Obituaries: Newton C. Sowers, 1927, Winn Parish, LA. Submitted by Greggory E. Davies, 120 Ted Price Lane, Winnfield, LA 71483 ********************************************** Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ********************************************** From: October 14, 1927 Winnfield News-American Death Claims N. C. Sowers Prominent Citizen of Parish Had Been In Ill Health For Some Time But Death Came Suddenly The sudden passing of Mr. N. C. Sowers Saturday night at 8:15 o'clock was a distinct shock to the entire community. Although Mr. Sowers had been in failing health for some time, his condition was not considered serious until about an hour before his death when he suddenly became much worse, and death came before even all of the members of his immediate family could be notified. Mr. Sowers has been one of the leading business men of this parish for the past fifty years and his death is a severe loss to the parish as a whole. Sunday afternoon the remains were laid to rest in the Winnfield Cemetery in the presence of hosts of friends. Funeral services were held at the Baptist Church, of which he had been one of the most faithful and influential members for many years, by Rev. A. H. Cullen, pastor of the Church, assisted by Rev. P. M. Caraway, pastor of the Methodist Church. The Masonic orcer then took charge of the services which were concluded at the cemetery. The following eulogy, in part, delivered by Rev. Cullen at the funeral expresses so well the sentiments of the many who knew and admired this spendid character: "Today we have lost one of our truest and noblest Christian friends. And we would bring our tokens of love and respect and place them by the silent form of him who was one of the most outstanding citizens of our community. Mr. Newton C. Sowers who fell into sleep upon the bosom of the Christ at 8:15 P. M. Oct. 8th, 1927 at the grand old age of 74 years and 9 months. Mr. Sowers was born in the sister state of Miss., in Lawrence County, Jan. 8th, 1853. In 1858, or when he was just five years of age, his parents brought him to Louisiana to Winn Parish where he has lived nearly all the days of his life. Hehas been a loyal public citizen, and a true pioneer. He was always active in his endeavors at civic improvement, and social uplift in the Parish of his adoption. He held office as Police Juror and School Board member many years. No citizen was more highly esteemed. Truly a pillar in the affairs of this Parish has fallen. His deeds will stand as a monument. And his life as an inspriation to every youth in the community. On Jan. 2nd, 1876 he was united in the bonds of holy matrimony to Miss Anna Newsom. To this happy union eight children were given. He has been a true affectionate husband and a devoted father. God's sunshine and blessings have rested on this happy family, and from it boys and girls have gone forth to bless the world. Mr. Sowers at a very early age was converted to Christ and became a Christian. He united with the Baptist Church. His heart has remained loyal to Christ to the end. His life was true. His consecration to the cause was the very best. He served the Master well. His influence and his deeds will linger as sacred memories in the minds of all who have known him. It is said, "The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord." And of a truth, his spirit has been a great shining light in a world darkened by sin. Mr. Sowers has been for many years a faithful member of the Masonic fraternity. He leaves to mourn this sad bereavement his loving wife, six children, three sons, Rufus, John, and Howard, three daughters, Mrs. B. F. Allbritton, Mrs. C. J. Erskines and Mrs. W. C. Abrams of Sikes; many grandchildren as well as one brother, Mr. Ben Sowers of Dodson and one sister, Mrs. Liles of Alto, Texas, and many, many friends. Two boys have preceded their father in death, the oldest, Monroe, and the youngest, Samuel. We do not understand this sad experience. No dear friends God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform. Death as well as life is a mystery. Some day the shadows will fade away, and we shall stand in the sunshine of God's bright day, then we shall understand."