corinth, Miss.; George, of Hardin County; Martha, wife of D.W. Babb, of Mississippi; Pinckney C., of Arkansas; James E., of Hardin County; Adolpheus S., of Arkansas; John Peyton, of Hardin County; Nancy, wife of Samuel Chambers, and Robert Tolbert. Mr. Atkins has always led an active and industrious life, and by his own efforts has accumulated considerable valuable property, owning the place upon which he resides, a farm of about 400 acres, well improved.
Source: Tennessee History & Biographies McNairy County, Goodspeed Publishing Co. 1887, Reprinted by Mountain Press, 1990; transcribed by Pat Lancaster.

AVERY, Willie D.
An Unforgettable Man
My uncle, Willie D Avery was a man I can never forget. He was the son of William Avery Jr. and Georgia Neely Avery. The grandson of William Avery Sr. and Ann McGee Avery. He was born on August 6, 1903 and died on June 30, 1976.
Will, as he was called grew up on the Avery farm with one sister, Susie, and two brothers, Edgar and Jeff (my father).
Uncle is a person I can never forget, because I started living with him and his wife, Druline at an early age, along with my four sisters and one brother. There was a great responsibility trying to raise six children as his own. He was a very religious person and prayed daily for guidance in trying to direct us in the right way. I realized now that sometimes uncle did not understand us, but in his way he had our welfare at heart, and did not want us to do anything that would endanger our lives.
To recount his acts of kindness and generosity, would require hours but I do know that what he did for me has not been in vain.
My sisters, brother, and I owe great gratitude to Uncle will and his wife. The service they rendered was out of love for his brother's family. May the memories of my uncle linger in my heart forever.
Source: "Reflections A history of McNairy County, Tennessee 1823-1996" Submitted by: Mildred Avery Waterman, transcribed by Pat Lancaster.

BARRY, William Valentine
Editor and publisher; born Purdy, McNairy Co., Tenn., March 27, 1858; Irish descent; son of Daniel and Eliza J. (Moore) Barry; father’s occupation physician; educated at Memphis and Purdy, Tenn.; in early life taught school, and salesman for retail store; married Mary A. Dennisom Jan. 12, 1883; member Knights of Pythias; Democrat; election Commissioner 14 years, Coal Oil Inspector under Governors McMillin, Frazier and Cox; published 1881-1884 paper in Decatur Co., Tenn., was for 27 years editor and publisher of Lexington (Tenn.) Progress; now in the paper business with three sons; Catholic.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

DARNALL, James F.
Physician; born Stantonville, (McNairy Co) Tenn., Sept., 1866; son of Thomas M. and Eliza Darnall; Scotch-Irish descent; educated in the public schools of McNairy Co., Tenn.; won scholarship to the University of Tenn. and voluntarily relinquished it; graduated Ohio Normal University, Ada, O., B.S. degree 1890; received degree M.D. from medical department Vanderbilt University 1895, and won distinction of “Roll of Honor,” Vanderbilt; post-graduate at New York Polyclinic 1903; taught public schools and county high schools in early life; entered the practice of medicine at Adamsville, Tenn. and in July, 1895 located at Obion, where he has since continued in practice; Democrat; former chairman of Obion School Board and former secretary of McNairy and Obion Counties Medical Societies; president Obion Co. Medical Society and Sec. Obion Board of Health; married Mrs. Ora (Cunningham) Waters July, 1903; member K. of P., I.O.O.F., Obion Co., Tenn.; State Medical and Tri-State Medical Associations; member of Christian church and superintendent of Sunday school of same.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

DICKEY, Isaac T.
Farmer; born at Finger, (McNairy Co) Tenn., Nov. 6, 1869; Scotch-Irish descent; son of George W. and Amanda (McIntyre) Dickey; educated at West Tenn. Christian College; reared on a farm near Finger, Tenn. and paid for his own education; entered the grocery business at Abbott, Tex., in 1894; then moved to Selmer, Tenn., and entered the general merchandise business; moved to Jackson, Tenn., in 1903, to his farm near Henderson, Tenn., in 1907, and now owns a large plantation, and is engaged in farming near Henderson, Tenn.; married Mary Magdaline Starks Sept. 12, 1889; member Masons, Royal Arch, Eagles and K. of P.; Republican; Postmaster at Selmer, Tenn. Oct. 1, 1901 to June 1, 1903; member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

DODDS, Benjamin Claud
Physician; born Mefflin, (??) Tenn., Sept. 14, 1881; Scotch-Irish descent; son of Thomas Mitchell and Martha Elizabeth (Massengil) Dodds; paternal grandparents Tom and Polly (Barham) Dodds; maternal grandparents Samuel D. and Mary (Hendrix) Massengil; graduated Robinson College, Henderson, Tenn., June, 1903 degree of B.S.; graduated at College of Physicians and Surgeons, Memphis, Tenn., M.D., May 1, 1908; in early life engaged in teaching school; married Carrie E. Minor Feb. 3, 1909; member Mystic Circle, W.O.W.; Camp Physician of W.O.W.; practices medicine at Gravelhill, Tenn., and is also interested in orange growing in Florida; member Christian Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

ERWIN, Nicholas DeCalvus
Farmer; born McNairy Co., Tenn., March 17, 1857; Scotch-Irish descent; son of Nathaniel A. and Mary E. (McKenzie) Erwin; father’s occupation farmer; educated in country schools; engaged in mercantile business at Falcon, Tenn. seven years in early life, he is now engaged in farming; married Zilpah E. Meeks Sept. 13, 1881; Democrat; member of Christian church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

ETHERIDGE, Dixon
A well known farmer of the Seventeenth district, is a son of Kindred and Serena Massingale Etheridge, born in Dixon County, Tenn., about 1838. The father was a native of Edgecombe County, N.C.; immigrated to Dixon County, Tenn., when but was a boy, with his father, Willoughby Etheridge; the was raised and married in that section. He moved to McNairy County in 1848. He was an active and industrious man, engaged in farming until time of his death about 1868. Our subject was reared under the paternal roof, his educational advantages were limited. At the age of twenty-five he married Miss Mary Jane, daughter of James and Katie Patterson. To their union eight childrren wire born, seven of whom are living: Nathan Clark, Jackson, Robert D., Mary E., John H., Julia Ann and Winnie. In 1875 Mr. Etheridge settled on Sweet Lips, and moved to where he now resides, two miles south of McNairy, whih by his industry, frugality and good management he owns; it consists of about 873 acres. Mr. Etheridge has always been a hardworking, energetic man, is a most worthy citizen and kind nieghbor. He is an ardent Democrat, having cast his first presidential vote for John C. Breckinridge. He has been for several years a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity. He and his wife are consistent and faithful members of the Christian Churh, and held in respect by all.
Source: Tennessee History & Biographies McNairy County, Goodspeed Publishing Co. 1887, Reprinted by Mountain Press, 1990; transcribed by Pat Lancaster.

GOOCH, John Robert
Merchant; born Gravel Hill, Tenn., Dec. 14, 1870; son of William Andrew and Nancy (Murphy) Gooch; in early life was a farmer boy; later clerked in store; received common school education; began business for himself March 2, 1896 with less than $400.00 capital in a small box Tenn.; is also Postmaster of Gravelhill house and now owns and operates a large mercantile establishment at Gravelhill, and has held that office since 1903; married Julia A. Springer Nov. 28, 1894; member of Masons and Woodmen of the World; is Consul Commander of Gravelhill, Tenn., Camp, W.O.W.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

HALL, R.M.
Lawyer, banker, railroad builder; born Purdy, Tenn., Jan. 9, 1858; son of A.R. and Louise P. (Helm) Hall; Scotch-Irish; graduated Cumberland University, literature, 1874; law 1876; married Kate Sampson, Sept. 7, 1887; Chairman County Democrat Executive Committee (four years); delegate to National Democratic Convention Chicago, 1896; founded First National Bank, Dyersburg, Tenn., ’89; President of same to 1908; built D.N., now C.M. & G., R.R., sold same 1909; member Presbyterian Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

HAMM, J.M. Jr.
J.M. Hamm, Jr., a well known farmer and saddler of the Fifth District, is a native of McNairy County; was born in August, 1848. His parents were Calvin and Emily Ann (Springer) Hamm. The father was born in Lauderdale County, Ala., in 1822, and came to this county with his parents when about eight years of age, making him one of the olsettlers. He is a respected farmer of the Fifth District. The mother was born in Giles County, Tenn., in 1826. Of a family of eight children born to her, five are still living. Our subject was raised at home and received the educational advantages of the district schools. In 1867 he married Miss Laura J. Robertson, who was born in McNairy County in 1847, a daughter of Pleas. and Margaret Robertson, who came to the county at an an early day. By their union they have three children living: Minnie, Myrtle, and John Calvin. After his marriage Mr. Hamm began farming, which occupation he carried on for some time, when he learned the saddler's trade, in which business he has been engaged since 1873, and has found it very profitable, for by his energy, attention to business and courtesy to patrons, he has succeded in building up an extensive trade. His work is in great demand. In March, 1886, he was elected magistrate of the district. He is a staunch Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Hamm are both members of the Primitive Baptist Church, and esteemed by the community in which they live.
Source: Tennessee History & Biographies McNairy County, Goodspeed Publishing Co. 1887, Reprinted by Mountain Press, 1990; transcribed by Pat Lancaster.

HARDEMAN, Nicholas Brodie
Educator and minister of the gospel; born in McNairy Co., Tenn., May 18, 1874; Anglo-Saxon descent; son of J.B. and Nannie (Smith) Hardeman; father’s occupation physician; graduated at Henderson, Tenn. with degree of M.A. June, 1897; in early life was a farmer boy and later taught school; moved to Henderson, Tenn. in 1893; with A.G. Freed was founder of N.T. & B. College, Henderson, Tenn. in 1907 and is at present vice-president of the same college; spent twelve years preaching in Tenn. and Ky.; has been Superintendent of Education for Chester Co., Tenn. for six years and is the present incumbent; recently elected for two more years; married Joe K. Tabler April 21, 1901; Democrat; member of the Church of Christ.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

HOUSTON, James Cleveland
Lawyer; born McNairy Co., Tenn., Aug. 18, 1867; Scotch-Irish descent; son of Robert S. and Irene (Michie) Houston; father farmer; paternal grandparents Robert C. and Rebecca (Chambers) Houston; maternal grandparents George C. and Zilpha (Atkins) Michie; educated at Henderson and Lebanon, Tenn.; in early life was a farmer and manager of a small mercantile business; at present he is engaged in the practice of law, and has small banking interests and owns some real estate; Democrat; State Senator of Tenn. 1901-1902; appointed to fill unexpired term in office of Co. Judge 1908; former Mayor of Selmer, Tenn.; at present he is a member of the State Democratic Executive Committee; married Stella Harris Dec. 12, 1900; member Knights of Pythias and Christian Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

HURST, Elijah S.
Practical surveyor; born in McNairy Co., Tenn., Dec. 13, 1855; Irish descent; son of David and Elizabeth (Carpenter) Hurst; father’s occupation farmer; received common school education; taught school in Chester and McNairy Cos. from 1874 to 1888; married Mary E. Muse Dec. 14, 1876; Democrat; three times elected justice of the peace in Twelfth District; appointed census enumerator 100-1910; has served as deputy sheriff, county surveyor and deputy trustee for a number of years, and practiced law in J.P. courts fifteen years; interested in farming, etc.; lay-member of Primitive Baptist Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

INMAN, Thomas Redis
Farmer; born McNairy Co., Tenn., July 22, 1839; Irish descent; son of Abraham and Melissa (Branch) Inman; father’s occupation farmer and blacksmith; educated in the local schools of Obion Co., Tenn.; enlisted in Co. “B” 27th Tenn. Infantry, C.S.A., 1861 and served as Second Lieut. of said company from Jan., 1862 to close of war; wounded three times in battles of Murfreesboro, Tenn., New Hope Church, Ga. and Atlanta, Ga.; he also fought in battles of Shiloh, Tenn., Chickamauga, Tenn. and Perryville, Ky., and in one hundred days’ campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta, and fought the entire way except loss by wounds; married twice, first, Amanda Boone Aug., 1865, second, Eliza Hoover March 14, 1877; Democrat; member M.E. Church, South.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

JUSTICE, Alexander
Alexander Justice was in McNairy County, TN by 1840. (Surname also spelled Jestes and Justus). Born in ca. 1815/1816 in North Carolina; died 26 Dec 1893 in Clark Co., Arkansas; married Caroline B. ___ in ca. 1839/40. Known children of prime ancestor, all born in McNairy Co., TN. (not documented): Rachel Justice born in 1840 (married Thomas Clayton); Nancy Catherine Justice born in 1841 (married Isaac Watt Curry); Rebecca Ann Justice born in 1841; Aaron Hardage Justice born in 1844; Virginia Justice born in 1845 (married John McAnally); Lucinda Justice born in 1846; William Clark Justice born in 1850; Amanda E. Justice born in 1851; John Justice born in 1852; Charles W. Justice; and Frank Justice born in 1856.
Gen. 2. William Clark Justice: Born in Nov 1850 in McNairy Co., TN; died ca. 1897 in Ellis Co. Texas, married Sarah Caroline Rogers on 8 Oct 1873 in Clark Co., AR.
Gen. 3. Mattie (Martha) Naomi Justice: Born 30 Sep 1874 in Hollywood, Clark Co., AR; died 10 June 1955 in Wheeler Co., TX; married Edmond Lee Sisk on 27 Nov 1900 in Ellis Co., TX.
Gen. 4. Edith Trezevanta Sisk: Born 26 Feb 1904 in Buffalo Gap, Taylor Co, TX; died 16 Dec 1990 in Carlsbad, Eddy Co., New Mexico; married Owen Donald Stover on 12 Jul 1925 in Wellington, Collingsworth Co., TX.
Gen. 5. Batty Joy Stover: Born 27 May 1926 in Mangum, Greer Co., Oklahoma; married John Edward Craig, Jr., on 11 June 1944 in Carsbad, NM.
Applicant: Betty Joy Stover Craig, 291 Church St., Ripley, TN 38063
Source: Tennessee Settlers and Their Decendants, Book 2; Published by Tennessee Genealogical Society, 2002; transcribed by Pat Lancaster

KOFFMAN, J. H.
Farmer; born McNairy Co., Tenn., Aug. 22, 1855; German descent; son of James C. and Abigail Hawkins (Atkins) Koffman; educated at the Central Normal School and I.O.O.F. College of Humboldt, Tenn.; early occupation school teacher in the public schools Gibson Co., Tenn.; later was engaged in newspaper business and about 1882 purchased the West Tennessee Argus of Humboldt, Tenn., of which he was editor; in 1893 he established the Tennessee Populist, he later edited the Gibson Co. Journal, published at Trenton, Tenn.; has been a newspaper writer and contributed to many newspapers and periodicals; was twice candidate for State Senator, but not elected; has been Justice of Peace twenty-four years; is chairman of State Executive Committee of the Farmers’ Educational and Co-operative Union of America and is chairman of State Legislative Committee, etc.; married first Emma B. Phelan in 1885, married second Mattie L. Boyd April 7, 1901; member of the Baptist Cchurch; Democrat; member of Farmers’ Educational and Co-Operative Union of America.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

KOFFMAN, John Nathaniel
Educator, physician, farmer and fruit grower; born in McNairy Co., Tenn., April 5, 1851; German-English and Irish descent; son of James Carol and Abigail Hawkins (Atkins) Koffman; father’s occupation farmer; paternal grandparents Isaiah and Sarah E. (Hill) Koffman; maternal grandparents John and Sarah (Ferrell) Atkins; educated in public schools of Gibson Co., Tenn., and Andrew College, Trenton, Tenn., and Normal School, Humboldt, Tenn., graduating from Jones Commercial College, St. Louis, Mo., April 5, 1873, and from University of Nashville and Vanderbilt University Medical Dept., March, 1881; married 1883; Democrat (Prohibition); director of Citizens’ Bank Humboldt, Tenn.; engaged in farming and shipping fruit and practicing medicine at Humboldt, Tenn.; member of the Baptist Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

PATTERSON, Grover F.
Farmer; born Chester Co., Tenn., Dec. 20, 1886; English descent; son of Mansfield J. and Nancy (Lipscomb) Patterson; father’s occupation farming; paternal grandparents James and Matilda Patterson; maternal grandparents William and Eliza (Tillman) Lipscomb; received common school education; married Mary Belle Sanders Dec. 29, 1907; Democrat; member Christian church; engaged in farming near Finger, Tenn.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

PURVIANCE, James W.
Editor; born Carlinville, Ill., Feb. 25, 1842; French and Scotch descent; son of Robert W. and Morinda M. (Gaskill) Purviance; father farmer; paternal grandparents W.H. and Mary (Siebold) Purviance; maternal grandfather James W. Gaskill; graduated from McKendree College, Lebanon, Ill. B.A. degree June 16, 1864, LL.B. conferred later; in early life practiced law, later retired and became interested in journalism as editor and proprietor of the McNairy Independent for a number of years; he is now engaged in farming and newspaper work; in 1865-1867 he was Prosecuting Attorney for the 12th Judicial Circuit of Tenn. and in 1869 was appointed for the Western District of Tenn.; married Rachel C. Pharr Jan. 8, 1873; member I.O.O.F.; former elder in Cumberland Presbyterian church and since the union of the churches a member of U.S.A. Presbyterian.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

ROLAND, William Thomas
Farmer; born in McNairy Co., Tenn., Nov. 24, 1859; son of Henry and Margaret (Muse) Roland; father’s occupation farmer; received common school education; married Frances A. Maness, of McNairy Co., Feb. 9, 1882; member W.O.W.; Democrat; former Constable 1886-1888, Deputy Sheriff 1889-1891; has been County Surveyor since 1903; engaged in farming and sawmilling near Montezuma, Tenn.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

ROMINE, William Bethel
Editor and publisher; born Stantonville, (McNairy Co) Tenn., Nov. 21, 1861; son of James Alexander and Sarah E. (Fullwood) Romine; paternal grandparents William and Mary (Callahan) Romine; maternal grandparents Samuel Marion and Ann Belle (Howard) Fullwood; educated in the public schools of McNairy Co., Tenn. and afterward attended Peabody College, University of Nashville, graduating with degree L.I. in 1887; began his career as a school teacher, and in 1894 he became the editor and publisher of the “Pulaski Citizen,” which he has since conducted; Democrat; he has served as secretary of the county executive committee; was elected to the legislature of Tenn. 1901 and again in 1903, from district of which Giles County is a part; in session of 1901 he was chairman of the penitentiary committee, and in 1903 of the committee on education; married Lizzie Wilkes, oldest daughter of Judge John S. Wilkes, June 10, 1891; member of Masons, and has served as Worshipful Master of his Masonic Lodge, and High Priest of the Royal Arch Chapter; Chancellor Commander of the Knights of Pythias and trustee of the I.O.O.F. lodge; in 1888 he was for some months connected with the state militia as a member of the Witt Rifles of Columbia; was formerly a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, elder in same, and has served as moderator of Presbytery; represented his Presbytery in the general assembly several times; also represented his church in the general council of the Presbyterian alliance at Washington, D.C. in 1899; on account of division in Cumberland Presbyterian Church growing out of question of union, he joined the Methodist Church in 1909; as early as 1660 his Romine ancestors, originally of England, came to America from Holland and settled at New Amsterdam; at battle of King’s Mountain, in the Revolutionary war, his great-grandfathers, William Fullwood and Benoni Banning fought side by side, Banning being stabbed three times with English bayonets in he famous charge up the North slope of the mountain.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

STOVALL, Ancil W.
Lawyer and poet; born near Selmer, McNairy Co., Tenn., March 3, 1849; son of John M. and Nancy E. (Ferguson) Stovall; English and Dutch descent; educated private schools of McNairy Co.; studied law in law office; married Margaret A. Hendrix Feb. 13, 1871; member Masons, Board of Trustees K. of P.; elected to represent Madison Co. in Tennessee Legislature 1879-80; elected to Tennessee State Senate 1885-86-95-96; member Jackson City Council 1894-95; author “Scraplets,” Book of Poems, and contributor to journals; also author of “Life Lectures and Poetry of E.H. Osborne.”
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

THRASHER, Pugh H.
Farmer; born Florence, Ala., March 12, 1843; son of W.B. Lee and Rachel (Oldhauser) Thrasher; father farmer; received his education in the common schools of Lauderdale Co., Ala.; served as private of 6th Tenn. Cavalry, U.S.A. during civil war; began his career as a lumber contractor, and was formerly interested in the saw mill business and manufacture of all kinds of building material, and general merchandise; at present he is interested in farming; Republican; member of Tenn. Legislature in 1907; married Mary E. Howard March 13, 1866; member I.O.O.F. and G.A.R. Post No. 7, Adamsville, Tenn.; member of Christian Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

WEAVER, L.A.
Merchant; born McNairy Co., Tenn., March 24, 1869; son of R.M. and Mary A. Weaver; began life as a farmer; educated in McNairy Co., Tenn.; has been engaged in general merchandise for several years; married Dovie Kerby Sept. 5, 1897; is president of the Bank of Finger, Finger, Tenn.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler
Cemetery

WHITEHURST, Theodore Benton
Lawyer and public official; born McNairy Co., Tenn., Feb. 28, 1867; English and Irish descent; son of Alfred Franklin and Ann Elizabeth (Nethery) Whitehurst; father school teacher; paternal grandparents Ben and Martha (Wilkerson) Whitehurst; maternal grandparents James and Lucy (Cooper) Nethery; educated in the common and high schools of Wayne and McNairy Cos., Tenn., and under the tutelage of his father; reared principally on a farm in McNairy Co., Tenn., where he remained until 1891, engaged in farming and teaching school, then he went to Pocahontas, Tenn. and became bookkeeper and salesman in a general merchandise store, and read law at nights; in Jan., 1905 he returned to McNairy Co. and devoted time to study of law, in June, 1905, he removed to Selmer, Tenn. and was admitted to the bar, where he has since continued in the practice of law; married Laura Blankenship Nov. 7, 1900; without solicitation in August, 1908, he was elected Judge of the Co. Court of McNairy Co., and re-elected August, 1910, for a full term of eight years; interested in loans and investments, also owns a river bottom farm.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

The WILKES Family
Andrew Jackson Wilkes came to McNairy County after the Civil War. He was born in Chester County, South Carolina, the son of Abner and Martha Wilkes. Abner left his wife and family and went west, eventually settling in Copiah County, Mississippi. Martha Wilkes moved her family to Morgan County, Alabama, where she married Jonathan Medford. By 1860 Andrew J. Wilkes had moved to Itawamba County Miss. where his sister, Nancy Barclay lived. Andrew J. may have also lived in Monroe County, Miss. before finally settling in McNairy County.
The children of Andrew J. and his wife Mary Ann Basham were Elizabeth, Richard, James, William, John, George, Mary, Frances, Nancy, America, Margaret, and Sarah, who married John C. Carroll, the brother of William Carroll.
James Wilkes, son of Andrew J. Wilkes married Rachel Hogan in 1870. They had three children Mary, John Robert, and Maggie Dee. Maggie Dee, my grandmother, was born on December 19, 1877. She never saw her father, James who had died unexpectedly on November 2, 1877. In 1895 Maggie Dee married William Carroll.
It is believed that Andrew J. and Mary Ann Wilkes moved to Hill County, Texas with their daughters, America and her husband, J.C. Younger and Francis and her husband, James Dickey, all formerly from McNairy County.
Source: "Reflections A history of McNairy County, Tennessee 1823-1996". Submitted by: Patricia Replogle, transcribed by Pat Lancaster.

WINNINGHAM, Josiah Seibert Clinton
Merchant; born Adamsville, (McNairy Co) Tenn., Sept. 29, 1849; English, Irish and German descent; son of Green B. and Esperan (Bryan) Winningham; his father was a farmer; educated in Illinois; in early life was a salesman, later taught school and now engaged in the mercantile and real estate and insurance business at Henderson, Tenn.; married Elizabeth Watlington Nov. 24, 1878; member of Knights of Pythias, Chancellor Commander; Democrat; formerly postmaster at Mora, Tenn., four years; member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

WOMBLE, Marcus A.
Farmer; born Chester Co., Tenn., Aug. 11, 1870; son of Joe and Terry A. (Deaton) Womble; educated in local schools of Chester Co., Tenn.; his father died when he was quite young and taking upon himself the task of supporting his father’s family he was prevented from completing his education; married Amanda Archer Dec. 14, 1895; married second, Rebecca Cade Dec. 18, 1910; member of the Christian Church, I.O.O.F.; Justice of the Peace; has been an ardent supporter of public education for many years.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

WOOD, Henry Parker
Lawyer; born Hardin Co., Tenn., Sept. 9, 1859; English descent; son of W.P. and Mary Elizabeth (Seay) Wood; father was a farmer; paternal grandparents John and Mahala (Roberson) Wood; maternal grandparents Louis and Deborah (Parker) Seay; educated at Hardin College, Savannah, Tenn. and Missouri State University, Columbia, Mo., graduated from the latter with L.B. degree March 26, 1885; began his career as a school teacher, and was principal of Hardin College, Savannah, Tenn. two years; Democrat; Mayor of Selmer several times; Judge of the Co. Court of McNairy Co., Tenn. from Jan., 1906 to Jan., 1908, resigned; married De Lola Stephenson Aug. 29, 1885; member of the Christian Church.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

WRIGHT, Marcus Joseph
agent war department for collection of military records; born Purdy, (McNairy Co) Tenn., June 5, 1831; son of Capt. Benjamin and Martha Ann (Hicks) Howell Wright; educated in the common schools and academy at Purdy, Tenn.; studied law and engaged in practice in early life; was a clerk of the common law and chancery court of Memphis, Tenn. 1853-61; assistant purser of the U.S. Navy Yard Memphis 1850-54; entered C.S.A. May, 1861 as lieutenant-colonel of the 154th Senior Tenn. infantry and with four companies of his regiment and a battery of artillery occupied and fortified Randolph, Tipton County; he led his regiment in the battle of Belmont, Nov. 7, 1861; was military governor of Columbus, Ky. Feb.-March, 1862; again led his regiment in the battle of Shiloh April 6-7, 1862, and was assigned to the staff of Gen. B.F. Cheatham in the Kentucky campaign as lieutenant-colonel, June-September, 1862; he was appointed Brigadier-General Dec. 13, 1862 commanding a brigade in the Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge campaigns; he was in charge of the district of Atlanta 1863-4 until its evacuation; he subsequently commanded the districts of Macon, Ga. and North Mississippi and West Tennessee; he was sheriff of Shelby Co., Tenn. 1867-68 and on July, 1878, was appointed agent of the U.S. war department to collect Confederate records which duties occupied him 25 years and resulted in “Official Records of the War of the Rebellion;” he is also author of “Reminiscences of the Early Settlers of McNairy County, Tennessee,” 1882, “Life of Governor Blount,” 1884, “Life of General Winfield Scott in Great Commander Series,” 1894; the latter book was adopted as a text-book for U.S. War college; he is also author of: “Memoirs of Gen. Robert E. Lee with Gen. A.L. Long,” 1896, and co-author of “American Reference Library,” (6 vols.) 1900; he prepared and printed privately sketch of Augustus, Duke of Kent, for which he received the thanks of Queen Victoria, The Prince of Wales, and Princess Louise; he also contributed many biographical sketches of Confederate Army Officers to various reference works; married twice, first, Martha Spencer Elcan of Memphis, second Pauline Womack of Alabama; member S.A.R., Southern Historical Society, Washington Historical Society; Hon. Member of Alabama Historical Society.
Source: Who’s Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; transcribed by Kim Mohler

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