Ava Missouri

Biography of Prof. G. M. Siler

Prof. G. M. Siler, born on July 28, 1864, in Holt County, Missouri, has established a distinguished career in education since beginning his teaching in 1882. He educated himself at local schools and Bradleyville School and currently leads the school in Rome. Siler balances his teaching with farming on his 160-acre property. Politically active as a Republican, he served as county assessor from 1888 to 1890. Married to Rachel A. Jennings, he is a respected member of the community with two surviving children.

Biography of M. C. Reynolds

M. C. Reynolds, born December 30, 1844, in Tennessee, moved to Douglas County, Missouri, in 1856. After engaging in agriculture, he established a successful mercantile business in Ava, becoming the county’s leading merchant. Reynolds held various political roles, including county treasurer and postmaster. A prominent community member, he was also the president of the Bank of Ava, which he helped develop since its inception in 1890. Married to Elizabeth Hailer, they had three children and were active members of the Baptist Church.

Biography of Capt. Edmond D. Pennington

Capt. Edmond D. Pennington, born in White County, Tennessee, on January 26, 1825, served in the Union Army during the Civil War with the Fifth Tennessee Cavalry. He was promoted to captain and engaged in notable battles, including Stone River. After the war, he farmed in Tennessee before moving to Kansas, and finally to Ava, Missouri, where he operated a mill and dabbled in lead mining. Married to Lucinda Brown, he had nine children. Capt. Pennington is respected in his community for his contributions and independent political stance.

Biography of D. R. Riggs

D. R. Riggs, born on May 20, 1832, in Maury County, Tennessee, has been a significant figure in Douglas County, Missouri. A descendant of Revolutionary War soldiers, he moved to Missouri with his mother after his father’s death. He married Lucinda McQuerter and engaged in various businesses, including running a hotel and farming. Riggs is recognized for his success in stock dealing and is actively involved in the community and the Methodist Church. He and Lucinda have four children, continuing their family’s legacy in the region.

Biography of James M. Curnutt

James M. Curnutt, born on July 12, 1835, in Campbell County, Tennessee, has been a notable figure in Ava since 1876. He grew up in a farming family, learned from a strong work ethic, and served in the Civil War as part of the 143rd Indiana Infantry. After moving to Missouri, he became Douglas County’s clerk, displaying political loyalty to the Republican Party. A retired merchant and member of the General Baptist Church, Curnutt is recognized for his public service and integrity within the community.

Biography of Rev. William J. Fulton

Rev. William J. Fulton, born in Robertson County, Tennessee on November 26, 1840, dedicated his life to serving others through education and ministry, joining the General Baptist Church after teaching for six years. He has been a minister for fifteen years and significantly increased church membership while residing on a 160-acre farm in Missouri. A Union veteran of the Civil War, Fulton is active in local politics and community organizations. Married to Sarah J. Stubbs, they have nine children and are respected members of their community.

Biography of James Hailey

James Hailey, the oldest resident of Ava, was born on February 7, 1824, in Tennessee. He moved to Missouri with his family in 1839 and pursued a successful political career, serving as county clerk, probate judge, and postmaster. A Democrat and Civil War veteran, he was active in community affairs and was involved in shaping the town of Ava. Married to Mary C. Rowe, they had nine children. Hailey also operated a hotel for nearly twenty years, gaining a reputation as a respected citizen.

Biography of James P. M. Norman

James P. M. Norman, born April 27, 1847, in Carroll County, Georgia, has been a prominent figure in Douglas County, Missouri. After his family moved there in 1863, he pursued education and became a successful farmer and educator. Norman served as county assessor and later as county collector, reflecting his commitment to local governance. Married twice, he had several children and was actively involved in community affairs, including the Methodist Episcopal Church and Masonry, establishing himself as a leading citizen in his region.

Biography of H. M. Miller, M. D.

H. M. Miller, M.D., a pioneer of Douglas County since 1856, was born in Tennessee on November 12, 1837. He began his career as a farmer and served in several military units during the Civil War. After the war, he opened a drug store in Ava, where he also practiced medicine. Active in community affairs, he was involved with local organizations and the Republican party. Dr. Miller married twice and had eight children, gaining prominence as a respected businessman and community leader.

Biography of John H. Martin

John H. Martin, born on July 27, 1842, in Blount County, Tennessee, is a prominent farmer in Douglas County, Missouri. He served in the Second Tennessee Cavalry during the Civil War, participating in numerous battles. After the war, he settled in Missouri, where he became involved in agriculture and public service, including a term as circuit clerk. Martin is an active community member, involved in the Methodist Episcopal Church and various local organizations. He and his wife, Sarah C. Best, have five children.

Gorrell, Uva L. Dodson Mrs. – Obituary

Uva L. Gorrell, aged 89, passed away on March 29, 2003, at her Baker City home. A funeral is scheduled for April 3 at Coles Funeral Home, followed by interment at Mount Hope Cemetery. Born on September 4, 1913, in Tennessee, she moved to Baker City in 1939. She was known for her gardening and fishing skills. Uva is survived by her husband, three daughters, five grandsons, and numerous great-grandchildren. Donations in her memory may be made to local health services.