Death of Mr. R. J. Smith.

Passes Away at Hall’s Station at 81 Years of Age.

Mr. R. J. Smith died at the home of his son, Mr. A. L. Smith, at Hall’s Station, on Tuesday night, of general debility and old age, being in his 82d year.

Mr. Smith lived for many years in Cobb county, but for the last ten years has made his home with his sons in this county. His children living are R. W. Smith, of this city, A. L. Smith, of Halls, a son in Texas and Mrs. McElreath, and Mrs. Lockridge, of this county.

He was long a member of the Methodist church and was a man of pious actions.

His remains will be interred today at Oak Hill cemetery, Rev. B. P. Allen officiating at his funeral.

February 17, 1898

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Death of Mr. R. J. Smith.

Was born in Rockingham county, N. C., in 1816. He died in Bartow county, Georgia, February 8th, 1898. Four score and two years he tabernacled in the flesh. A long while to live. “Because he hath set his heart upon me, with long life will I satisfy him, and show him my salvation.” This promise was verified by brother Smith.

In 1840 he married Miss Cornelia Williamson, of Caswell county, N. C. To them were born eight children, six of whom and the aged wife are alive to mourn him dead.

In 1838 he was “born of the spirit,” joined the Methodist church and consecrated his life to the service of God. For nearly sixty years he maintained his integrity. In all the trials, disappointments and failures of life he had an unfailing faith in God and delighted in communion with Him. In all of his sickness he was patient, and, tho’ a constant sufferer, he would shout the praise of Him whose grace made it possible to bear the pain uncomplainingly. In this faith and by this grace he was victorious in the hour of death, and felt no fear as he walked through the valley of the shadow.

He did not make a fortune, (treasures upon earth) but he did better; he made a character that will live in righteousness.

“When the stars are old

And the sun grows cold,

And the leaves of the judgment book unfold.”

His children will never have to apologize for his manner of life or blush at the mention of his name. He has left them a legacy more precious than gold and the priceless heritage of a faithful life and a triumphant death. Conscious until the last moment he spoke confidently of the heavenly home to which he had been journeying for three score years and exhorted all to meet him there. The kind, gentle and trustful spirit went away to glory and to God.

May the God of all grace comfort the aged wife and sorrowing children and bring them all to meet where God shall wipe all tears away.

--A.

[Another brief mention of the death of R. J. Smith can be found on page 8 of this issue in the “Doings in Bartow—Linwood” section.]