(This article is from the obituary collection of Elaine Turk, fellow Means-McKenzie researcher. It probably appeared in the "Barnesville Gazette," 1915.)

A Tribune to the Memory of Mrs. Jane Elliott

Mrs. Jane Elliott was born in Upson County, Ga., on June 26, 1829. She became the wife of Stephen Elliott on March 24, 1861. Her home from that time was in Pike County, until she came to Barnesville in 1866 after the death of her husband.

She was the mother of four children, two of whom died in infancy. The daughter, Mrs. Permelia Wilson, died several years ago as did also her step-daughter, Mrs. Mary J. Harris. Her son, Mr. M. M. Elliott, survives her.

These facts and dates cover the events of her eighty-six years but the record of her long, useful life deserves more than this condensed notice.

Mrs. Elliott was a good woman. She joined the Methodist church early in life and illustrated a practical religion day by day. Before she became enfeebled by the natural weakness of advancing years, she was regular in her attendance at church and often her heart became full to overflowing under the influence of the spirit.

She was the last surviving member of a large family of brothers and sisters, a family remarkable for long life and consistent purpose.

Her father was James Means, of Upson County, who married Mary A. McKenzie. This couple lived to old age in honor and usefulness. Nine children came to them, one son died in young manhood, but four sons and four daughters lived to rear large families and die honored and respected in the communities where they lived.

James Means, the father of this family accumulated a large estate. Before his death he divided it among his children, the only cost of the division being five dollars paid to an auctioneer. It was a matter of pride in this family that there was never a member addicted to the use of intoxicants, and also that there had never been any unharmonious relations among them. Their manner in the order of their ages were Mrs. Eleanor Smith, John N (or H) Means, Mrs. Sarah Hickson, Dr. M. H. Means, James A. Means, Mrs. Mary P. Willis, William Means, and Mrs. Jane Elliott. Each of this group lived far beyond the three score years and ten and left sons and daughters who continue to illustrate in their lives the principles of upright living and honest dealings practiced by their parents.

Upson, Pike, Monroe, and Houston counties, as well as other places, have felt the influence for good of this family.

Mrs. Elliott was a loyal friend, a good neighbor, a loving mother, and a devoted sister. She served well her day and generation; she has gone to her reward.

(The above article was written by Mrs. A. M. Lambdin, who later became editor of "History of Lamar County.")