Oscar R. Smith Passes Away
Oscar R. Smith, a well known printer and newspaper man of West Florida and South Alabama, passed away at his home here Wednesday afternoon at four o’clock, death following an ill ness of several weeks of stomach trouble and other complications.
The funeral took place Thursday afternoon at two o’clock, the cortege leaving the residence on Pennsylvania avenue and going to the Methodist church where an impressive funeral service was held, conducted by the pastor. Rev. H. T. Strout. The [pallbearers] were: E. A. Williams, L. P. Hickman, J. B. Elliott, members of The Advertiser staff, and Chas. Terry, Allen Davis and M. M. Owens. The interment was made in the city cemetery,
The deceased is survived by a wife and five children, of this city, father and mother and one brother and sister, of Iuka, Miss.
Mr. Smith was 39 years of age. He came to Florida from Mississippi twenty years ago and engaged in newspaper work in DeFuniak Springs, later going to Florala. Ala., where he became editor and manager of The News-Democrat. He remained in active charge of that paper until last year when his health gave way and he was forced to abandon work and take a much needed rest. Having partially regained his health and strength, he came to Bonifay last February and accepted a position with The Advertiser. A short time ago he was compelled to leave his work and although the best medical skill available was secured in his behalf, nothing could be done for him and the end came quietly and peacefully Wednesday afternoon.
Mr. Smith was well known by practically every newspaper publisher and printer in West Florida and South Alabama and he was held in the highest esteem by all of them. He was kindly, charitable, and the friend of the oppressed. His life was gentle, but like the still waters, it was deep. In his heart of hearts he carried those he loved and his hand was never weary, his step never failed in caring for and ministering to those who were in any way [dependent] upon him.
Throughout the day Thursday the family received messages of sympathy from friends and neighbors from several towns, the following being from Florala, the former home of Mr. Smith:
“Florala, Ala., Oct. 26.
“Mrs. 0. R. Smith, Bonifay, Fla.
“We all extend deepest sympathy to you and family during this sad hour of yours. Signed: Mid Russell, W. L. Howell and family, W. J. McPhail, J, A. Burgess, D. W. Quillin, R. K. Council, J. M. Parrish, C. C. Beasley and family, R. A. French, Walter Brown, Massey Bardin, T. C. Penton, R. L. Bracewell, H. O. Martin, J. P. Phillips, R. G. Hoover, J. P. Doster, T. R. Higdon, Owen F. Lee, S. T. Spradley, Chas. D. Matthews, Willmer Terry, J. A. Redding, J. L. Sellers, J. J. Bell and J. W. Evans.” — Holmes County, Fla. Advertiser.
[Source: The Florala (Alabama) News, November 2, 1916, Page 1]
[Burial: Greenwood Memorial Cemetery, Florala, Alabama]
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