Obituary

B.T. Ansley, Sr., Dies After Lingering Illness; Pioneer Plainsman Laid to Rest in Plainview Cemetery Yesterday Afternoon
B.T. Ansley, Sr. was called from his earthly to his heavenly home early Wednesday morning, December 29, 1915, surrounded by his family and fully prepared for the great change.
Mr. Ansley?s death was not unexpected, as he had been confined to his home for several weeks.
He was born in Upson County, Ga., in 1840. His parents started to Texas in 1854. Upon reaching New Orleans they were smitten with Asiatic cholera, his father and several other members of the family dying from the dread disease.
Mr. Ansley was married to Miss Martha Smyer, in Smith County, Texas, in 1869. She, with seven of the eight children, survives him, six of whom live in the city. B.T. Ansley, Jr., Dan E. Ansley, Sam T. Ansley and Misses Rebecca, Della, and Julia Ansley. Wince Ansley, another son, is a resident of Dumas, Texas.
The deceased had been a devout member of the Methodist Church for nearly forty years. His long and useful life was exemplified by his death. ?It pays, boy, to be ready,? he said to one of his sons a few hours before his death.
Mr. Ansley was a member of the 17th Texas Regiment during the Civil War and was present at several imporant engagements. He was a true pioneer in spirit, moving from county to county as civilization encroached upon the boundless prairies of the West.
The funeral services were conducted at the home, on West Second Street. at three o?clock Thursday afternoon by Rev. J.W. Story. The interment took place in the city cemetery. A.A. Hatchell, funeral director of Paxton & Oswald, had charge of the funeral.
The profusion of beautiful flowers was a fitting tribute to the life of one who was ever ready to help those who needed help.
The honorary pall bearers at the funeral were Rev. A.B. Roberts, Dr. Jas. Pickettt, Capt. C.W. Tandy, J.H. Buntin, J.C. Jones and A.L. Maupin. The active pall bearers were Judge R.C. Joiner, J.N. Jordan, J.W. Wayuland, A.J. Crager, R.A. Long, and N.V. Speer. (Plainview Evening Herald, December 31, 1915)