John E.Eldridge, Prominent Citzen Passes Away: On Saturday morning the soul of our friend John E.Eldridge winged its flight to the God who gave it. He had been in failing health for several years, but was only confined to his bed a few weeks. When all that medical skill, loving hearts and willing hands could do proved unavailing, he passed over the river to rest under the shade of the trees. In the passing of Mr.Eldridge, Forrest City loses one of her best and most honored citizens; ane excellent example of true, noble, and Christian manhood, one to be emulated. He was a devoted husband, a fond father, a faithfu friend. Modest and unassuming to a degree, he sought the right way, and when it was found, he marched in it never swerving. The funeral services were held in the Methodist church, of which he had been a member for over 30 years, and held honorary positions, as a honorary Trustee at the time of his death, services conducted by Rev.W.C.Davidson, of Little Rock, assisted by the presiding elder of the Forrest City District, Rev.W.B.Hayes. These ministers paid loving tribute to God's noblest work-"a good man." John Edward Eldridge was born in Germantown, Tenn., Jan.18,1846. He moved to St.Francis county with his parents when very young, and ever afterwards made it his home. He was married to Miss Mary Winnifred Laughinghouse, Jan.13,1869. He carried her to the sweet little home he had prepared for his bride, and there they lived ever since and raised their family of six noble sons and two daughters, Mrs.Joe Gray and Miss Maggie Eldridge. One son, John Jr. died in infancy. At the age of 18 he joined the Confederate army as a volunteer-was wounded and taken prisoner, on account of his youth and through the influence of his friend, Mrs.John Mallory, he was released and allowed to go home. Mr.and Mrs.Eldridge celebrated their Golden Anniversary on the 13th of January 1919. All their children and their 13 grand children gathered for this happy event. He leaves behind him to mourn his loss, the widow, six sons and two daughters. The active pall bearers were his six sons:Fenner, Percy, Rolfe, Guy, Fred and George Eldridge. Honorary pall bearers were:T.C.Merwin, Silas C.Campbell, Berry Fussell, Atkins Johnson, R.L.Pettus, T.W.McClendon, Dr.L.H.Merritt, and Dr.H.R.Clark. Forrest City Times Herald Sep.20,1920

Arkansas Confederate Pensions Surname:Eldridge Given Name:John Edward Application Number:29212-Widow Surname:Eldridge Widow Given Name: Mary-Company:F Regiment:1 (Dobbins')State Served From:Arkansas Division:Cavalry Pension County:St. Francis Death Date:8/28/1920-Comments:widow applied 1927