Obituary: Aaron F. Yoakum, eldest child of Robert and Mary Yoakum, was born in Tazewell, Tenn., on June 29, 1861; and passed from this earthly life at the Research Hospital in Kansas City, Mo.; at the age of 78 years, 3 months, 12 days.
Coming with his parents to Missouri at the age of ten, Aaron began his long railroading career at the age of eighteen. His occupation carried him into Kansas, Washington, Montana, Old Mexico and Mississippi before his marriage in 1904. He was married to Molly Hanllen of Birmingham, Alabama in 1904, and their home was from that time in Natchez, Miss., where his connection with the Mississippi Central Rail Road continued until his retirement about 10 years ago. His beloved wife preceded him in death on March 4th of this year.
Aaron was a member of the Methodist Church in his home town, and was a 32nd degree Mason.
Surviving him are one brother and four sisters; Mrs. Lucinda Retzlaff, Waterville, Mrs. Minerva Moody, Waterville, Mrs. Florence Blenn, Denver, Colorado; Albert Yoakum, Waterville; and Mrs. Rhoda Pritz of Waterville. He is the fourth of his family to be called, his parents and two of his brothers having preceded him in death.
His health was generally good, he approached his older age with such robustness that it was said of him, "He is the oldest yet he remains the youngest." His exceptional health made it possible for him to work as a passenger engineer for many years of his life with such care that a number of safety driving medals were awarded him.
Services were conducted from the Youngeberg Funeral Home by Rev. Geo. L. Search, Thursday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock. Masons of the local order were in charge. Interment was made in Riverside Cemetery. (Src: Waterville Telegraph, September, 1939.)