James Martin Price, son of John and Lucretia Price, was born ten miles south of Savannah, Hardin County, Tenn., March 12, 1849. Died May 30, 1909.

He passed his childhood days in his native state working on the farm in the summer and attending school at intervals through the winter. But like boys of that part of the country he grew up strong and fearless, and when the storm of war came and whirled and eddyed round him and the shock of battle was heard. It aroused his retiring soul and filled his patriotic heart with a longing to shoulder a gun and do battle for his country. Although a mere lad in age and stature he was a man in thought and action, and repeatedly offered his services to his country, but was as often rejected on account of his years. After a brave and hard struggle, and when their property had been all swept away by marauding bands of guerillas, the family moved to Richview,Ill., in March,1863.

There the subject of this sketch toiled bravely on, ever keeping in his mind his country's call, and on Feb. 4, 1865, he enlisted in Company I, 154th Ill. Infantry, at the age of 15, becoming the youngest boy in the company. He did his duty as a soldier, obeyed every order with a manly courage. He was by nature retiring but cheerful, and kind to his comrades and with a cheerful smile would divide his meagre rations, share the contents of his canteen and sip coffee from the same tin cup with his fellow soldier.

In 1867 he married Miss Dora Dillingham, of this city, and to them were born six children; his three sons, Walter, Earl, and Taylor, survive him. His wife died June 8, 1894. Since the mother's death, in Earl's own language, "He has been father and mother ever since we could remember."

Mr. Price began to decline in health about a year ago, but he kept going till about the 20th of April, when he was confined to his room and most of the time to his bed, but his strong will rallied him several times and hopes were entertained for his ultimate recovery, but he made a brave stand in a losing fight; the Reaper had claimed him. The writer visited him a short time before his death and his greetings were as of old, but on taking his hand there was a twitching of the grasp that was unnatural; but his eyes and manner spoke cheerfulness and devoted friendship. During the last few days his suffering was intense but he bore it bravely, and turned his wan, pale face and with weary eyes looked out on the beautiful, cool shades and above the rumble of the busy world he listened to the voice of his Maker.

The funeral service was conducted by Rev. C.D. Shumard, Monday, May 31 and the burial was at Bethel.

Source: Mt. Vernon Register News
Date: June 9, 1909 Issue
Submitted by: Jerry L Price