Frances Fortson

The following obituary appeared in the 20 Jun 1901 edition of the Elberton Star newspaper:

'DEATH OF AN OLD LADY - Aunt Fannie Fortson, an Aged Lady of Webbsboro, Passes Away.

"Aunt Fannie Fortson, and aged and noble lady, departed this life at the home of her son, Mr. J. M. Fortson, of Webbsboro district, Thursday, June 13th, 1901, after a lingering illness. Aunt Fannie was born August 2nd, 1817 and was married to Mr. Jesse M. Fortson December 27th, 1831. Nine children came to bless their lives - eight sons and one daughter. All lived to be grown. Five sons survive her - Rev. John H. Fortson, Professor Oscar Fortson of Wilkes, Edward, Asa C. and J. M. Fortson of this county. She has sixty-three grand children, fifty-nine great grand children and two great, great grand children. She was a consistent member of Falling Creek Baptist Church, having united with that church many years prior to the war.

"Hers was a beautiful life. She was a noble Christian, and her life's work and influence was for the advancement of humanity to the cause of Christ. She was beloved by all who knew her; a true friend and neighbor; ever ready to help whomsoever she could. She suffered much pain, and bore it all with Christian fortitude and resigned herself to the blessed Master whom she loved so well and served so faithfully. She has gone to her reward. Her soul winged its flight beyond the stars, to be with God forever and to sing with the angels around the throne. She has a host of relatives and friends to mourn her loss, but, dear friends, weep not as those without faith, for your loved one is at rest.

"Her remains were interred at the family burying ground, in the presence of a large crowd of people. Rev. H. W. Williams performed the funeral services in a most beautiful manner. Her grave was covered with beautiful flowers.

" There is no death, the stars go down To shine upon some fairer shore, And safe in heaven's jeweled crown, They shine forevermore. W.H.KERLEN"'

[Submitter's notes: Frances "Fannie" Mills, daughter of William Mills (1788-1860) and Nancy Brown (1799-1864), married Jesse Marion Fortson (1812-1864), son of Jesse Fortson (son of Rev. Sol. Lt. Thomas Fortson, Jr. and Rachel Winn) and wife Mary B. White, daughter of Daniel White and Mary Ballinger.]