OBITUARIES: Nancy Sherrod Rather, 20 Mar 1890 - Smith County, TX J. H. Rather - 24 Mar 1890 Submitted by Vicki Betts 7 December 2002 Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ***************************************************************** TEXAS CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, May 14, 1890, p. 7, c. 4 RATHER. Mrs. Nancy Rather (nee Sherrod) was born in Pickens county, Ala., Aug. 18, 1826, and died in Smith county, Texas, March 20, 1890. Was married to W. D. Rather, Dec. 3, 1846. Sister Rather was converted in 1855, and became a member of Congregational Methodist Church. After coming to Texas, she united with the M. E. Church, South, in 1870, in which she lived until called to rest. She was of a retiring disposition, never rendering herself conspicuous in any circle. But her chaste life was well rounded, and was filled with good to all that knew her. A good wife, a kind and affectionate mother, and an obliging neighbor, she leaves behind her the odor of a good name. Her afflictions were severe, but she bore them with patience and entire resignation to the Divine will. She died easy, and without a murmur. The family remaining, consisting of husband, two daughters and five sons, all grown, are in great sorrow, being doubly afflicted. At the time of the death of the mother, J. H. Rather, a son, and a promising young man, was lying very low with pneumonia, which resulted in his death four days after, on March 24, 1890. He was born June 24th, 1850. Johnny was not a member of the church, but admired her principles, and was grieved when her honor was reproached. He was brought up under religious influences, which had already resulted in a sober, industrious, moral life. His life would compare favorably with the young men of the church. He was a constant attendant upon the revivals held in Tyler a few weeks ago by Rev. Sam P. Jones, and expressed himself, after the meeting, as being greatly benefited. So, while we mourn, it is not as those who have no hope. And now, that these loved ones are gone from our midst—have fought the last battle and crossed over the last dark river, let the surviving relatives and friends cherish the fond hope of meeting soon where there is no death. Thank God this is the heaven-born privilege of all, and may his grace sustain and comfort the bereaved. T. T. BOOTH, Pastor.