DEATH OF LITTLE VIRGINIA MARTIN

 

After a two weeks' illness occurred the death of little Virginia Louise Martin, on Wednesday evening, September 24, at the home of her parents on Few’s avenue.  She was the eldest child of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Martin, and was born July 18, 1913, therefore, just six years and two months' old.

 

A sweet funeral service was held at the grave Thursday afternoon, and all hearts were touched as they looked on the dainty form as she lay in the little white casket, surrounded by beautiful flowers which she loved so well.  The services were conducted by Rev. J. W. Stephens.

    

Mrs. Jeff Penick, Mrs. Everett Atkinson and Mr. W. C. Hemperley sang that sweet old hymn, “Jesus Lover of My Soul.” Interment was in Fairview cemetery.  The pall bearers were Messers. Harris Shouse, Edgar Fears, J. F. Stovall, and J. F. Turnell.

    

She leaves a father, mother, little sister and baby brother, and a number of other relatives to mourn her loss.  Virginia was an affectionate, lively and intelligent child, ever displaying a thoughtfulness beyond her years, and holding forth hopes of happiness in after-times which will scarcely bear reflections.

    

She possessed a remarkable desire for knowledge.  All the summer she had counted the weeks and days until she could start to school, but had only gone one week, when she was taken seriously ill, and in spite of the brave fight that she made and all that anxious loved ones and the gentle and faithful physician could do, the hand of death could not be stayed

     

It has indeed been a sad blow for the fond parents and we scarcely know how to talk of consolation under so bitter an affliction.  We only say to them, think of the One who “careth for all, who loved little children beyond others.”

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“She, like a budding lilly, forbidden to grow,

Even in death most beautiful – and as pure as snow.

And though within her little grave

We lay her down to rest –

We know that she will blossom on

The Savior's loving breast.

 

“And one day we’ll greet you darling,

In your blessed mansion new.

For though you cannot come to us

Still we may go to you”.