Philo V. Payne
Transcribed from the Allegany County News, October 23, 1913.
Mention was made in this paper last week of the death of one of this vicinity’s best known and most respected citizens, Philo V. Payne. It is our good fortune to be able to reproduce his likeness in this issue of The News.
Mr. Payne passed away at his home in Payneville, at 6 o’clock Sunday morning, October 12. Although he had been in failing health for a long time, his demise was not looked for just then. He had been gradually failing for some time, and yet the hope was held that he might survive the temporary depression and again be around among his many friends. But in spite of all that devoted hands could do, his weakened heart failed to perform its organic function and fastened itself permanently upon the mortal body.
Philo V. Payne was the fourth of nine children, born to Major R. and Orilla Harris Payne, June 20, 1844, at Payneville. On July 20, 1867 he was united in marriage to Emma Richmond.
The deceased leaves a most devoted wife, a most exemplary daughter, Letty O., the wife of C. C. Coats, and a very promising grandson, Phil S., and wife. The whole family lived in one home. The tie of love and affection was strongly pronounced among them all, and they all did much for each other’s comfort and welfare.
Mr. Payne is also survived by two brothers, Cornelius of Oregon, and Frank H., of Payneville. Three sisters also survive, Mrs. Emmeline Payne of Payneville, Mrs. L. W. Hull of North Hill, and Mrs. J. M. Spicer of Whitesville, beside a large circle of relatives and friends.
Mr. Payne was a devout Universalist and generous in the support of the work of that church. He had been a member of the local church for a good many years. He was a good soldier in the Civil War, and was a member of Sawyer Post 333 G.A.R., of Whitesville. He was a strong Republican in politics.
We shall all miss him, at the church, at social gatherings on Memorial day, at his home where many felt free and welcome to visit. But such is life, and his passing on make the Heavenly host larger to welcome the loved ones who will answer the summons when their turn comes.
A prayer service was held at the late home prior to the service at the Universalist church at 1 o’clock Tuesday. At the church a large congregation that overtaxed the capacity of the building waited, while Mrs. George Forsythe played on the organ a variety of the old-time hymns. Then the pastor, Rev. J. D. Herrick, read the scriptural account of the resurrection as recorded in the 24th chapter of Luke. Then Mrs. Forsythe sang “Beautiful Isle of Somewhere.” This was followed by a strong doctrinal sermon on salvation by the pastor which brought comfort and consolation to all Christians and believers of the larger faith. With concluding poem and prayer, paying just tribute to a life well spent, Mr. and. Mrs. Forsythe sang “Abide With Me.” Then the body was accompanied by a large concourse of friends to Rural Cemetery, where consignment was made in the family plot.
I cannot think of them as dead,
Who walk with me no more
There is, henceforth, no more dead;
They have but preceded me to the
Heavenly shore.