Yes, that's a real line from a real obituary—a piece of 19th-century prose that didn't just report a death, but painted a vivid portrait of the deceased.
The subject of the two obituaries transcribed below is George Walker III (1793-1865), son of the Revolutionary War soldier George Walker II (1763-1830) and his wife Betsey (1767-1835). George II settled in Pulaski County about the time of its formation in 1808. His home is said to have been built in a hilly section near the Twiggs County line. Sons of George built their homes on a three-and-a-half-mile stretch of the surrounding flatlands that became known as "Longstreet."
George Walker III was a private in Tooke's Georgia Cavalry during the War of 1812. He and his wife, Martha Spann (1801-1866), were buried in the Walker family cemetery in Bleckley County, Georgia, which was carved out of Pulaski in 1912.
Obituary I
An interesting thing about this first obituary is that it actually lists the faults of Mr. George Walker. That is a rare thing in an age where commenting on the strength of one's character was more important than noting the genealogical facts of their lives. Most obituaries of the time were fluff pieces, to be sure.
Georgia Journal and Messenger (Macon, GA)
4 October 1865
The friends of Mr. GEORGE WALKER will regret to learn that he died of Bilious Fever at his residence in Longstreet, Pulaski county, on the 30th ult., in the 73d year of his age.
Mr. WALKER was born in Burke county, Ga., on the 13th day of August, 1793, and about 1808 moved with his parents to Pulaski county, where he ever after lived. He was an extraordinary man. No one could know him without being impressed with the fact that he rose far above the generality of mankind. He had a very large share of common sense. In matters which had claimed his attention, the judgment of but few men was superior to his. He was a man of business, and for it his capacity was remarkable, whether considered as to variety, general arrangement or minute detail. He was ever punctual. GEORGE WALKER was no uncertain dragging mortal. Whatever was the work in hand, he was uniformly at the proper place, and in the proper time, and no one could possess his respect who failed in this particular. His decision was great and his energy was indomitable. Having determined upon a certain course of conduct, he pursued it with all his might. No difficulties discouraged, and no dangers appalled him. He moved on through his round of various duties with a directness, a fixedness of heart which excited the confidence and admiration of all who knew him. His aim was pure and lofty. Uprightness and integrity walked with him arm in arm. He was emphatically an honest man—honest in his dealings, in his opinions, in his rebukes and in his commendations. He had his faults, for he was mortal, but they were not those of a groveling, sordid nature. He sometimes erred in judgment, was sometimes irritable and impatient, sometimes used expressions of needless severity, and sometimes urged his opinions with a zeal bordering on obstinacy. His friends might dissent from opinions, and even sometimes indulge in language of complaint; but still they were compelled to acknowledge that he was a good and upright man.
He was a pious man. He loved his Saviour, his cause and people, and for their advancement he labored. The poor will feel that they have lost a benefactor. He was the leading spirit of the community, and identified with all its interests. Whether as a man, a citizen or as a christian, his place will long remain vacant.
He leaves a disconsolate wife and two children, with a very large circle of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. He did not live for himself alone, and though dead, will long live in the hearts of those who love his memory.
G. R. M.
Obituary II
Daily Journal and Messenger (Macon, GA)
8 September 1865
DIED,
At Longstreet, Pulaski county, on the 30th ult., Mr. GEORGE WALKER, aged about 70 years. Mr. Walker has long been known as a most enterprising planter, a useful and public spirited citizen, in everything pertaining to the community in which he lived. He was one of the directors of the Brunswick railroad, and did much by his influence and means to originate and carry on the work. He was a leading member of the Baptist church, a devoted Brother of the Masonic order, and practiced all the virtues and charities belonging to a Christian, and of the ancient order of Masonry. His work has been well and faithfully done on the square, with all mankind, and we trust, that as a Christian, he will receive the welcome of a good and faithful servant, from the Grand Master of the Universe, to partake of the rewards of a well spent life.
For more information about the family of George Walker II, visit
The Ancestor Collection.
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