J. D. McKennon, one of La Grande’s best known citizens, passed away at his home here Sunday afternoon at about 1:30, following a short illness. Mr. McKennon’s death came as a shock to his many friends, having been in the best of health and attending to business until seven o’clock Saturday evening, when he was taken with a chill. Although he passed a somewhat restless night, he was apparently feeling better during the morning and not until shortly before noon did his condition become grave, a sudden change in the setting at that time. Death was due to pneumonia complicated by heart trouble.
Deceased was born in Berryville, Arkansas, in 1857, being 65 years of age at the time of his death. He was raised on a farm, but although he was the owner of a number of farms in the Grande Ronde Valley, he always made his interests in the city the object of his personal attention.
His wife and two children mourn his passing. The children are Mrs. James Dobbin and Raymond McKennon, who reside on adjoining ranches in the valley. L. L. McKennon of this city is a brother. Dr. A. M. McKennon, of Clarkeville, Arkansas, is another brother. Mrs. J.M. Berry, of Portland, and Mrs. B. A. Hamilton are sisters. Mr. McKennon also leaves a number of grandchildren and nieces and nephews to mourn his loss.
La Grande Observer, 1922
Contributed by: Larry Rader