John Albert Morris LS Chuck Wagon LS Ranch 1895

John A. Morris - standing just right of the barber pole.

John Morris passed into the beyond on March 15, 1906 age 30 years and 20 days. He was converted and was baptised into Christ about 12 years ago. I had the privelege of being his Sunday school teacher about that time. He was punctual and faithful as a student and much loved by all who knew him. During the past years I had seen very little of him, but whenever in his company he was patient in his affliction, cheerful and resigned to his condition. In speaking to me of his condition on several occasions he said,"I have never prayed to get well, but I pray constantly to be ready for death, and a home in heaven." In reference to his past life he said: "I never did anything mean, but I have been thoughtless and found pleasure in frivolous amusements. I know God has forgiven me and if this affliction had not come upon me I might not have been ready for death. Now I think of little else than to prepare to meet God in peace." He had the privilege of christian parents and during the past three years of his life his father was his constant companion, and I never knew a more devoted faithful christian, and earnest bible student. James tells us in 5:16, "the effectual fervant prayer of a righteous man availeth much." Then we have reason to hope that the life and prayers of that father may continue to avail much in behalf of all his loved ones, especially those who are out of the Ark of Safety and seem to be forgetful that "now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation." Home had great attractions for John, and he was especially anxious to spend his last days with his parents and loved ones. Now that the spiritual reflection or "image of God" has passed over the tide, it is still calling for them. When I learned that it was thought John was entering into the "valley of the shadow of death" I prayed God would lead him fearlessly through, and several times I would think of him and sing "Lead Me Gently Home Father." Since then I learned he prayed to die easy with a smile of resignation. Judge McKinnon and several of his loved ones were watching him during the last moments, and with an expression of freedom from fear and pain he said: "Boys, you don't know, you can't understand, but the evidence is all in; I've won the case," then raised his hands, smiled sweetly and was "asleep in Jesus," with a full consciousness of God's presence and love. Dear parents and loved ones, not many years will wane apace when we will pass over one by one. May we each be thus led and be welcomed on the other side by our saviour, and "the spirits of just men made perfect," is the prayer of a true friend. Ella F. Nicks