OBITUARY:  Benny Olive, 18 Feb 1883 - Smith County, TX

Submitted by Vicki Betts <Vicki_Betts@mail.uttyl.edu
15 Sep 2002

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TEXAS CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, March 17, 1883, p. 7, c. 5
OLIVE.—Benny, son of J. H. and Mary A. Olive, died of hydrophobia,
February 18, 1883, in Smith county, Texas. He was nearly eight 
years old. He was bitten by a dog that was passing his home, 
December 15, 1882. A physician was called, and means used to 
prevent the dreaded disease. In a few days he seemed to be well, 
and remained so until February 14, when symptoms of hydrophobia 
developed. He could not eat, drink, nor sleep; though he suffered 
very little, except during the short and frequent convulsions, 
which grew steadily worse, until death released the sufferer and 
relieved the painful suspense of parents and friends. He was 
rational nearly all the time, talking almost incessantly and 
very intelligently for one of his age. In rapid succession he 
told many tragedies that he had witnessed, read, or heard of. 
During the last few hours, he talked about death, the destruction 
of the world by fire, and other such things. At last he said, 
"I am going to die." "I see the angels." "I see Bro. Tommie," 
(who had died in infancy). "I see Jesus." Then there was a 
momentary struggle, and he was gone. The parents expect to meet 
their Bennie again. They have faith in God. May his grace 
sustain them, and his spirit comfort them.

                                        —E. C. OGBURN.