Barry's Genealogy Diary

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-12-23T16:41:00.002-05:00

Svitlana, Lydia and I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I have not been posting to this site for over a month now. It has been a busy few weeks. I will try to get some content posted early in 2012. Until then, God bless everyone. Let us not forget the true meaning of Christmas.

Barry

MARVIN RAY SELF, 79, HAS DIED

2011-11-12T08:42:00.002-05:00

Marvin Ray Self of Athens, Tennessee died Tuesday, Nov. 8, in NHC of Athens. A native of Monroe County, former resident of Blount County and resident of McMinn County since 1956, he was a son of the late Carra and Hannah Young Carmley Self. He was a member of Eastanallee Baptist Church, and sang with several area quartets including the Gospelaires of Athens, appearing on Mull's Singing Convention, and was active in singing with the McMinn County Senior Citizens and will always be remembered for his bass voice. He was a former employee of Sterchi Brother's Furniture Company, Mayfield's Dairy Farms, Beaunit and he retired from Hammer Johnson Supply, Westinghouse-Athens Products, after 20 years of service. He was a sergeant in the U.S. Army, having served in the Korean Conflict with the 11th Airborne Division as a clerk and also was a member of the Army Band. He was a member of American Legion Post #68; a member of Meridian Sun Lodge #50 F.&A.M.; a 32nd Degree Mason; a member of the York Rite Bodies (Chapter Council and Commandery); member of Chattanooga Consistory Scottish Rite of Free Masonery; former member of Alhambra Shrine Temple and was in the Chilhowee Clown Unit. He was a member and past patron of Athenian Chapter #159 O.E.S. and he and his wife were members of the Past Matrons and Past Patrons of Middle Tennessee O.E.S. He was 79. Survivors include: wife of 56 years-Mary M. Smalling Self; Son and daughter-in-law-David Ray and Tammy Self of Nashville; Daughter and son-in-law-Debbie and Alan Bohannon of Athens; Brother-Luke Carmley of Monroe County; Five grandchildren-Kimberly Faith and husband Steve Hazelwood, Angela and husband Joseph Boone, Brian Carra Self, Paige Self and Kelly Self; Four great-grandchildren-Olivia Hazelwood, Joshua Alan Hazelwood, Katlyn Bohannon and Cameron Boone. Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 12, in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home with the Rev. Oran Creasman and Rev. Ralph Jenkins officiating. Interment will follow the service at McMinn Memory Gardens. Active pallbearers will be Marlin Carmley, Pat McGinnis, Brian Self, Don Crabtree, David Pickens, Carroll Best, Wilburn Carmley and Andy Best. Honorary pallbearers will be Adult Men's Three Sunday School Class of Eastanallee Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m., Friday in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home. Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home in Athens, Tenn. is in charge of the arrangements.

PICTURES FROM COUSIN CONNIE GEDDINGS

2011-11-01T15:43:00.007-05:00

Cousin Connie Geddings is the daughter of the late Lillie Pearl Self Geddings, who passed away on September 11 of this year. Cousin Connie emailed me three picures she recently came across in her mother's things. They are great pictures and I thank Connie for sharing them with us. The date on the pictures indicate the snapshots were taken around July 1962. All three were taken at Citico Cemetery in Vonore, Tennessee, probably at the gravesite of Harrison Cicero Self, husband of Lizzie Cottrell Self Hawkins. The first picture at the top is of Emery Self, Frank Self and his sister, Lula Self Burnett. The second picture is of Lula Self Burnett and her mother, Lizzie Cottrell Self Hawkins. The third picture is of:left to right Lula Self Burnett and son Harry, Frank Self and sons Mike and Steve, Douglas Self with son Samuel Jr., Lennis Self and daughters, Darlene and Debbie, June Self and Faye Self Strickland standing behind Lizzie Cottrell Self Hawkins and Barbara Strickland.

SIGNIFICANT ANNIVERSARY !!!

2011-10-21T18:57:00.004-05:00

Sunday, October 23, 2011 will mark the 160th wedding anniversary of John Jones Self and Lydia Avaline Waters Self. They were married in the Gaddistown District of Union County, Georgia. John was 26 and Lydia was 18 when they married. They had 11 children. For more information on this couple, do a search on this site using their names.

MORE PHOTOS FROM SELF FAMILY REUNION

2011-10-21T13:23:00.007-05:00

MORE PHOTOS FROM THE SELF FAMILY REUNION

2011-10-19T16:13:00.005-05:00

MORE SELF FAMILY REUNION PHOTOS

2011-10-18T21:04:00.009-05:00

MORE PHOTOS FROM THE SELF FAMILY REUNION 2011

2011-10-05T19:44:00.011-05:00

ANNUAL SELF FAMILY REUNION WAS A BLAST

2011-10-05T18:23:00.023-05:00

The annual Self Family Reunion was held September 24 at the Pearson Springs Rotary Pavilion in Maryville, Tennessee. I probably say this every year, but the reunion just gets better and better. The attendance gets better and the food and fellowship get better. We enjoyed a delicious meal and some wonderful conversation that lasted into the early evening. It was so good to see everyone have a good time. I apologize for not getting the photos posted sooner, but I had some difficulty. Thanks to everyone who was able to attend. We plan on meeting at the same place next year.

LILLIE PEARL LEE SELF GEDDINGS OBITUARY

2011-09-12T07:28:00.002-05:00

LILLIE PEARL LEE SELF GEDDINGS age 79, of West Knoxville, native of Monroe County, daughter of the late Harrison Cicero Self and Lizzie Cottrell Self Hawkins, went to be with the Lord Sunday, September 11, 2011. She was a long-time faithful member of Rocky Hill Baptist Church. Pearl retired from UTIA in 1993. She was also preceded in death by husband, Daniel A. Geddings, Jr.; step-father, Lloyd Hawkins; sister, Bonnie Mae Self Case; brother, Samuel Douglas Self. She is survived by her loving and devoted daughter, Connie Diane Geddings and fiancé, Samuel S. Stalcup, Jr.; brothers and sister-in-law, Jake and Peggy Self of Madisonville, Frank Self of Knoxville; sisters and brother-in-law, Faye Strickland of Madisonville, Lula Burnette of Maynardville, Nellie Hawkins of Greenback, and Helen and William Gibby of Hermitage, Tennessee; special brother/nephew, Samuel Self, Jr. and wife Evelyn of Knoxville; niece, Sarah Self Bledsoe of Madisonville; many other nephews and nieces; special friends, Norma and Don Huddleston and Lucille Knight; her beloved pets, Daffy, Angel and Oreo. A special thanks to Brakebill Nursing Home for their wonderful care in her last few weeks. The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 P.M. Monday at Rocky Hill Baptist Church followed by a service at 7:00 P.M. with Dr. Terry Kirby officiating. The family and friends will meet Tuesday at Citico Cemetery, Vonore, Monroe County for an 11:00 A.M. graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her memory to: Rocky Hill Baptist Church Missions, 7409 Northshore Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37919. On line condolences may be made at www.rosemortuary.com. Arrangements provided by Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel.

SELF FAMILY REUNION SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

2011-09-02T14:11:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year again... yes "it's football time in Tennessee". You are right, but it is also time for something else. The 26th annual Self Family Reunion will be Saturday, September 24 at the Pearson Springs Rotary Pavilion in Maryville, Tennessee. The pavilion is on Montvale Station Road. We will begin gathering around 3p.m. and share a covered dish meal around 4 p.m. Directions: on Hwy. 411 N. in Maryville, turn right at the Exxon station onto Sandy Springs Road. Pass Foothills School, turn left onto Montvale Station Road. Go approximately 1/2 mile. The pavilion entrance is on the left, just before Sandy Springs Park. Turn into the entrance and go down the hill to the pavilion parking lot. For more information call ph. 423-420-9253. Hoping to see you there!

TOMMY THOMAS TO CELEBRATE 89TH BIRTHDAY

2011-08-17T15:41:00.008-05:00

Tommy Thomas, husband of the late Mildred Nancy Catherine Miller Thomas, who passed away on July 28, will celebrate his 89th birthday on Friday, August 19. Tommy was born in Madisonville, Tennessee and until a couple of months ago he lived in the same house where he was born on the outskirts of town. He is now living in an assisted living facility in Sweetwater. Tommy is pictured above with his late wife Mildred. Mildred is also pictured in a separate photo. The third photo is of the wood stove that sits in the kitchen of the Thomas home. My wife and I have spent many wonderful times sitting around this wood stove, talking and visiting with Tommy and Mildred. Mildred was a wonderful person and so is Tommy. We congratulate him on his 89th birthday. The photos are compliments of Billie Miller of Tunnel Hill, GA.

OBITUARY OF CLEO MARIE SELF SHARP

2011-08-17T13:26:00.002-05:00

I suppose being over a month late in posting this obituary is not too good, but I only recently learned of the death and it took me awhile to locate the obituary to post it. Our sympathy is extended to the family.

Cleo Marie Sharp, age 77 of Andrews, NC passed away Thursday, July 7, 2011 at Murphy Medical Center in Murphy, NC. Mrs. Sharp was a native of Vonore, TN but lived most of her life in Cherokee County, NC. She was the daughter of the late Riley Columbus and Nelia Anderson Self. Cleo retired from Andrews High School where she worked in the cafeteria. She enjoyed working in her yard with flowers and quilting. Cleo was a member of the Valleytown Cemetery Chapel. Mrs. Sharp was preceded in death by her husband, Lewin Columbus Sharp and one brother, Tony Self. She is survived by four sons: Ricky Sharp and wife, Joann of Robbinsville, Mike Sharp and wife, Paula of Andrews, Tim Sharp and wife, Lou of Nantahala and Darren Sharp of the home; one daughter, Sherry Bryant also of the home; three brothers, Bennie Self and wife, Clarice Ann of Robbinsville, Mark Self and wife, Rita of Hickory, NC and Jerry Self of Hickory, NC and five sisters: Dotty Smith and husband, Ray of Pensacola, FL, Becky Smith of Robbinsville, Pam Worley and husband, Frank of Hickory, NC Avis Severt of Robbinsville and Mavis Cody and husband, Johnny of Robbinsville and five grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM, Sunday July 10, 2011 at the Valleytown Cemetery Chapel. Rev Ronnie Crisp will officiate. Special music will be provided by Johnny and Mavis Cody and the Valleytown Cemetery Chapel Quartet. Interment will be in the Valley River Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Rick Anderson, Bill Self, Darrin Self, Bruce Rose, Gary Rogers, and Ray Evans. Honorary pallbearers will be Chuck VanGorder, Bill Phillips, David Whitaker and Mark Self. The family will receive friends 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Saturday, July 9, 2011 at the Townson-Rose Chapel in Andrews, NC where Mrs. Sharp will remain until being placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the service hour. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., 2600 Network Blvd., Suite 300, Frisco, TX 75034.
You may send tributes to the Sharp family at www.townson-rose.com
Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

MILDRED MILLER THOMAS HAS DIED

2011-07-28T16:23:00.003-05:00

She was a painter, an author, a great storyteller, a preacher's daughter and an all around wonderful lady. Mildred Miller Thomas has died after several months of declining health. Her obituary follows.

THOMAS, MILDRED MILLER, age 86, of Madisonville, Tennessee passed away 11:45 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2011 at Sweetwater Hospital. Preceded in death by parents, Oliver and Mary Hartness Miller, sisters, Stella Miller, Edna Miller, Jessie Miller Harlow, Marian Aleen Miller and Edith Miller; brothers, Boyd Miller and Austin Miller; brother-in-law, Floyd Harlow. She was a member of South Madisonville Baptist Church. Survivors: husband, Hugh E. (Tommy) Thomas; sister, Ella Miller;
brother and sisters-in-law, Stanley and Loretta Miller, Dot Miller, Ann Miller;
nieces, Carol Harlow Caines and husband, Eugene, Jeanette Harlow; nephews, Ronald Miller and wife, Billie, Bobby Miller, Stephen Miller and wife, Suneetha,
David Miller and wife, Tammy; several grand nieces and grand-nephews, great-grand nieces and a great-great grand nephew. Funeral 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Biereley-Hale Chapel, Rev. Rick Harris officiating. Interment in Madisonville City Cemetery. Family will receive friends 10-11 a.m. Saturday at Biereley-Hale Funeral Home, Madisonville.

WHY DO THEY CALL IT THAT? TELLICO PLAINS IN MONROE COUNTY

2011-07-05T14:20:00.005-05:00

Visit the WBIR TV Channel 10 website (wbir.com) and click on the link for "Why Do They Call It That? Tellico Plains in Monroe County"

This segment recently aired on WBIR TV.

You may also go to the WATE TV Channel 6 website (WATE.COM) and look for Latest Video section to see video of "Tellico Plains celebrates Independence Day and 100th Birthday".

TELLICO PLAINS, TN CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

2011-07-05T09:05:00.005-05:00

The town of Tellico Plains, Tennessee celebrated its 100th anniversary this past weekend. The Tennessee Legislature incorporated the town on July 4, 1911. Special events were held throughout the weekend to commemorate the occasion. On Saturday afternoon, the town square was sectioned off and special kid-friendly events and activities were held. On Saturday evening, a square dance was held on the town square, complete with special music and fireworks. Many vendors were set up on the street, offering various food items and other goodies for sale. Monday at noon, the town hosted a parade of sorts as the traditional wagon train rolled through town. The regular flow of traffic came to a halt as horses, buggies and wagons took over the streets for a short time. This was the first time in several years the wagon train was a part of the Fourth of July activities for the town.

Wayne Dutton, of Madison, Georgia is shown above with his replica of a stage coach. Mr. Dutton and his stage coach led the wagon train thru town with former mayor, Charles Hall, on board. Hall, who served as the parade grand marshall, was mayor of Tellico Plains for over thirty years. Mr. Dutton said the stage coach is a replica of one from the old west and was hand built by a group of Amish men. It took a year to build the coach. Dutton had it built about 4 years ago. The other photo is of a pair of mules pulling a wagon with two unidentified men, who also rode in the parade.

The Tellico Plains Library also celebrated the town's centennial birthday on the Fourth of July. Guests enjoyed refreshments and had an opportunity to discuss the town's history from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tellico Plains is significant to our family. Our Self ancestors settled near Tellico Plains, at Turkey Creek, around 1885-1890, arriving from Union and Lumpkin Counties in Georgia.

REV. FRED C. SELF HAS DIED

2011-06-27T13:13:00.003-05:00

Rev. Fred Clifford Self, age 85, of Maryville, died Sunday, June 26, 2011 at the family home. Rev. Self was a member of East Maryville Baptist Church and the former pastor of several churches. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in WWII. He was preceded in death by his son and daughter, Garry Self and Margaret Ann Cooper. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Anna Mae Rogers Self; Sons and daughters-in-law, Darrell and Michele Self and Larry and Becky Self; grandchildren, Tony Cooper, April Self, Amanda Johnson, Darrell Thomas, Dana Basler, and Darren Self; 5 great grandchildren; son-in-law, Butch Cooper; sisters, Judy Payne and Calberta Best; . Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at East Maryville Baptist Church with Rev. Butch Cooper, Rev. Keith Johnson, and Rev. David Frame officiating. The family and friends will assemble at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 30, 2011 at Grandview Cemetery for Interment Services. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at East Maryville Baptist Church from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Friends may call at their convenience after 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 983-1000, www.smithmortuary.com

2011-06-26T14:49:00.002-05:00

Travis Self and Christina Massingale were married Saturday. This photo was taken from the Facebook page of Christy Self Lucas, sister to Travis Self. Our best wishes are extended to the happy couple.

EARL "TOAD" AND FANNIE SELF

2011-06-26T14:36:00.002-05:00

This photo is of Earl "Toad" and Fannie Self. It was taken several years ago and was given to my by Fannie Self. Earl Self died June 12, 2011.

PHOTO OF CHARLES LINDBERGH SELF

2011-06-26T14:27:00.003-05:00

This is a photo of Charles Lindbergh Self. His nickname was "Cotton". He was born August 27, 1928 and died from pneumonia on January 19, 1946 at the age of 17. He was the son of George Washington Self and Nelia Nichols Self. He is buried at Citico Baptist Church Cemetery, Vonore, Tennessee. Charles was a brother to Earl "Toad" Self who died June 12, 2011. The photo is courtesy of Mrs. Earl (Fannie) Self. Charles was the ninth of ten children born to George and Nelia Self. There is only one surviving child in this family. He is Fred Self, age 90, who lives in Maryville, Tennessee.

TRAVIS SELF AND CHRISTINA MASSINGALE MARRY

2011-06-25T16:17:00.004-05:00

Mr. Travis Self and Miss Christina Massingale were married today (Saturday, June 25, 2011). Our congratulations go to the happy couple. A wedding photo may be added later if I can get ahold of one.

HAPPY 65TH ANIVERSARY

2011-06-22T21:16:00.001-05:00

Happy 65th anniversary to Rev. Fred and Anna Mae Self of Maryville, TN. They celebrated on June 15, 2011.

COUSIN EARL "TOAD" SELF HAS DIED

2011-06-14T20:27:00.001-05:00

Earl W. (Toad) Self - age 85 of Lenoir City passed away Sunday, June 12, 2011 at the Loudon Healthcare Center, Loudon, TN. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Susan Dillard; parents, George and Nelia Self; brothers, Johnny, Riley, James, David and Charles; sisters, Rosie, Ruth and Stella. Survived by his wife, Fannie Self; daughters, Wanda Williams of Lenoir City and Vickie Rhea of Knoxville; son, Robert Self and wife, Teresa of Lenoir City; step children, Billy J. Brookshire and wife, Mary, Regina Ramsey and husband, Troy; several grandchildren; great grandchildren; brother, Fred Self and wife, Wanda of Maryville; several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Click Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. Click Funeral Home, Lenoir City. TN is in charge of arrangements.

IN OBSERVANCE OF MEMORIAL DAY...

2011-05-30T07:55:00.002-05:00

Let us not forget to remember our troops and those who gave their all in defense of our freedom. Pray for our troops and their families. Take a moment out of your busy day to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for this country. God bless our troops and our veterans. Say "thank you" to at least one veteran today.

CONGRATULATIONS ASHLEY MAE RODGERS

2011-05-27T15:30:00.003-05:00

Ashley Mae Rodgers graduated May 19, 2011 from Sequoyah High School, Madisonville, Tennessee. She is the daughter of Roy and Angela Self Rodgers. She is the granddaughter of Steve Self and Dorothy Harwell; great grand-daughter of Doc Self and Mary Ellen Yates Logan; great-great-granddaughter of George Washington Self. Congratulations to Ahley.

Staff Sgt. David D. Self's Funeral was Thursday

2011-05-27T12:46:00.003-05:00

Army Staff Sgt. David D. Self, who was killed May 16, 2011 ,in Afghanistan, was honored and remembered on Thursday in Pearl, Missisippi. The obituary is printed below. Links to more information and photos from the service are at the following sites: baldwinleepearl.com, clarionledger.com or WLBT.com (TV Ch. 3, then do a search for David Self for video footage).

SGT. David Dwayne Self, 29, died Monday, May 16, 2011 from wounds sustained while serving in the US Army in Afghanistan. Funeral services are scheduled for 3 PM Thursday, May 26, 2011 at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Chapel in Pearl. Visitation will be Thursday from 1 – 3 PM. Sgt. Self was a 2000 graduate of Pearl High School and was currently serving in the US Army where he had served several tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is survived by his father and step mother, Eddie F. Self and Kathleen Self of Pearl; mother, Linda Rhodes of Las Vegas, NV; sister, Kimela Shull and husband Greg of Pearl; step sisters, Lorene Thomas and husband Bill of Rogers, AR and Sherry Wilmouth and husband Russell of Pearl.

The family wishes to thank the community and everyone that has shown their support of them throughout this difficult time.

FUNERAL IS SET FOR MISSISSIPPI SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN

2011-05-24T13:53:00.002-05:00

The funeral for Army Staff Sgt. David D. Self will be Thursday, May 26 at 3 p.m. in Pearl, Mississippi. Baldwin-Lee Funeral Directors in Pearl is in charge of the arrangements. Self, age 29, was killed May 16 by a roadside bomb in Zabul province. The family will release a complete obituary after the funeral.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE IDENTIFIES ARMY CASUALTIES

2011-05-20T12:50:00.003-05:00

The Department of Defense announced today the deaths of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died May 16, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked their unit using an improvised explosive device in Zabul province, Afghanistan. Killed were: Staff Sgt. David D. Self, 29, of Pearl, Miss. He was assigned to the Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany; also, Spc. Bradley L. Melton, 29, Rolla, Mo.; Pvt. Lamarol J. Tucker, 26, of Gainesville, Fla.; and Pvt. Cheizray Pressley, 21, of North Charleston, S.C. They were assigned to the Brigade Troops Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Anchorage, Alaska.

Note: I do not know any genealogical information on Mr. Self. I will do some research to see what I can learn.

Go to www.libertyunites.tv for more information on Staff Sgt. David D. Self.

WELCOME TO THE WORLD SOPHIA GRACE FOWLER

2011-05-18T18:53:00.003-05:00

Sophia Grace Fowler was born 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 18, 2011. She weighed in at 6 lbs. 9 ounces and is 19 inches long. Sophia Grace is the daughter of Kevin and Lydia Fowler. Congratulations to the proud parents and grandparents! The pictures above are of Kevin's parents, Jim and Lovonda Fowler, with Sophia Grace and one of Lovonda Fowler and Sophia Grace.

SELF FAMILY REUNION SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 4 IS CANCELLED

2011-05-18T18:47:00.005-05:00

The annual Self Family Reunion that is usually held the first Saturday in June at the home of our cousin J.L Self has been cancelled for this year. Mrs. J.L. (Edna) Self notified me of this today and asked that I help spread the word. The reunion will most likely be held again in June, 2012. This reunion is for the descendants of William Emery and Mary Self.

APRIL "SUSAN" FARMER DILLARD OBITUARY

2011-05-09T10:13:00.001-05:00

April “Susan” Farmer Dillard - age 37 of Lenoir City, TN passed away Friday, May 6, 2011 after a five year battle with cancer. She was a 1992 graduate of Lenoir City High School. Susan graduated from Roane State Community College as a Paralegal. She was preceded in death by beloved step father, Kim Williams; grandparents, E. B. and Mary Farmer. She is survived by her husband, Brian Dillard; daughters, Ashley Johnston, Kamryn and Adisson Dillard; mother, Wanda Williams of Lenoir City; father, David Farmer and wife, Amy of Knoxville; sister, Kim Price and husband, Marc of Lenoir City; nieces, Kara Willis and Emily Price; grandparents, Louise Self of Loudon, Earl Self and wife, Fannie of Lenoir City; several aunts, uncles and cousins. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Click Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. with Rev. Scot Wells officiating. Click Funeral Home, Lenoir City, TN is in charge of arrangements. Our sympathy is extended to Susan's family.

WORTH MENTIONING...

2011-04-29T20:06:00.003-05:00

We celebrated my dad's 63rd birthday this past Saturday, April 23 with a party/ Easter get-together at his house with my brother and his family, me and my family and momma. It was a great afternoon and evening. The children hunted Easter eggs and we just laid back and rubbed our bellies after a delicious meal my little momma had prepared. (The daughters-in-law offered to help cook, but momma would not hear of it. They did bring a dish or two anyway I think.) Our friend, Michael Lemons, was also there. He just happened to luck up and come at the right time to drop off a load of barnyard fertilizer for daddy's garden. Michael was driving a 1948 Ford, one and a half-ton truck, with a dump bed on it, which is good for hauling barnyard fertilizer. That way, you do not have to shovel it. We got to talking and my daddy told me that truck had a special significance to it. He said that my granddaddy, Lawson Self, used to drive that 48 Ford truck to deliver flour for the Trigonia Mill, which was located south of Greenback, TN. Back then, it was a box truck, instead of a dump bed. Well, when I heard this, I just had to have a picture of the truck. Daddy and Michael said the truck was originally green. One of the Hammontree boys owned it later. I guess they bought it from whoever ran the mill. Later, Michael and his daddy, Gene Lemons, traded for it. I joked that both the truck and daddy are 1948 models and the truck has antique tags, so daddy must also be an antique. I thought this was worth mentioning.

STACI NICOLE SELF TO GRADUATE

2011-04-26T20:07:00.003-05:00

Staci Nicole Self will graduate in commencement excercises at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, May 7, 2011 at Tennessee Wesleyan College in Athens, TN. She is a candidate for the degrees of Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science and Bachelor of Science in Human Services. Staci is the daughter of Carl and Pam Self of Vonore. Congratulations Staci!

CPL JAMES EDWARD SELF ONLINE MEMORIAL

2011-04-12T17:43:00.003-05:00

Joy Locke, who is with the Monroe County, Tennessee genweb page, notified me today that CPL James Edward Self's online memorial is up and running. You may view the memorial at the following address: http://www.tngennet.org/monroe/memorial/WarMemorials.htm

Click on the Korean and Vietnam War link. Mr. Self's name is shown under the photo of the Vietnam memorial. Click on his name to view his individual memorial.

If you want to view the memorial and experience any difficulty, please let me know.

PHOTO OF CHARLES SELF AND SON RAYMOND SELF

2011-02-18T16:19:00.004-05:00

Charles R. Self, age 88, of Maryville, Tennessee passed away this past Tuesday. The photo above was one I took of him and his son, Raymond at the annual Self Family Reunion in Maryville, Tennessee this past September. "Charlie" was the son of John Simpson Self and Julie Annis Bowers Self. He will be buried tomorrow at Red Top Cemetery (Chilhowee Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery) in Blount County, Tennessee with full military honors. Sympathy is extended to the Self family.

CHARLES R. SELF OBITUARY

2011-02-16T22:03:00.001-05:00

Charles R. Self, age 88 of Maryville, passed away Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at Morningview Transitional Care. He was a member of Morning Star Baptist Church and a U.S. Army veteran serving during World War II in the Pacific Theater where he was decorated with a Bronze Star serving under General Douglas McArthur. Preceded in death by wife, Gussie Mae Self; daughter Joyce Self; sisters, Ruth Bryant, Bonnie Rogers, Ella McClemore, Bertha and Angie Self; brothers, Bluford, Sanford, Austin and Douglas Self. Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law Raymond and Sue Self of Sevierville, Howard and Sylvia Click of Louisville; son, James Chandler of Greenback, daughters, Lorane Potter of Blount County and Shirley Huskey of Virginia; grandchildren, Greg Self , Roxanne Shellabarger, Trista Davis, Heather Suess, Nicole Cole, Karrie Whitehead, Stacie Hill, Tony Potter and Quinton Potter. 16 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild; brother J.S. Self of Rockford; numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 7:00 p.m. Friday February 18, 2011 at Morning Star Baptist Church with Rev. Shane Bryson officiating. Family and friends will meet 3:00 p.m. Saturday at Chilhowee Primitive Baptist Cemetery (Redtop) for the interment with full military honors. The family will receive friends 5:00-7:00 p.m. Friday at Morning Star Baptist Church, Maryville, TN. McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home,865-982-6812

A STAR IS BORN !

2011-02-01T22:41:00.003-05:00

I received this photo and little note recently from cousin Duane Hill. He writes "The Self musical talent skipped me...but, hey...take heart...my granddaughter Olivia is destined for the Grand Ole Opry!!!!" I believe he is right. Olivia may be the next Dolly Parton.

WE'VE MOVED!

2011-01-22T20:41:00.002-05:00

I apologize for not posting to this site in several weeks. The holidays came and went. That was a busy time. The bad weather we have had locally depressed me somewhat (to the extent that I just did not want to do anything much)AND, we have been in the process of buying a house and MOVING. Oh my gosh! What a task! We only moved a few blocks from where we have lived for the past 12 years, but it has been a major project. We finally have changed houses. We moved in last Thursday. Our new address wil be 502 Mill Street, Madisonville. I say it "will be", because until warmer weather allows me to get a mailbox in place, I do not plan to change our mailing address at the post office. We are still living out of boxes, but at least the major work is done. I will try to get back to posting to the blog more in the next few weeks. Thanks for understanding. I have posted a picture of the new place for you to see. We like it. We have 6.7 acres, still in town, but with a country feel. Lydia is excited. Actually, we all three are. We have plans for a garden, a small orchard and whatever else Svitlana can dream up to plant and/or grow. If you are ever in the area, stop in and say hello.

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

2010-12-24T12:35:00.003-05:00

Svitlana, Lydia and I want to wish all our family and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May you enjoy this special time with your families as we celebrate Christ's birth. We love you all.

Barry

4046 INDIVIDUALS NOW IN FAMILY TREE MAKER

2010-12-10T15:29:00.002-05:00

4046 is the total number of individuals I now have in the Family Tree Maker software I use to keep up with all our genealogy. My goal is to have at least 4050 by the end of the year and hopefully another 100 by the end of 2011. This means I need to get busy and so do the rest of you. Please email or write me to share any information about our Self family, such as births, weddings, deaths,achievements, etc. I may have the names of those you submit and I may not have them. Either way, this will help me achieve the goal of increasing the number of individuals I have in the database. Thanks for your help, your continued support and interest in this blog and our family history.

HOW TO CONTACT BARRY

2010-12-10T15:21:00.003-05:00

Someone complained recently to me that they could not find any contact information for me on this blog. I apologize. I would have sworn I put that information someplace on the blog. Oh well, here it is again. To email me use: biereleyhalefh@compfxnet.com
To call me, use: 423-420-9253. To write by snail mail use: 315 Oklahoma Street, Madisonville, TN 37354. After mid- January, 2011 we will be moving to another house and the address should be: 502 Mill Street, Madisonville, TN 37354. Hopefully, we will keep the same telephone number. So, I hope this will be enough information for anyone wishing to contact me about genealogy or other mattters related to the Self Family. Happy holidays! Barry Self

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !

2010-11-24T16:08:00.004-05:00

We have so much to be thankful for. May God bless each one of you this holiday. I received the following today in an email from a friend. It is worth sharing with you.

Ah! on Thanksgiving day....
When the care-wearied man seeks his mother once more,
And the worn matron smiles where the girl smiled before.
What moistens the lips and what brightens the eye?
What calls back the past, like the rich pumpkin pie?
~John Greenleaf Whittier

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have nary a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!
~Author Unknown

VETERANS DAY, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11

2010-11-10T20:25:00.002-05:00

In honor of Veterans Day, I want to post a poem that someone gave me a few months ago. It was written by a Self cousin to his mother while he was serving in Viet Nam. I received it from a lady who's brother was a friend of this Self cousin and who served alongside him in Viet Nam. I will not disclose who wrote the poem, because I was not able to reach him to ask for his permission to publish the poem and reveal his name.

Thank you veterans for serving our country. Let's not forget those who gave their lives in defense of our freedom.

Mom, Don’t Be Blue

Mom, why are you so blue?
I’m here fighting for you,
I’ll return home someday soon
I hope and I pray.

I hope you’re proud of me.
I’ll make you, wait and see!
So dry your eyes and smile,
It’s only for a little while.

Should I never return,
please don’t be too concerned.
I’ll be waiting for you up there.
For you, mom, with a prayer.

Your loved one
…

COUSIN J.R. SELF HAS DIED

2010-11-08T21:41:00.001-05:00

Self, J.R., age 85, of Vonore, went to be with the Lord 8:05 A.M. Saturday, November 7, 2010 at U.T. Medical Center surrounded by his family. Faithful member of Citico Missionary Baptist Church for 68 years. He loved his church and his true love of singing lead to serving as the song leader/choir director for over 30 years. His father, Wash Self, was pastor at Citico many years ago and his brother, Gus, was a deacon there when he died. Volunteering for service in the U.S. Navy, he was a veteran of World War II. Worked for the Monroe Co. Hwy. Dept and T.V.A. before he retired. Survivors, wife of 59 years, Armenda King Self, Sons & daughters-in-law, Donnie & Marcia Self, Gordon & Penny Self, all of Vonore, Grandchildren, Ben, Sarah & Dustin Self, Several nieces & nephews. Preceded in death by parents, Rev. George Washington Self & Vandoria Allen Roberts Self, sisters, Gracie Emma Self, Creed Earl Kirkland, Bessie Kirkland, Easter Dupes, Darcus Roselee Self, brothers, Gus H., Roy Lee & John Reece Self. Funeral 8 P.M. Monday, Biereley-Hale Chapel, Rev. David Lane & Rev. Marvin (Bud) Millsaps officiating. Interment 11 A.M. Tuesday, Citico Cemetery,with military honors provided by V.F.W. Post #5156 & D.A.V. #93. Family will receive friends 6-8 P.M. Monday at Biereley-Hale Funeral Home, Madisonville.

COUSIN EDNA SELF MEETS BILL HASLAM

2010-10-22T21:34:00.004-05:00

Mrs. J.L. (Edna) Self recently met Bill Haslam, at the Blount County Courthouse. Mr. Haslam is running for Governor of Tennessee. He stopped in Blount County while on a bus tour around the state. The election is November 2.

OCTOBER 23 IS A RED LETTER DAY

2010-10-22T21:23:00.003-05:00

October 23 is a red letter day for our Self family. On October 23, 1851 John J. Self and Lydia Avaline Waters were married in Union County, Georgia. That's been 159 years ago. Wow! What would you get someone for their 159th wedding anniversary anyway?

PHOTO OF NETTIE BYERS BEAVERS AND WAYNE BYERS

2010-10-16T08:41:00.003-05:00

The photo above is of Nettie Byers Beavers and her nephew, Wayne Byers. Nettie is a daughter to Dovie Self Byers and Jack Gaston Byers. Nettie passed away in 2008. Wayne Byers is a son of Verlin Byers and a grandson to Dovie Self Byers. Notice the resemblance between Nettie and her mother, Dovie, who's photo is in the previous post. This photo courtesy of Verlin Byers.

VERLIN BYERS VISITS HIS MOTHER'S GRAVE

2010-10-15T13:52:00.009-05:00

I have known Verlin Byers for several years. I first became acquainted with him while researching the family tree. Several months ago, Verlin, or Junior, as he likes to be called, asked me to take him sometime to visit his mother’s grave. I told him I would be glad to take him when the weather got cooler. I know the cemetery well where his mother, Dovie Self Byers, is buried. We made the trip on Thursday, October 14, 2010. On this date, Junior and I drove up to the Giles Cemetery at Rafter. Along the route, we discussed Junior’s childhood and his family. He is 84 years old. We discussed that he is twice my age. Junior was 18 when his mother passed away at their home at Coker Creek, Tennessee.She was 42 years old (the age I am now) when she died. It has been 18 years since he last visited her grave. It was my honor to be with him on this visit. While we were there, Junior told me he wants to be buried beside his mother. To help insure that his request is honored, I put up a field stone beside the tombstone of Dovie to mark the spot. Dovie Self Byers, was the daughter of Jobe Smith Self and Anna Margaret Stephens Self. I shot a video of Junior to document his visit to the cemetery. (I will try to post it later. I tried, but it would not load, so I will have to contact support about the error.) Please note that I mis-spoke his name at the beginning of the video. I referred to him as Verlin Byers, Jr. I think his given name actually is Verlin Jack Byers. His father was Jack Gaston Byers, so this may be the reason he goes by Junior. Until the video can be added, I have placed two photos with this post. One photo is of Dovie Self Byers and the other is of Verlin Byers and I standing beside the grave of Dovie. The photo of Dovie Self Byers is courtesy of Verlin Byers.

COUSIN JAMES STRICKLAND MARRIED MELISSA FRANKLIN

2010-10-13T14:26:00.004-05:00

James Strickland and Melissa Franklin were married Saturday, October 9, 2010 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Vonore, Tennessee. James is the son of Douglas and Louise Strickland and the grandson of Faye Self Strickland and the late Delmo Strickland. Congratulations to this couple. A photo will be added as soon as possible.

MORE PICTURES FROM SELF FAMILY REUNION

2010-10-01T21:21:00.010-05:00

PICTURES FROM THE SELF REUNION

2010-09-30T07:10:00.007-05:00

The 25th annual Self Family Reunion was held on Saturday, September 25, 2010 at Pearson Springs Rotary Pavilion in Maryville, TN. Approximately 80 were in attendance. We enjoyed a delicious meal and some wonderful fellowship. I will be adding pictures from the reunion over the next few days.

ERSIE SELF COOPER ARRIVES FOR HER SURPRISE BIRTHDAY PARTY

2010-09-28T21:59:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxX4HXsM6VQ

PICTURES FROM AUNT ERSIE COOPER'S BIRTHDAY PARTY

2010-09-28T21:44:00.006-05:00

Ersie Self Cooper celebrated her 90th birthday at a surprise party hosted by her family at the Vonore (TN) Community Center on September 18. She was very surprised when she realized what was going on. Numerous family members, friends and neighbors turned out to help her celebrate. There was a huge crowd in attendance. She is shown above with a great-great niece, Lydia Self. A huge birthday cake was also enjoyed by all in attendance along with an abundance of other delicious food. The family put together a collage of pictures for everyone to reminisce over too. The next post has a link of a video that was shot by her grandson, Kevin Fowler, as she entered the community center for the party.

SELF COUSIN FOUND SHOT TO DEATH

2010-09-27T14:23:00.000-05:00

"Decatur Police, Meigs County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are investigating the murder of a 51 year old man after his body was found outside his home, just after 8 AM Thursday. Decatur Police Chief Monty Rowland said the man, identified as Roger Self, 51 of Five Point Road, Decatur, was found dead of at least one gunshot wound. Rowland said the wound does not appear to be self-inflicted. Rowland said no suspects have been identified and no motive has been released concerning the homicide, but Chief Rowland said more details would be released as the case moves forward."

This story was printed in the DAILY NEWS EXPRESS, Saturday, September 25, 2010, Vol. 8, Issue 224.

The obituary of Roger Self appears below in a separate posting.

ROGER DALE SELF OBITUARY

2010-09-26T18:43:00.001-05:00

Roger Dale Self
June 8, 1959 - September 23, 2010

Roger Dale Self, age 51, of Decatur, TN, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 23, 2010. He was a member of the Cottonport Baptist Church. He was an avid hunter. He was a U. S. Army Veteran.He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Sallie (Watts) Self. He is survived by his wife, Michelle (Lehnherr) Self, of Decatur, TN; one son, Gabriel Self of California; one daughter, Amanda Bricker of Athens, TN; three brothers and two sister-in-laws, David Ray and Debi Self of Cincinnati, OH, Robert and Nancy Self, Randy Self, all of Decatur, TN; one sister, Connie (Self) Floyd of Soddy Daisy, TN; and a very special friend and hunting buddy, Wesley West of Riceville, TN. Funeral service will be held at 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 27, 2010, in the Bowers Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Larry Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 27, 2010 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations to: The After School Bible Program, 4731 River Road, Decatur, TN 37322.

ERSIE SELF COOPER TO TURN 90...LET'S CELEBRATE!

2010-09-10T12:18:00.005-05:00

The following tribute was written by Kevin L. Fowler, a grandson to Ersie Cooper.

Ersie Cordelia Cooper was born on September 18, 1920 to parents William Emory and Mary Eveline Self. She has been an active member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church her entire life and it was there that she met a young man named Willard "Lee" Cooper. Willard was always childhood friends with Ersie's two brothers, and it was on one occasion that an approximately 12-year-old Lee was having breakfast with the Self family that he patted an approximately 9-year-old Ersie on the head and announced that he would one day marry her. After their teenager years and after Lee's four years in the Pacific theater of World War II this would soon become a reality.

While Lee was in the service, Ersie regularly wrote to him. When he came back to the states he had every intention of marrying Ersie. Lee asked Ersie's father for her hand in marriage and he replied, "Well, she is old enough to know who she wants, you're just taking my biscuit maker away from me!" To avoid time-consuming local government paperwork and fees, Lee and Ersie did what so many East Tennessee couples did at that time and got married in the state of Georgia. Their journey together began on December 21, 1946.

Ersie recounts her wedding day.

Even though the two married relatively late in life (Lee was 29 years old, Ersie was 26), Ersie and Lee had nine children, with eight surviving infancy--Shirley, Peggy, Lovonda, Ronnie, infant son Randy Lee, Darlene, Randall, Reese, and Donnie. All children currently reside in Monroe County, except for Darlene Cooper Russell who is an elected official in neighboring Loudon County.

Ersie and family were forever changed on Monday, October 25, 1982 when Lee went home to be with the Lord. He was 65 years old. Keeping him in her memory, Ersie has gone on to enjoy a total of twenty-one grandchildren and twenty great grandchildren. The Lord has continued to bless Ersie with satisfactory health, with the exception of some eye and back difficulties here in recent years. Despite these setbacks she has a sharp mind, quick wit, and a friend to everyone she meets. She is always up for a trip to Wal-Mart and even recently volunteered to board her first airplane for an adventure to Nebraska to visit some of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren for Thanksgiving.

We thank God for the nine decades that he has sovereignly granted Ersie to be in our lives and we count each day as a precious gift.

Each year during the Christmas season, the Coopers enjoy a family reunion at the Vonore Community Center where Ersie is surrounded by all of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and more gifts than she can open in a single evening. In addition to this event, this year Ersie's friends and family will also be meeting at the Vonore Community Center for a special event on September 18, 2010 at 4-6PM to celebrate her 90th birthday. All are encouraged to attend for food and fellowship. Ersie would love to see you all!

LACIE MICHELLE SELF AND BRANDON LEON DUNCAN WED

2010-09-05T19:10:00.003-05:00

Lacie Michelle Self and Brandon Leon Duncan, both of Vonore, TN were joined in holy matrimony on July 28 in a private ceremony. Parents of the couple are Carl and Pamela Self and Leon and Marcia Duncan, all of Vonore. The bride is employed with Peoples Bank of East Tennessee and the groom is employed with Carlex. The couple make their new home in Vonore. Congratulations !!!

THE REV. FRED C. SELF TURNS 85

2010-09-05T19:08:00.003-05:00

The Rev. Fred C. Self, of Maryville, TN turned 85 years old on September 4. He was born in 1925. Rev. Self celebrated his birthday with family and friends. "Congratulations cousin Fred. We love you."

25th ANNUAL SELF FAMILY REUNION IS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2010

2010-08-28T15:08:00.007-05:00

It is hard to believe August is almost gone and September is creeping up on us. This means one thing. The annual Self Family Reunion is just around the corner. Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 25. We will meet at Pearson Springs Park Pavilion in Maryville, TN. We have the pavilion reserved from 3 to 9 p.m. We will gather around 3 p.m. and eat around 4 p.m. Restrooms are on site. The park is located on Montvale Station Road, near Sandy Springs Park. Invite every other family member you see between now and then. Let's pack out the place. Bring lawn chairs since bench seating is all there is at the pavilion.
Directions: On Hwy. 411 N. in Maryville, turn at the Exxon Station onto Sandy Springs Road. Pass Foothills School, turn left onto Montvale Station Road. Go approximately 1/2 mile (turn at the fifth street on the left). The pavilion entrance is on the left, just before Sandy Springs Park. Or in Maryville take Hwy. 321 to Montvale Road and turn right onto it. Go to the light at Victory Baptist Church and turn right. Pass Garden Vale Apartments. The first road to the right is the entrance to the pavilion. This will be just after passing Sandy Springs Park on the right.

RARE PHOTO FOUND

2010-08-20T19:49:00.002-05:00

Every now and then a "gold nugget" is discovered in the world of genealogy research. And when one discovers a gold nugget it is usually unexpected and in a most unusual way. This happened to me this week. I will not go into all the details, but I discovered one of those gold nuggets a few days ago and I was not at all expecting to. It is a nice one. The photo above is of Bartley Richard Nichols (sitting) and his wife, Letty Lucinda Ledbetter Nichols (sitting), their daughter, Eliza Nichols Millsaps Vance (standing) and three of her children,(left to right) Jerry Millsaps, Dorothy Millsaps Devine and Bertha Millsaps (who only lived to be around 3 years old I was told). This photo belongs to Geneva Devine Best, daughter of Dorothy Millsaps Devine. She graciously allowed me to copy it to share with everyone on the blog.

Bartley Richard "Dick" Nichols was the son of Jerry Nichols and Evelyn Stratton Nichols. He and Lucinda had the following children: Nelia R. Nichols, wife of George Washington Self, Jerry Nichols, who married Martha Cathey, Mary Eveline Nichols, wife of William Emery Self, Eliza Nichols, who married Andy Millsaps and John Houston Vance and Wesley Nichols, who married Illa Cline.

Richard and Lucinda Nichols would have been my great-great grandparents through their daughter, Mary Eveline Nichols Self.

COUSIN LAURA SELF, SHORT-TERM MISSIONARY

2010-07-20T20:41:00.002-05:00

Cousin Laura Self, daughter of John and Angel Self, of Texas, is on the mission field. She is traveling to Damongo, Ghana, along with 11 other people from her church in Texas. There are four team leaders and 8 team members, ranging in ages 16- 18. The group left Texas on Sunday, July 18 and will return July 30 or 31."The team will be working alongside Danny Jaynes in Damongo." He is a missionary. "They will be doing VBS programs, telling stories from the Bible with puppets, distributing Bibles, showing the Jesus video and doing whatever the missionary needs help with" according to Laura's mother, Angel Self. Please pray for Laura and the entire team as they travel so far from home to do God's work. Pray for their safety and that their work will be blessed of God. Ghana is a country of 24 million people and about 100 ethnic groups.

COLEMAN FAMILY REUNION PICTURES

2010-07-20T20:15:00.010-05:00

The bi-annual Coleman Family Reunion was held Saturday, July 17, 2010 at Fort Loudoun State Park in Vonore, Tennessee. This reunion is held for the descendants of Jessie Anderson Coleman and Laura Ellen Self Coleman. Laura Self was the daughter of John Simpson Self and Mary Ann Barbara Tucker Self and the granddaughter of John and Lydia Self. The reunion was well attended and we shared a delicious lunch under the cover of the large harwood trees at the park's pavilion. Everyone seemed to have a nice time. After lunch, a few cousins broke out in song and entertained the rest of us. There were several there from out of state. The next reunion will be held in July, 2012.

GREEN BEAN FESTIVAL

2010-07-19T16:08:00.002-05:00

Green Bean Festival, Blairsville, Georgia--- July 30-31, 2010. Observe the bean harvest with an antique tractors display, a farmers market, a green bean recipe contest, a crafts fair and demonstrations, a 4-H talent show and children's activities on the town square. Call (706) 994-4837 for more information. Blairsville is Self country. John and Lydia Self were married near Blairsville, GA (Union County). Our family lived there for many years, before moving to Tennessee.

COLEMAN REUNION JULY 17 AT FORT LOUDOUN

2010-07-13T15:11:00.002-05:00

The bi-annual Coleman Family reunion will be held Saturday, July 17, 2010 at Fort Loudoun State Park in Vonore, TN. The event will begin at 12:00 p.m. (Noon). Bring a covered dish (or two) and come join us for a great afternoon. The Coleman family is part of our Self family lineage.

LIFE CAN'T GET ANY BETTER...

2010-06-29T07:44:00.002-05:00

Cousin Duane Hill sent me this pix. He comments "Life cannot get any better than this...(Ol' Gramps with Ethan & Olivia)!"

Thank you Duane for sharing this with us.

HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY STEPHEN SELF

2010-06-21T08:26:00.002-05:00

Happy 40th birthday wishes to my little brother, Stephen Self. He was born June 21, 1970 in Sweetwater, TN. HAVE A GREAT DAY STEPHEN!

HAPPY BELATED FATHER'S DAY

2010-06-21T08:24:00.002-05:00

I want to wish a Happy (Belated) Father's Day to all the fathers in the family. I was away from the computer this weekend. I hope all of you had a great day. I certainly did.

MORE PIXS FROM SELF FAMILY REUNION ON JUNE 5, 2010

2010-06-13T19:18:00.007-05:00

MORE PHOTOS FROM THE SELF REUNION LAST SATURDAY

2010-06-11T20:50:00.010-05:00

More photos will follow.

DESCENDANTS OF EMERY AND MARY SELF GATHER

2010-06-11T19:31:00.009-05:00

Saturday, June 6, 2010 marked the annual gathering of the family of Emery and Mary Self at the home of J.L. and Edna Self in Maryville, Tennessee. The reunion was well attended this year. We enjoyed a delicious lunch and some great fellowship. The weather was nice also. J.L Self commented that this was the 20th year the reunion has been held at his home. We also celebrated the 50th wedding anniversary of J.L. and Edna after lunch, complete with a beautiful cake. They were married December 23, 1959 and celebrated 50 years together last December. More photos from the reunion will follow.

SAMUEL DOUGLAS SELF, SR. OBITUARY

2010-05-30T11:54:00.004-05:00

SAMUEL DOUGLAS SELF, SR. - age 83, known by everyone as Doug, passed away Friday, May 28, 2010. Doug lived a very long and fulfilled life. He worked at the Physical Plant at the University of Tennessee. He always had a garden that he took pride in everyday. He also liked to hunt and fish. He was of the Baptist faith and loved the Lord. The thing he loved more than those things was his family. Doug always made sure they had everything they needed. You couldn't ask for a better husband, father, grandfather, or brother and he will always be remembered. He is remembered by his loving wife, of 56 years, Lennis Self; daughters, Debbie Meredith and husband, Charles; Darlene Latham and husband, Jeter; Freeda Evans and husband, Benny; son, Samuel Self, Jr. and wife, Evelyn; grandchildren, Sandra Cooper and husband, Paul; Jennifer Latham; and many other family members. We love you and miss you. Doug is preceded in death by mother and father, Harrison and Lizzie Self; sister, Blonnie Case. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 1:00 pm, at McCarty Evergreen Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Caledonia Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Paul Cooper, Paul Latham, Jeter Latham, Charles Meredith, Mike Self, and Ray Hall. Honorary pallbearer will be his great-grandson, Tanner Latham. Family will receive friends on Tuesday from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at McCarty Evergreen Funeral Home, Asheville Highway. Condolences may be offered at www.mccarty evergreen funeral home.com

MEMORIAL DAY

2010-05-29T11:47:00.003-05:00

Sacrifices have been made and are still being made by Americans so we can be free. There is no way we can repay someone for giving their precious life for our freedom. If you are a veteran,thank you. If you are not a veteran, find one today, or one day this weekend, and thank them for serving their country. May God bless America.

LYDIA SELF GRADUATES KINDERGARTEN

2010-05-14T20:42:00.002-05:00

Lydia Self, age 6, graduated Kindergarten from Madisonville Primary School on Thursday evening May 13, 2010. She is the daughter of Barry and Svitlana Self.

CLASS OF 2010

2010-05-07T15:29:00.001-05:00

Do we have any relatives graduating from high school or college this year? If so, please share this news with everyone by sending me an email with the details to
biereleyhalefh@compfxnet.com

DECORATION DAY AT MT. ZION CEMETERY

2010-05-07T15:27:00.002-05:00

Decoration Day is this Sunday at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Vonore, TN, where many Self relatives are buried. It will be at Citico Baptist next Sunday, May 16.

DARLENE RUSSELL NEW LOUDON COUNTY CLERK

2010-05-07T11:08:00.003-05:00

Our cousin, Darlene Cooper Russell, was elected the new Loudon County (TN) Clerk on Tuesday, May 4. For more information visit her website Darleneforloudon.com. There are pictures posted there and a video of a radio interview she gave on WLIL Radio following the election. Congratulations Darlene!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

2010-05-07T10:44:00.005-05:00

I want to wish all you mothers a very Happy Mothers Day, which will be this coming Sunday, May 9, 2010. I especially want to wish my mother, Wilie Self, a Happy Mothers Day. "I love you momma!" May God bless all of you.

JUST A THOUGHT...

2010-05-03T15:00:00.003-05:00

I received this in an email from a friend and like it so much, I want to share it with you.

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."

--Mark Twain

COUSIN ADAM SELF GRADUATES FROM MARINE BOOT CAMP

2010-04-28T15:34:00.003-05:00

Adam's mother, Brenda Self, sent me this picture today. I want to share it with everyone else. She writes "here's a picture from Adam's Marine boot camp graduation if you want to post an update to Self page. He graduated April 9th, and is now at Camp Geiger N.C. continuing his training. Thanks!"

Congratulations to Adam and a big "thank you" for serving his country.

Yeocomico Church- Early Church of the Self Family

2010-04-20T09:38:00.006-05:00

The following article was passed on to me by cousin David Self, of Dunnellon, Florida. David was one of the speakers this past weekend at the annual gathering of the subscribers/researchers of The Self Newsletter. The event was held this year in Georgia. I had hoped to attend, but was not able to arrange to be there. Thankfully, David has shared this information with us. It is very interesting, so I wanted to get it out to everyone else as quickly as possible. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I have a list of things I want to do, relating to genealogy. Visiting the Yeocomico Church is on that list. Hopefully, I will be able to go there within the next few years.

Yeocomico Church- Early Church of the Self Family

During the early years the Self family worshiped at the Yeocomico Church. Like most churches at the time it was part of the established Church of England headed by the Royal Family. The church is located in the Parish of Cople in Westmoreland County near 300 acres of fertile land granted to Robert Self in 1665 after he fulfilled the terms of his indentured service. Robert and his family were active and prominent members of the church for many years no doubt playing an important role in its development.

The church was named after the Yeocomico River that flows into the Potomac and is the dividing line between Westmoreland and Northumberland counties. It stands solid on high ground shaded by large Oak trees surrounded by a weathered brick wall about four feet tall. The original church was built of oak in 1655 and replaced with a brick structure in 1706 almost exactly one hundred years after the first settlement in Jamestown.

On entering the churchyard one's attention is immediately drawn to the emptiness and missing headstones in the old inner cemetery. Almost all of the headstones were destroyed by rebellious colonists during the Revolutionary War because the church was considered a symbol of England and its preachers used the pulpit to discourage rebellion against the British government. Robert Self and other family members were buried in the inner cemetery and the exact location of their graves is lost forever.

Mary Ball Washington worshiped at the Yeocomico Church and was educated there as a child. She was only three years old when her father died and thirteen when her mother died. Colonel George Eskridge was a member of the church and a close family friend when he was appointed Mary's guardian. Almost daily as a child Mary would ride her horse from the nearby Eskridge farm to attend school at the church. Growing up she must have known and been friendly with the Self family during daily happenings, church meetings and community affairs.

Mary was growing up to become a powerful and influential force for one of America's most famous families. George Washington was born on Wakefield Plantation nearby on Pope's Creek during the winter 1732. He was named George after Colonel George Eskridge because of Mary's love, respect and appreciation for her guardian and tutor.

The Yeocomico Church experienced calamitous times following the peaceful years when Mary was a child. American soldiers used the church as an encampment during the Revolutionary War and later the War of 1812. The church provided open space for encampments and an abundant water supply from the nearby river and streams. The fields were fertile and crops and livestock produced by the locals could either be purchased or confiscated to support the army. Deplorably the church communion table was used by colonial soldiers to butcher and slaughter animals letting blood and guts flow freely on the floors desecrating the sanctity of the holy place. The baptismal urn was used to water cows and horses.

Today, the church is the second oldest church in America that continues to have worship services. The church is well preserved and many of the furnishings are original. The entrance door dates back to 1655. The communion table and the baptismal urn have been restored and are used in services.

Daniel "Dan" McCarthy and the Self Family Newsletter in 2004 raised money to buy a bronze plaque mounted in a marble stone commemorating the Self family. It was placed near the inner cemetery and is there today. At the dedication ceremony attended by many Selfs and family, Dan eloquently summed up the family's American experience. You have probably read or heard it before but it is important to remember who we are as a family. Here is Dan's presentation.

Dedication of the Robert Self Memorial

Before we begin, we would like to offer our deepest thanks to Father John Wall and Charles Mottram Sanford who worked hard to help members of the Self Family Newsletters achieve the placing of this monument. We are here this day to pay homage to Robert Self, the first known Self in America, the ancestor of those of us gathered here today, and the probable ancestor of over 37,000 persons in American today. Paula-Jo Cahoon, who could not be with us this year due to commitments as
California's President of the Daughters of War of 1812, summed it all up by stating that this is probably the most important project undertaken by the Self Family Newsletter group to date. We have felt, for some time, that a monument to commemorate our ancestor would be a fitting tribute, a lasting memorial long overdue and made possible by the donations of scores of loving Self descendants, who seem to come into this world equipped with a common love of genealogical roots and family history. Eighty of Robert Self's descendants demonstrated this family love with donations ranging from $2.00 to $166.00. The outcome of this strong love is the memorial we dedicate here today.

We are looking at the stones of people buried as long ago as 350 years. Some have worn to a frazzle. Some are just a snub of stone; no visible record remains. Nevertheless, we cherish their memories and we preserve the records of their time here on Earth so that our own descendants can benefit from the wisdom that comes from understanding how and who brought us to this point in history. And, we wonder at that same strong love that pervades our historical research and pursuits. We ourselves are living testaments to the endurance of family ties down through the ages.

Our Robert Self was a planter and a farmer. We are certain he gave thanks to God every day. In the spring he would give thanks as he saw the trees bud and blossom. He gave thanks for the fertile earth as he worked it for planting. In the summer sun and rain, he would rejoice as the crops grew and matured. In the fall, he would celebrate the bounty with thanksgiving. And, as the snows covered these lands, one can only imagine the footprints in the snow as he and his family trudged their way here for services each Sabbath. Let us be reminded each season of Robert and his
family as they struggled to make a life and a heritage for us.

Our Robert Self was the ancestor of numerous descendants who served in the military bringing us freedoms we enjoy and take for granted today:
-- 2 soldiers of the French and Indian War
-- a dozen plus soldiers in the Revolutionary War
--20 or more soldiers of the War of 1812
-- 96 Union soldiers and 390 Confederate soldiers of the
Civil War
-- Plus all the soldiers of the Wars that have followed.

Yes, a man named Self [James C. Self] became the richest and most philanthropic man in the Carolinas. And another man [Carl Albert] with a Self grandmother became Vice President of the United States. But, the real pride and backbone of the Self family - yesterday and today - are the doctors, lawyers, teachers, preachers, farmers, homebuilders - yes, even log homebuilders - pioneers all - who settled throughout this country, worked hard and built families. You don't have to look back as far as 350 years to see your own direct Self ancestor and the contributions he or she made to your life.

We believe Robert Self would be amazed and filled with pride as he sees this gathering of his descendants, both by blood and marriage, who, nearly 300 years after his death, still remember him and the sacrifices he and his family made coming to this strange land.

As we note his time on earth with this stone and plaque, let it serve to remind us his legacy, his good genes, his love for life. We have so much of which to be proud.

COUSIN DARLENE RUSSELL SEEKS POLITICAL OFFICE

2010-04-16T12:34:00.003-05:00

Cousin Darlene Cooper Russell, of Loudon County, TN is running for County Clerk in the upcoming May 4th Primary. To see her website go to: www.darleneforloudon.com.
She is the daughter of the Late Willard Cooper and Ersie Self Cooper of Vonore, TN.

TAKE A LOOK AT THIS WEBSITE !

2010-04-13T12:47:00.003-05:00

The link below is for the new Tellico Plains, TN Chamber of Commerce website. Our Self roots run deep in and around the Tellico Plains area.

www.tellico-plains.com

FUND RAISER FOR THE CEMETERIES AT RAFTER, TENNESSEE

2010-04-02T20:38:00.002-05:00

Miss Mary Shaw, of Rafter, contacted me this week about a fund raiser that will be held Saturday, April 10, 2010 at the Rafter Fire Hall for the purpose of raising money for the upkeep (mowing, etc.) of the four cemeteries at Rafter. There will be a potluck meal served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost will be $7.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. The cemeteries at Rafter are the Giles-Roberts Cemetery, where our ancestor John J. Self is buried, among many other Self relatives, the Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery, the Epworth Cemetery and the Rafter Friends Church Cemetery. It takes a lot of money to keep up these grounds. I told her I would mail a check even if I could not attend the "feeding". If anyone else would like to help, please send your donation to: Mary Shaw, 256 Shaw Mountain Road, Tellico Plains, TN 37385. They will surely appreciate it. My check is in the mail Mary.

OLD PHOTO FROM COUSIN RANDALL SELF

2010-04-02T20:33:00.004-05:00

Following is list of people in the picture: Howard Whitehead, Douglas Self, "Pappy" Walt Whitehead, Florence Whitehead, Mina W.Self, Molly Whitehead.Children: Lewis Whitehead, B.C. Whitehead, Dexter Self, Eugene Self, Lona Whitehead. Picture compliments of Cousin Randall Self, son of Eugene Self and grandson of Douglas Self and Mina W. Self.

HAPPY EASTER

2010-04-02T15:10:00.002-05:00

From our home to yours, Svitlana, Lydia and I wish everyone a very Happy Easter. May God bless you all. HE IS RISEN!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLA MILLER

2010-03-31T16:32:00.002-05:00

Miss Ella Miller, of Madisonville, TN, turned 94 today. I want to wish her a big Happy Birthday. "Happy Birthday young lady!"

COPY OF FLYER THAT WAS DISTRIBUTED AT THE JOHN SELF MEMORIAL SERVICE

2010-03-29T16:26:00.001-05:00

MEMORIAL SERVICE COMMEMORATING THE 100th ANNIVERSARY
OF THE DEATH OF JOHN J. SELF
Giles-Roberts Cemetery, Rafter, Tennessee
Saturday, March, 13, 2010
11:00 A.M.

Self relatives buried at the Giles-Roberts Cemetery, Tellico Plains, TN:

John J. Self, born circa 1825, died March 5, 1910. He was about 85 when he died at home at Rafter, TN.

Lydia Avaline Waters Self, born circa 1836, died May 12, 1915; wife of John J. Self. Lydia's father may also be buried in this cemetery. Lydia was about 79 when she died. Her death record states she was “about 90” and that she is buried at Macedonia Cemetery. It is believed this was an error on the record. John and Lydia had 11 children; 5 girls and 6 boys. 2 of their sons were preachers; Cicero (C.C.) and John Simpson Self. All but one of their children are buried in Monroe County, TN. One daughter, Sarah Louisa Hartness, is buried in Zion, IL. She married William Harvey Hartness.
Other relatives buried here include: (shown by order of death)

Joseph M. Self, died 12-20-1886; no date of birth is shown on stone. ‘Gone But Not Forgotten”. It is not known for certain how he is related to our family. I have a theory, but it is not yet proven. He may be a brother to our John J. Self. His name may have been Joseph MARION Self. The late Lila Hunt said Marion Self was a brother to John J. Self and he was the father of Sylvania Self Veal. She also said she thought he was buried in Monroe County, possibly at the Giles Cemetery. Edith Young told me Henry Veal, son of Sylvania Self Veal, always referred to her father as “Cousin Mark” Self. Some researchers believe Sylvania’s father was named Job Marion Self.

Lawson L. Self, born September 14, 1886, died March 16, 1910. He was 23 when he died from fever; son of Martha Lavada (Vade) Self Tucker. Lawson had a twin brother, William Floyd Self, who is buried at Cane Creek Cemetery, near Tellico Plains. Lawson died 11 days after his grandfather, John J. Self, died.

Tommy L. Self, born Nov. 1909, died March 23, 1911; son of Marcus and Mattie Self; Tommy is believed to be buried here. His grave may be the one that has a broken marker. Several years ago, this marker appeared to have some initials and “Self” engraved on it. It is now in too poor condition to read. Lamarcus (Marcus) Self was a son to John and Lydia Self.

Inez Self, born May 13, 1910, died Nov. 15, 1911; daughter of Marcus and Mattie Self; Inez is believed to be buried here, possibly near her brother, Tommy L. Self.

Jobe S. Self (Jr.), born 2-10-1894, died 3-3-1912 at age 17 years from pneumonia; son of Jobe S. Self and Anna Margaret Self.

Ora Tucker, born July 14, 1904, died Nov. 9, 1912; she was 8 years old. She was a daughter of Martha Lavada Self Tucker and Rev. Elisha Tucker. She died from asthma. She was a granddaughter to John and Lydia Self.

J.L. Miller, born 2-27-1895, died 8-11-1916; age 21; buried to the right of Wm. Thomas Miller, his father. His name was Joseph L. Miller. He is a grandson to John J. and Lydia Self. (Masonic emblem or other emblem is engraved on the stone).

Travis Elmer Self, born March 11, 1917, (stone reads 1918) died May 12th or 17, 1922. He was 5 years old; son of William Floyd and Mary Mae Bryson Self. William Floyd Self was a son to Martha Lavada Self Tucker, who was a daughter to John and Lydia Self.

Martha Lavada (Vade) Self Tucker, born Feb. 20, 1861, died Nov. 18, 1922; she was 61. She was a daughter to John and Lydia Self; wife of Rev. Elisha Tucker. “She has gone to her home in heaven and all her afflictions are o’er” is engraved on her stone.

Rheulla Tucker, born May 6, 1923, died July 7, 1924. She was 14 months old; daughter of James Willis Tucker and Lou Shaw Tucker. Willis was a son of Martha Lavada Self Tucker. Several Shaw family members are buried near Rheulla’s grave. They are probably relatives of Louie (Lou) Shaw Tucker.

Emma Pauline Byers, born 1927, died 1928, is possibly a daughter to Dovie Self Byers.

Oscar Tucker, born 7-9-1891, died 5-30-1930, at age 38; son of Martha Lavada (Vade) Self Tucker and E.G. Tucker. Oscar’s son-in-law, Lester W. Freeman, born 3-27-1911, died 2-14-1977, at age 65, is buried in Giles Cem. too. He married Alma “Morer” Tucker, born 4-24-1919. (It is unclear if she is still living. No death date is on the stone and she would be 90 years old if she is living.)

Angress Kimbrell, died Dec. 13, 1932. Funeral home records show he died in Dec. 13, 1931. His birth date is not known. He was the husband of Nettie Self, who was a daughter of Jobe Smith Self and Anna Margaret Stephens Self. Nettie later married John Yates and is buried by him at Lakeside Cemetery, Vonore, TN.

J .R. Sherman Self, born March 19, 1865, died July 26, 1934. He was 69; son of John and Lydia Self. It is believed that he may be buried at the foot of his father’s grave.

Dovie Self Byers, born June 6, 1901, died February 17, 1944. She was 42. She was a
daughter of Jobe Smith Self and Anna Margaret Stephens Self; wife of Jack Gaston Byers. According to Dillard Self, Dovie Byers taught his father, William Floyd Self, how to play the banjo.

George W. Miller, born 8-7-1895, died 6-29-1944, age 48; son of Nancy Self Miller and William Thomas Miller. He is buried on the front side of the cemetery, away from the rest of the family.
Census records show he was born in 1897.

Rev. Elisha G. Tucker, born Sept. 28, 1870, ( per census records) died March 30, 1946; husband of Martha Lavada (Vade) Self, who was a daughter of John and Lydia Self. His stone indicates he was born in 1868. He was approximately 75 when he died.

Nancy Ann Self Miller, born May 6, 1863, died May 25, 1952. She was 89. She was a daughter of John and Lydia Self; wife of William Thomas Miller. He is buried to her left.

Vernon Oscar Byers, born October 12, 1925, died May 9, 1956. He was 30 years old. He was the son of Dovie Self Byers and Jack Gaston Byers. Jack is buried at Beaty’s Chapel Cemetery, Tellico Plains, TN.

John B. Miller, born 5-13-1892, died 12-31-1977, age 85; son of Nancy Self Miller and William Thomas Miller. (He appears to be the last Self relative to be buried in this cemetery.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sylvania Self Veal, and her husband, D.M. Veal, Jr. are buried at the Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery, about 1/2 a mile from Giles Cemetery, (turn left at the fire hall). Sylvania was related to John J. Self. She may have been his niece. Sylvania was the mother of Henry Burns Veal, a well known Madisonville businessman and a former state representative for Tennessee, 66th General Assembly. His wife was Cora Tallent Veal.

D.M. Veal, Sr. born 9-11-1835, died 3-12-1922, at age 86 years and his wife, Lucinda (Lucie) Veal, born 6-4-1838, died 2-12-1911, at age 72 are buried in Giles- Roberts Cemetery. They are the parents of D.M. Veal, Jr., husband of Sylvania Self Veal. D.M. Veal, Sr. had a general store at Rafter for many years.

Nancy Veal, born 2-9-188___, died 7-12-____, age not determined, is buried about 20 feet up the hill from D.M. and Lucie Veal. The stone is in poor condition, but you can make out “bornd” and “DC” for deceased. Her relationship to D.M. Veal is not clear.

Several other Self relatives are buried at Hardshell House of Prayer Cemetery, located on the Rafter Road. Some of the Self family lived over the ridge from Rafter, at Turkey Creek, during the early 1900's. Many of them attended church at Miller's Chapel Baptist Church. Mark Self and his family were attending church there in 1919. Cicero Self once lived at Turkey Creek. It is located east of the Giles-Roberts Cemetery. You travel across Shaw Mountain Road from Rafter to get there. The first land Cicero Self owned in Monroe County, TN was located at Turkey Creek. He may have been pastor Mt. Isabella Baptist Church, located along the Rafter Road. It was a branch off the Miller’s Chapel Baptist Church.(We passed Mt. Isabella on the right on our way here today.) Some of the Plaster family is buried at Mt. Isabella. The Plaster family were relatives of Lillie Plaster Self, wife of J.R. Sherman Self.

Our Self family has a lot of history in the Giles-Roberts Cemetery and the entire community at Rafter, Tennessee. We have at least 25 relatives buried in this one cemetery. There are probably more.

Note: Giles- Robert Cemetery is a very old cemetery. The earliest date of death found engraved on a monument is September 4, 1864, for G.J. Roberts, born 6-29-1837 (age 27 years). There are probably older graves than this located in the cemetery. This was 147 years ago, so the cemetery was likely started around 150 years ago if not longer.

NOTES FROM THE JOHN SELF MEMORIAL SERVICE MARCH 13, 2010

2010-03-29T16:21:00.004-05:00

(These are the notes I used when I spoke to those who gathered at Macedonia Baptist Church for the memorial service for John J. Self.)

Good morning and welcome to Rafter, Tennessee. How many of you are here for the very first time? Rafter is a unique and beautiful place. I remember the first time I came up here. It was back around 1989 I think. I was looking for ancestors of course. I came to all three cemeteries up here, looking for Self family graves. And I fell in love with this place. I guess it had something to do with the fact that I knew our ancestors once lived here and enjoyed all the beauty of these valleys and hills at one time. Our roots run deep here in this remote Monroe County community and I always enjoy coming here, even if the weather is not always pleasant. I was up here a week ago and there was about 2-3 inches of snow on the ground. So, we cannot complain too much about a little bad weather today. I want to thank Craig Stewart and Macedonia Baptist Church for allowing us to use their facilities. We appreciate them.

Relatives, friends and guests, thank you for coming today to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of our ancestor, John J. Self on March 5, 1910. He was my 3rd- great- grandfather. We have one or two great-grandchildren of John’s with us today. There is at least the 7th generation (from John) here today too. I appreciate all of you being here. It shows your interest in your heritage and what a fine heritage we do have as members of the Self family.
Figuratively speaking, it was quite a long journey from the mountains of north Georgia to the mountains of east Tennessee. John Self's journey ended in this cemetery after 85 years of life. There was a lot of adventure along the way. There is an indication that he served for the Confederacy in the Civil War. However, I have not been able to prove his service. Lydia, his wife, filed for a widow’s pension, but was denied because she could not provide documents showing that he served. She stated that he had lost his papers. John and Lydia were married October 23, 1851 in Union County, GA (near Blairsville). They raised a large family. They had 11 children and 93 grandchildren. They have hundreds of descendants living today. There are at least 3500 if I have my information correct, and possibly more. I have 4020 individuals named in my Family Tree. Isn't that amazing? There are 1436 marriages documented too. It shows the average lifespan of 57 years and 5 months, for those whose birth and death dates are recorded there. But John and Lydia lived much longer than 57 years. John is believed to have been born in North Carolina and grew up in Georgia. His family lived in Union and Lumpkin counties in Georgia for many years. Around 1886, John moved to Monroe County, TN, apparently coming here at the suggestion of other relatives who were already in Monroe County. Amos Self lived in Monroe County in 1880. He was a relative. Amos and his family are buried in Knoxville. It was here, in these mountains of Appalachia, that John spent the remainder of his life. He died at his home at Rafter on March 5, 1910, according to Lydia‘s widow’s pension application. Death records found at the Monroe County Courthouse state that he died March 6. I had the 5th of March put on the monument we are dedicating today, since this is the date Lydia officially gave. He lived not far from where we are gathered today, although the exact location of where he lived has not been determined. He apparently never owned any land in Monroe County. No deeds or tax records can be found indicating that he owned any real estate in Monroe County or in Georgia before he moved to Tennessee. Apparently, the only piece of property he could ever claim as his very own is the small plot in Giles Cemetery, where his body has rested for the last 100 years. At least 25 Self family members are buried here with him. There are likely more we do not have a record of.

Only one picture of John and Lydia Self exists as far as I can determine. I have a copy of it. John was a tall slender man. Lydia was tall and slender as well. Only bits and pieces about them have turned up in my nearly 25 years of researching the family tree. They did not leave a lot behind to help us know them better. Lydia was a midwife in these mountains. John was likely a farmer, possibly a sharecropper. They probably had a rough life. Raising all those children off the land could not have been easy. We owe them a lot of gratitude, because each of us came from them. Their union resulted in us being who we are today. I am thankful I was born into the Self family as I am sure all of you are.

I wanted to come here today, to honor these two people, who, obviously, none of us ever really knew personally, and to commemorate the 100th anniversary of grandpa Self's death. 100 years is a long time to be dead. It is a long time to live for those who are so fortunate, but it is a long time to be dead. So much has happened in the last 100 years. William Howard Taft was President when John Self died. President Taft served from 1909 to 1913. Think for a moment what these mountains might have looked like 100 years ago. There were a lot fewer graves here then. There was no fire halI or community center. I am sure the burial of our ancestor was quite simple. He was likely brought here in a horse drawn wagon. His casket was probably homemade of pine or some other rough cut lumber. The grave would have been hand dug and hand filled. No vault would have been used. There is a new trend in the funeral and burial industry called “Green Burials“. You may have heard of this simple burial practice. No embalming is done; a plain wooden casket is used, and there is no vault used. The grave is hand dug and filled. The grave is then marked with a natural stone. No elaborate monuments are placed at the gravesite. People in these mountains were doing “green burials” long before it was done with the intention of being environmentally friendly. I imagine the whole community turned out for John Self‘s funeral, because he was an elder of the community. As far as I can determine, he had no obituary published in the newspaper. His wife, Lydia, died five years later. She had no obituary either. They were simple people… simple and humble in life and in death.

I am glad all of you wanted to join me today for this historic occasion for our family. I wish all the 3500 plus Self kinfolks were here with us. It would be a site to see. I invited a few of the oldest relatives, but they were not feeling up to attending. Wesley Dillard Self turned 90 this year and Dillard Glen Self turned 90 also. They both live in Tellico Plains. They are great- grandsons to John and Lydia Self.

Today, we will unveil a small monument to honor the lives of John and Lydia Self. Their graves are not marked with tombstones. To be honest, we do not know the exact plots they are buried in, but thanks to the late Lila Self Hunt, we know they are buried in this cemetery (Giles –Roberts), and we believe they are buried near their son, J.R. Sherman Self. So, the monument has been placed near his monument. I had the privilege of knowing J.R. Sherman Self's son, Van Larry Self, a few years before he died. J.L. Self knew him too. Van lived in Mississippi at the time of his death, but he grew up here in Monroe County. He lived to be 96. He shared a lot of family stories with me.

I am going to ask Gene Self, the oldest family member here today, and Lydia Self, the youngest, to come forward and help with the unveiling of the monument. We will then take a few minutes to let everyone look it over and take a tour of the rest of the cemetery to visit the graves of other relatives we have buried here. There are orange flags placed at significant graves to help you locate them. Thank you again for attending today. I hope you have enjoyed visiting this sacred place. I have been here many times, and I always feel that it is a special place to visit. We have a lot of history here. The Rafter Community is a place which holds a lot of history for the Self family.

Those of you who wish may join us for lunch at the Nut-N-Fancy Restaurant in Tellico Plains after we finish here. I can give you directions to the restaurant if you do not know where it is located. It is on the left on the Cherohala Skyway just before you reach Hwy. 68, as you go out of Tellico Plains. I have copies of their menu if anyone would care to take a look at those. They are expecting us for lunch and we will be ordering off the menu.

MARIANNE McLEMORE OBITUARY

2010-03-23T20:19:00.000-05:00

Marianne McLemore, age 59 of Maryville, passed away Tuesday March 23, 2010 at Blount Memorial Hospital. She was a wonderful wife and mother, and she had a heart of gold. She will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her. Preceded in death by husband, Edward McLemore; brother in law, Jimmy McLemore, Danny McLemore; brother in law, Gunter Kessel; parents, Gerhard and Else Fiebig. She is survived by daughter and son in law, Susan and Brian Negele; fiancée, Lewis O’Gorman; brother and sister in law, Harold and Barbara McLemore; sister, Irmgard Kessel; sisters in law, Delores Webb, Marie McLemore, Agnes, Nadine; several nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be held 7:00 PM Thursday March 25, 2010 at Miller Funeral Home. Interment service will be held 11:00 AM Friday at Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Thursday at Miller Funeral Home, Maryville. (865)982-6041 www.millerfuneralhome.org

COUSIN TO BE A MARINE

2010-03-23T20:15:00.002-05:00

Cousin Adam Self, son of Jeff and Brenda Self, of Maryville, TN will graduate on April 9 at Parris Island, SC and become a Marine. His initial plans are to serve one four year tour of duty, according to his mom. Adam left for boot camp on January 11. Keep him in your prayers. Congratulations to Adam for serving our country.

MORE PHOTOS FROM THE MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR JOHN J.SELF

2010-03-20T15:35:00.008-05:00

Here's a few more photos from the memorial service and luncheon that was held last Saturday for our ancestor, John J. Self, who died March 5, 1910.

MORE PHOTOS FROM THE MEMORIAL SERVICE LAST SATURDAY

2010-03-20T15:28:00.005-05:00

PHOTOS FROM JOHN J. SELF MEMORIAL SERVICE

2010-03-19T20:50:00.019-05:00

These are some photos from the memorial service we had last Saturday (March 13) for John J. Self at Rafter, TN. I loaded them backwards by mistake. The first one should be last and the last one should be first. A few more will be added later.

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR JOHN J. SELF HELD LAST SATURDAY

2010-03-15T08:52:00.004-05:00

Sixteen direct descendants of John J. Self and other family members attended a memorial service commemorating the 100th anniversary of his death on Saturday, March 13. The service was held at 11:00 a.m. at the Macedonia Baptist Church Fellowship Hall at Rafter, near Tellico Plains, TN. The service had been planned to be held outdoors at the cemetery, but due to the cold, rainy weather, the service was moved to the church. A total of 25 attended the service, which concluded with the unveiling of a granite monument at Giles-Roberts Cemetery, where John Self and his wife, Lydia Avaline Self, are buried. Eugene Self, the oldest descendant in attendance and Lydia Self, the youngest descendant in attendance, unveiled the monument. Eugene Self, age 78, is a great-great-grandson to John and Lydia Self. Lydia Self, age 6, who is named after John's wife, is a 4th great grandchild to them. John J. Self died at his home at Rafter on March 5, 1910.

Several who attended shared lunch together at the Nut-N-Fancy Restaurant in Tellico Plains after the memorial service. The photo above shows the granite monument that was placed in the cemetery. Other photos from the memorial service will be added to the blog in the near future.

COUSIN RANDALL SELF AND HIS BRIDE INGRID

2010-03-15T08:42:00.003-05:00

Cousin Randall Self, of Brazil, recently sent me a picture of himself and his bride, Ingrid. It was taken on their wedding day. They were married in Brazil and celebrated their second anniversary last month. Randall is the son of Eugene and Maysel Self of Maryville, TN.

MEMORIAL SERVICE SATURDAY MARCH 13

2010-03-12T10:26:00.004-05:00

The memorial service for John J. Self and Lydia A. Self will be held as planned on Saturday, March 13. We will meet at Giles-Roberts Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. at Rafter. Those of you who will be going, and want to, may meet me at Biereley-Hale Funeral Home, in Madisonville, by 10 a.m. or at the Hardees in Tellico Plains by 10:30 a.m. to follow us up to the cemetery. Restroom facilities are supposed to be open, thanks to the fire department. Also, I have made arrangements this morning to have the Macedonia Baptist Church fellowship hall (basement) open for us to use if the rain is heavy. The church is located about 300 yards from the cemetery. We will have the service there if the weather is too bad for us to meet at the cemetery. Then, those who wish may go up to the cemetery to see the monument and other family graves. Personally, I am going to pray that this bad weather is out of here before tomorrow morning.

Svitlana and I went up there yesterday and put up a 10 x 20 tarp in case it is raining. They are calling for 65 mile per hour winds in the mountains tonight, so I hope the tarp will still be there tomorrow morning. It is supposed to be 35-40 degrees Saturday morning, so please dress warmly. Hope to see you at Rafter Saturday morning.

100 YEARS IS A LONG TIME TO BE DEAD

2010-03-06T20:15:00.002-05:00

Use your imagination briefly and think back with me to March, 1910. Let’s place ourselves at a small, mountain cemetery in Appalachia 100 years ago. We are there for a funeral. We see the horse-drawn wagon coming up the hill, bearing the simple, wooden casket. The family members are walking behind the wagon, followed by friends and neighbors. A few of them are dressed in black. Others are in their Sunday go-to meetin’- clothes. It is a beautiful day. It is an ugly day. The patriarch of the Self family has died. He was 85. His widow and daughters are sobbing softly. A new, hand-dug grave waits nearby. The minster, dressed in overalls and a black coat, holds his Bible near his chest. He is ready to offer a few words of comfort to the family. Six men unload the casket from the back of the wagon and carry it to the gravesite. Someone faints, as the casket is placed over the grave. Everyone gathers in closer for a look. One of the daughters is overcome with grief. A few of the men-folk are standing off in the distance, in the shade of the nearby trees. The minister reads from the Bible and offers a prayer. The casket is lowered slowly into the grave with ropes. The dirt is heaped up high all around the grave. (It had to be six feet deep back then, you know.) The pallbearers start to shovel in the dirt. At last, John J. Self can claim a piece of Monroe County real estate as his very own. It is a small piece, but it is his and it shall forever more be his, here in this peaceful spot of the Appalachian Mountains called Giles Cemetery, at Rafter, TN.

Friday, March 5, marked the 100th anniversary of the death of our ancestor, John J. Self. On Saturday, March 13, 2010, at 11:00 a.m., several of his descendants will gather at Giles Cemetery, at Rafter, in Monroe County, TN , to dedicate a monument to the memory of John and his wife, Lydia Self. We want to commemorate this historic day in a special way. Everyone who wishes to attend will be welcome. More information is available on this blog. Please see previous posts concerning this event. Directions to the cemetery are included in the previous post. I look forward to seeing many of you there.

THE BLIND GIRL

2010-03-03T11:40:00.003-05:00

There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, 'If I could only see the world, I will marry you.' One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend. He asked her,'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?' The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The
sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him. Her boyfriend left very sad and days later wrote a note to her saying: 'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine.'

This is how the human brain often works when our status changes. Only a very few remember what life was like before, and who was always by their side in the most painful situations. Life is a gift. Today, before you say an unkind word, think of someone who can't speak. Before you complain about the taste of your food, think of someone who has nothing to eat. Before you complain about your husband or wife, think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion. Today, before you complain about life, think of someone who went too early to heaven. Before whining about the distance you drive, think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet. And when you are tired and complain about your job, think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job. And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down, put a smile on your face and think: you're alive and still around.

A friend of mine sent this to me in an email. It does not have anything to do with genealogy, but I thought it was so good, that I should share it with everyone else.

HAPPY 87TH BIRTHDAY TO CARROLL TUCKER

2010-02-21T09:09:00.002-05:00

Cousin Carroll Tucker, of Tellico Plains, TN will celebrate his 87th birthday, Monday February 22. Mr. Tucker was born February 22, 1923, son of the late Charles Jobe and Grace Hollingshead Tucker. He is a great grandson to the late John J. Self. He is a grandson to the late Martha Lavada Self Tucker and Rev. Elisha Tucker. Mr. Tucker lost his wife of 58 years, Prudie Tucker, on February 6 of this year. I had the honor of directing her funeral. The picture above was taken of Mr. Tucker and I at his home following the funeral. Happy 87th birthday Mr. Tucker!

JUST A REMINDER...

2010-02-20T20:26:00.002-05:00

This is just a reminder for those who plan to attend the memorial service to honor John J. Self on Saturday, March 13 in Tellico Plains. Please call or email me (if you haven't already) if you plan on attending. I have heard from four or five who plan to attend. If you are not familiar with what this is going to be, please see the post I placed on this site on February 2. It explains everything.

Ph. 423-420-9253 or email biereleyhalefh@compfxnet.com