12 Jun 1888, p 3 -
After more than a year's illness of organic valvular disease of the heart, Mr. George W. James departed this life at his home at Crab Orchard, Friday, at noon, aged 63 years. Born in Pulaski county, he began life as a laborer at 25 cents a day, but by indomitable energy and fine business tact he soon began to shift for himself and to accumulate money, until at his death his estate is estimated at $50,000 to $75,000. He married Miss Bobbitt, a sister of Hon. Fontaine Fox Bobbitt, and for many years they lived at Crab Orchard, where Mr. James engaged in the mercantile and other businesses. His wife preceded him to the grave a year or more ago, and it is probable that grief over her death hastened his own demise. He was a consistent member of the Baptist Church and a most useful man in his community, being ever ready to assist those that he thought were honestly striving to better their condition. Four children survive him and the public joins in lamenting his loss, which is its as well as theirs. The funeral discourse was preached by Rev. J. N. Bowling at the Baptist church Saturday afternoon, to a large audience of sympathizing friends, who afterwards followed the remains to their last resting place on Cemetery Hill.
5 Mar 1889, p 3 -
Considering the weather the sale of G. W. James' effects at Crab Orchard was well attended. Good prices were realized for the personal property and the stock brought extra good prices. The farm of 100 acres including the handsome brick dwelling was bought by J. W. James at $66 per acre; the brick store-room in which Mr. James did business was also bought by Mr. J. W. James for $1,275 and half interest in the hotel on Stanford street was sold to George Lee James for $850.
