Obituary of Nannie F. Hurst, Randolph, Alabama http://files.usgwarchives.net/al/randolph/obits/nfhurst.txt ----------------------------------------------------------------------- USGENWEB PROJECT NOTICE: In keeping with the USGenWeb Project policy of providing free information on the Internet, this data may be used by non-commercial entities, as long as this message remains on all copied material These electronic pages cannot be reproduced in any format for profit or other gain. Copying of the files within by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material for purposes other than stated above must obtain the written consent of the file contributor. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. ALGenWeb Archives File Manager Carolyn Golowka, -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Submitted by William Fischer, Jr., February 2001 MRS. N. F. HURST IS LAID TO REST -------------------- At three o’clock last Sunday [16 Feb 1919] morning the spirit of Mrs. Nannie F. HURST slipped away from its fragile tenement of clay, at the home of her son, Mr. P. [Peter] A. HURST, in this city [Roanoke], and entered into the rest that remaineth for the people of God. While the burden of years pressed her down, her spirit continued to the last bright, brave and beautiful. Though darkness shut her in from the outside world, yet her very presence radiated light. Her love was luminous; her faith unclouded. Thus coming down to the shore of time, she was ready for the voyage to the farther side, to meet her pilot face to face, whom she had trusted long. On her part there was no “moaning at the bar when she put out to sea.” Almost to the last she retained consciousness, and true to her life-long unselfishness, she thought and enquired of others. When asked if she wanted water shortly before she sank into the last sleep she replied, “Yes,” and added, “I am going to a fountain,” perhaps recalling the words of the Psalmist: “For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.” With broken breath at another time she quoted: “Jesus can make the dying bed As soft as downy pillows are, And leaning on His gentle breast I breath my life out sweetly there.” Monday [17 Feb 1919] at eleven o’clock a company of friends and neighbors escorted the remains to Five Points [Chambers co., AL], where the funeral services were held in the Methodist church, conducted by Revs. I. F. HAWKINS and M. R. SMITH, in the presence of many relatives and friends. The remains were placed beside those of her husband, the late Mr. M. B. HURST, who died some ten years ago. A pathetic feature of the occasion was the fact that the son with whom she made her home and his wife, were prevented by illness from being present. The deceased was born in Patrick county, Virginia, 83 years ago last October [1835], but came to Georgia in her infancy. The greater portion of her life was spent in Troup county, Georgia, and Chambers county, Alabama. She joined the church at eleven years of age. She was totally blind the last sixteen years of her life. Most of her widowhood was spent with Mr. and Mrs. P. A. HURST, where she was tenderly cared for, and where her ministry of patient waiting, of undimmed devotion and of unselfish service rests as an abiding benediction on the home. As one said who waited on her during her closing hours, “It was a blessing but to be in her presence.” Having tarried long in the shadows, how blessed now the light! Though rough the road and the burden heavy, what matters it when the journey’s ended, and the weary traveler is at home! CARD OF THANKS -------------------------- To the many friends and the kind physician who ministered so beautifully and graciously through the sorrow in the sickness and passing away of our dear mother, we extend sincerest thanks, with gratefulness beyond expression. May the hand of the Good Father lead each of you continually. P. A. HURST [4 Sep 1875--25 Apr 1944, interred Cedarwood cem, Roanoke] Henry M. HURST Mrs. A. J. PENN [Both from The Roanoke Leader (Randolph County, Alabama), 19 Feb 1919,p.1] [Mrs. P. A. HURST is probably Mary Ellen HURST, 9 Jan 1876--9 Sep 1954, interred Cedarwood cem, Roanoke]