Reprinted from the Northern Texan:
Burrell P. Smith died of hemorrage of the lungs on the 14th day of August 1859, at his residence in the town of Sherman, Grayson Co., Texas. His death was sudden and unexpected to his relations and friends. He leaves a bereaved mother, wife and children. He was born October 25, 1823, in Wilson Co., Tenn. He studied the profession of law in Murfreesboro, in said State, was admitted to the bar, and in 1845, he emigrated to Texas and located in the town of Clarksville, Red River County, and commenced the practice of law. In 1846, when a call was made for volunteers to aid in the struggle with Mexico, he raised a company, was elected its captain, and with it, marched to the Rio Grande, participated in many of the stirring and warlike scenes along the line of the ememies' country. In 1849, he was elected by the voters of Red River Co. to represent them in the lower branch of the State Legislature. He served his term out and was a working energetic and faithful member. In 1851, he removed with his family to this place, and for many years actively and successfully devoted his time and talents to the practice of law.