A second James Lessly also appears in the index with a birthdate of 10 Sep, 1952 and died 11 Aug, 1996. Last residence was Edmond, Oklahoma 73034. Social Security number was 442-54-8515. I feel this must be a relative due to both the spelling of the last name and the location in Oklahoma, however I have no idea how he fits in. My best guess would be that this is the son of James Ernest, Jr - perhaps James Ernest Lessly, III? Parents: James Ernest Lessly , Sr and Carrie Excelle Oliphant.

Spouse: Orpha Marie Howell. Children were: Carrie Ellen Lessly, James E. Lessly.

Spouse: Evelyn O. Allen.

Spouse: Edward Wenzlaff , Jr.

Spouse: Frew.

Spouse: Polly Zimmerman. Children were: Judith Lessly, Abigale Lessly, Mary M. Lessly, James Elkins Lessly, Almeda Lessly, Rebecca Lessly, Andrew Lessly, Almira Lessly, John M. Lessly.

John E. Leslie aged 27 years died by his own hands. He blew out his brains with a shotgun. The official obituary stated that "No reason can be assigned by relatives for the rash act, other than ill health and despondency." However several family members have stated that John was in love with a woman of whom his mother did not approve and this was the reason for his suicide. The inscription on John's tombstone reads "Tho lost to sight to memory dear." Parents: John Harris Lessly and Mary James Davis.

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In the 1850 census for Polk County, MO, John appears in as a child in his father's household. His age is listed as 6 and his place of birth as Missouri.

In the printed account of the 1860 census for Polk County, MO, John appears as a minor in his father's household. His age is listed as 16 and his place of birth as Missouri.

In the 1870 census for Randolph County, MO, John appears as a member of his father's household. His age is listed as 25, his occupation as farmer, and his place of birth as Missouri.

John appears in the 1880 census for Grayson Co., TX in District 16, Precinct 8, page 391 D. (NA film # T9-1307). His name appears as "J. H. Leslie". His age is listed as 36, his place of birth as Missouri, and his occupation as Farmer. His father's birthplace is listed as Virginia and his mother's as Kentucky. Also appearing in the household are his wife, Mary J., and children Daisey, Ellen, Emma, Florence and John.

The information from all census records confirm family information on John's birthdate and place of birth.
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John's children Lula and John Embry were twins. John's children Cora and Carl were twins.
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A Mrs. John Harris Lessley applied for a Confederate Pension. The pension number was 42626 and the County was Grayson, TX. John's widow states that John served in the Confederate Army from August 1862 to the close of the war. She also states that John served in Company G, 11th Regiment, Missouri Infantry.

Records from the War Department Adjutant General's Office were used in the Confederate Pension application of John's widow. The letter states
"The records show that J. H. Lessley, not borne as John H. Lessley, Pvt. Company G, 11 Missouri Inf. C.S.A. (Confederate States Army) enlisted August 10, 1962 at Camp Cooper, Arkansas, and on muster roll for Jan. & Feb. 1864, (last on file) is shown present. His name appears on a List of Killed, wounded or missing of 4th Brigade Missouri Vols. at the battle of Helena, Ark, (July 4, 1863). List dated Camp Bayou Matoe, July 28, 1863, on which he is shown: Wounded severly. His name appears on a Roll of Prisoners of War, as Corp. Co. G, 11 Reg't. Mo. Vol. Inf. C.S.A., commanded by Lt. T.W. Simpson, surrendered at New Orleans, La., by General E.K. Smith, C.S.A. to Maj. Gen. E.R.S. Canby, U.S.A. May 26, 1865, and paroled at Alexandria, La. June 7, 1865."

A second letter states
"The records show that one John L. Lessley, (not borne as J. H. Laslie), Pvt. Co. G, 11th Regt. Missouri Inf., formerly known as Hunter's and the 8th, Reg't., Mo. Inf. C.S.A., enlisted Aug. 10th, 1862 at Camp Cooper, Arkansas, and on muster roll for Jan. & Feb. 1864 (last on file) is shown present. Name appears with rank of Corpl. on a roll of Prisoners of War, surrendered by Gen. E.K. Smith, C.S.A. to Gen E.R.S. Canby U.S.A., May 26th, 1865, and paroled at Alexandria, La., June 7th, 1865. Residence shown as Polk County, Missouri.
Captain M.W. Mitchell is shown to have been in command of the above company."

A database at Ancestry.com lists a John H. Lessly - Company G, Unit 11th Missouri Infantry, Rank at Induction - Private, Rank at Discharge - Corporal, Notes Lessley, John H., Box # 000380, EXCT # 0009, Record # 00001637 Parents: James Elkins Lessly and Emily Harris.

Spouse: Mary James Davis. Mary James Davis and John Harris Lessly were married on 31 January 1871 in Howard County, MO.^827,828 Listed in marriage records as John H. Lesley and Mollie J. Davis Children were: Daisy Gray Lessly, Nora Ellen Lessly, Emma Bell Lessly, Mary Lessly, Florence James Lessly, Forest M. Lessly, John Embry William Lessly, Lula Clyde Lessly, Sarah Kathryn Lessly, Cora Amanda Lessly, Carl Lessly.

John appears in the 1870 census for Randolph Co., MO, page 182 A, Prairie Township. His name appears as "John M. Lessly". His age is listed as 29, his occupation as farmer and his place of birth as Missouri. The value of his real estate is listed as $250.00. Also appearing in John's household is a Judith Lessly (his sister?) and a Francis J. Lessly age 9 (his daughter ?). The age stated for John in this census is in conflict with the age stated in the 1850 census and on John's Confederate pension application. John is listed on the same census page as his brother James Elkins Lessly.

John appears in the 1880 census for Hunt Co., TX (Precinct 5, page number 547 C, NA film # T9-1312, FH Library Film # 1255312). His age is listed as 43, his occupation as Farmer and his place of birth as Missouri. His father's birthplace is listed as Virginia and his mother's birthplace is listed as Kentucky. Also appearing in the household are his wife, Adaline, and children James F., Stella M., and Nettie A.

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Information from John's Confederate Pension Application (#7220) is very interesting. He states his age as 63 (the date is Nov 1899) which confirms the age listed for John in the 1850 Polk County, MO census record. He also says that he has resided in Grayson County, TX for 25 years. This would put the time of the Lessly families move from Missouri to Texas at about 1874 or 1875. It also closely corresponds to information provided on the widow's pension application of Mrs. John H. Lessly. She filed the application in 1926 and said that she had been a resident for 50 years of Grayson County, TX. Again this puts the Lessly family move at about 1875. John states in his pension application that he is in feeble condition and not able to support himself thru labor. He also states that causes contributing to his condition were "exposure during the war and a wound received then". John states that the company and regiment he served in were "Company G, Eleventh Missouri Infantry". The stated time of his service is 3 years. This is the exact company and regiment that John H. Lessly's widow stated her husband served in. Further John H. Lessly turns out to be one of 2 witnesses called to testify to John M. Lessly's Confederate service. John H. Lessly's signature appears on the affidavit of witnesses. The other witness is T.B. Jernigan.

The paperwork for John's Confederate Pension Application includes some Company Muster Rolls on which John's name appears. John's name (J. M. Lessley) appears as a private on the Company Muster Roll for Company G, 8 Reg't Missouri Infantry for March & April 1863, April 30 to Aug 31 1863, and Company G, 11 Reg't Missouri Infantry, Jan & Feb 1864. He is stated as having enlisted on Aug 10, 1862 at Camp Cooper, Ark by J.J. Farley. Also a John M. Lessly, Pvt., appears on a Roll of Prisoners of War of Company G, 11th Regiment MO. Vol. Infantry Confederate States Army, commanded by Lt. T.W. Simpson, surrendered at New Orleans, La, by General E.K. Smith, C.S.A., to Maj. Gen. E.R.S. Canby, U.S.A., May 26, 1865, and paroled at Alexandria, La., June 7, 1865.

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Information printed by N.B. Forrest Mc Guire specifically names John M. Lessly as accompaning the James Elkins Lessly family to Grayson County, TX. John shows up near James Elkins and family in the 1850 and 1870 census records as well as the same Confederate unit. Family speculation for years has placed John M. Lessly as a close relative of James Elkins. Research done by Tim Lessley, indicates that John M. was the younger brother of James Elkins. John M. is named as a son in the will of John Lessley as is James Lessly. This would seem to confirm that John M. and James Elkins were brothers.

A descendant of John M. Lessly is L.D. Lessly - address 1030 W. Gandy St. #3
Denison, TX 75020-3390 903-465-5544

Is listed in the 1880 Texas census Hunt County page 547, twp E.D. 70
He may be listed in the 1860 Missouri census Polk County - page 48, Marion Township, ID# MO06068215

a John M. Lessly is listed in a database at Ancestry.com - Company G, Unit 11th Missouri Infantry, Rank at Induction - Private, Rank at Discharge - Private, notes Lssley John M., Box # 000380, EXCT # 0009, Record # 00001638

Notes from Freddy Lessly
John M. Lessly, my great-grandfather, is buried in the small confederate section of Westhill Cemetary in Sherman, Texas. I have tried really hard to find out what the M. stands for, but it is always listed as John M. and never anything else. If you meant 13 years instead of 13 months for the 1850 census, then, yes, the age is exactly right for the John M. to have been my great grandfather. I would almost bet the farm on it (that farm we inherited in Missouri along with those Negros) that he was the John M. which was the son of John and Mary. It sounds like he may have been the oldest. He got married to Margaret Elizabeth Marsh on January 26, 1860. She was age 19 in 1860. She was the daughter of John F. and Alcana D. Wisdom Marsh. Margerat E. was born in Missouri on November 17, 1843. John M.'s age on the 1860 census was 23. His post office was in Boliver of the Marion Township. He showed his home state as Tennessee. She showed her home state as Missouri. One child was born to the union, Fannie, who was born in 1860. Margaret Elizabeth died before John M. could get home from the civil war. John M. went to Texas after the civil war and left his daughter Fannie for the Marsh family to raise. On March 19, 1874, he married Adaline C. McPherson in Grayson County Texas. Adaline was born in Texas in 1852. Her parents were William W. and Elizabeth McPherson. Adaline Mcpherson died early in her life, possibly between 1875 and 1885. I have never been able to find her grave. (She was my great-grandmother). John M. and Adaline had three children, Fred James Lessly (my grandfather) born December 12, 1874 and the two daughters Stella and Nettie. This is about where I am at on all of this. Again, John Harris Lessly was a witness for my great grandfathers pension and it seems that he must have came to Grayson County Texas with James Elkins and his bunch. He once listed his home as Pottsboro Texas the same as James Elkins and his children. He later lived in Denison, Texas (about 7 miles from Pottsboro) where he died at the home of my grandfather Fred J. Lessly. He died poor, and in broken health according to records. His occupation was always listed as a farmer. (I don't know what happened to those slaves after the war). He died in 1906 and his son Fred died in 1918, so as you can see, they were gone a long time before I came along in 1945. Any information that we can share will be greatly appreciated and enjoyed.

Hope to hear from you soon:

Freddy!
Parents: John Lessly and Polly Zimmerman.

Spouse: Margaret Elizabeth Marsh. Margaret Elizabeth Marsh and John M. Lessly were married on 26 January 1860. Children were: Fannie J. Lessly.

Spouse: Adaline C. MacPherson. Adaline C. MacPherson and John M. Lessly were married on 19 March 1874 in Grayson Co., TX. Children were: Fred James Lessly, Stella M. Lessly, Nettie A. Lessly.

On the Broderbund Archive #5 a Judith Lessley is listed as marrying a Samuel West on 29 July 1855 in Polk County.

In the 1860 Missouris census for Polk County a Judith West is listed in the household of Mary Lessley. This is presumably the same Judith of the 1850 census. Judith's birthplace in the 1860 census is also listed as Kentucky however her age is listed as 45. Based on information from the 1850 census one would expect her to be about 39 or 40 not 45.

Judith may appears in the 1870 census for Randolph Co., MO. She appears in her brother's household, age 35 born in Kentucky. Parents: John Lessly and Polly Zimmerman.

Spouse: Samuel West. Judith Lessly and Samuel West were married on 29 July 1855 in Polk County, MO.¹²⁰³

Friday, 19 July 1912--DIED--Livonia, the three-year-old daughter of Oreon Lessley and wife, died at the home of her parents at 5:30 p.m.
Friday, July 12, 1912, after a 10-day illness of cholera infantum. All that medical skill and loving hearts could do to save the child was done but it was of no avail. Funeral services were held at the home by Rev. Bruce of the Baptist church and interment made in Old Log Chapel, Howard County. The bereaved parents have the sympathy of all. A more extended notice will appear next week.
Parents: Oreon Palmer Lessly and Cassie Dinwiddie Blansett.

Spouse: Waldo E. Malone.

Lessly, Choise B. Feb 7, 1911 Mar 24 1912
Lessly, Edna May May 28, 1906 Dec 3, 1992
Lessly, Fred J. 1874 1918
Lessly, Helen Anna Mar 26, 1916 ------------------- Wed Loyce D. Lessly Oct 5, 1937
Lessly, Loyce D. Feb 7, 1911 Jan 27, 1992 H/O - Helen Anna Lessly Oct 5, 1937

The Choise B. Lessly may have been a twin brother of Loyce D., who died at an early age. The Fred J. may be Loyce's father. Parents: Fred James Lessly and Mattie May Bailey.

Spouse: Helen Anna Chrisman. Helen Anna Chrisman and Loyce D. Lessly were married on 5 October 1937. Children were: Larry Dee Lessly, Fred Mack Lessly.

This child may or may not belong to this father. From "The Higbee News" dated 29 Apr 1904--Born, on the 28th, to Gus Lessley and wife, a daughter.

Notes from Chris Ann Lessly

Carole,
I asked Mom about Lucy Bennett Lessly, and my hunch was right. At a young age, Lucy was put in the mental hospital in Marshall, Missouri and lived there for the rest of her life. I don't know what her illness was....it makes you wonder, because in those days it seems they would admit people who could have had a physical condition like deafness, etc. Anyway, no other details on her.
Parents: William Augustus Lessly and Bessie Pyle.

Lucy E. Lessly was born Aug 24, 1884. She died on Aug 26, 1912, only 28 years old. She had been an invalid for some years. She was a remarkable person, about as nearly angelic as anyone I have ever known. Most of the Lesslys who died around Higbee are buried in the Higbee Cemetary, about a mile north of town.

In the 1900 census for Randolph County, MO, Lucy appears as a member of her father's household. Her date of birth is listed as August 1884, her age as 15, and her place of birth as Missouri. The birthplace of both parents is also listed as Missour. According to the census, Lucy can both read and write and has attended school for 7 months is the last year.

In the 1910 census for Randolph County, MO, Lucy appears as a member of her father's household. Her age is listed as 25 and her place of birth as Missouri. Both parents are listed as having been born in Missouri. She is listed as being able to read, write, and speak English. No occupation is listed for her.

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Friday, 30 Aug 1912--MISS LUCY LESSLY DEAD--Again has the Grim Reaper visited a Higbee home and claimed as his own one of Higbee's sweetest and best young ladies--Miss Lucy E. Lessly, who died at the home of her father, G. W. Lessly, Monday, August 26, 1912, at about 8 p.m. She was born in Higbee on August 24, 1884, and was therefore 28 years and two days of age. Fifteen years ago she united with the Christian church under the ministry of Eld. Strawn, and had since lived a consistent Christian life, and when able was a
constant attendant at all the church services. Her health failed her about four years ago, and she was taken to Colorado, but to no purpose, as she seemed to grow worse. After her return home, a change for the better took place and her family and friends looked forward to her permanent recovery. But it was not to be. Her disease, gastrointestinal tuberculosis, refused to yield to any and all treatment, and death came to her as a happy release from her sufferings, which were intense, especially in the last few months. Funeral services were conducted at the home Wednesday by Eld. A. N. Lindsey, of Clinton, her former pastor, and the immense assemblage of sorrowing
friends spoke most eloquently of the esteem in which she was held. She is survived by her father, three brothers--James, George and Oren, and one sister, Miss Annie, who have the sympathy of all in their sad bereavement. Interment was made in the city cemetery.

Friday, 13 Sep 1912--IN MEMORY OF LUCY EMILY LESSLY--August 24, 1884, a blossom budded in the home of George and Gussie Lessly, and they called this little blossom Lucy Emily. A bright winsome little daughter that brought joy and gladness to the parents' hearts, especially the mother, as 'twas her first born, and so many fond hopes and bright prospects loomed before her for this precious gift from God. Having been tenderly reared in the Christian home, she early learned to love her Savior, and the very first lessons were words of the Master, "Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for as such is the kingdom of Heaven." She confessed her Savior at the early age of thirteen years, and from that time until the final triumph, His love had been her comfort and strength through
all the days of joy or pain. In all her relations in life she was tried and true. As a daughter and sister she was beyond compare. Always the sweet, gentle trusting girl that had grown from her mother's arms into the high holy sphere of womanhood. It was a benediction to see or meet her. Whether talking or silent, her influence was such as to make all know that she lived in spirit with her Master. We cannot estimate the value of a life so unselfish and generous as was hers. Its influence, like the sun, drove away darkness and impurity. She
was grateful for the smallest favor shown to her or her loved ones, and never forgot to express her appreciation. She had been raised as a tender plant, but in the battle of life which she fought so long and patiently, she was strong and brave, and in the last days she would say to those around her, "I am trying so hard to be patient." What can we say of her beautiful faith and hope during the long dark hours?
Her calm patience, strong faith and abiding love seemed almost divine. With fine courage she welcomed every trial directed towards her recovery and expressed trust, modesty, and nobility of spirit in her simple unaffectedness. She was as she appeared to be, kindly and
genuinely interested in those about her, giving out cheer, sympathy, courage and heartfelt interest in all of God's work, and her love for all.
On God's own day he saw fit to call from its earthly abiding place this pure, sweet spirit, and as the evening shadows began to gather on Monday, August 26, 1912, at the age of twenty-eight years and two days, her frail body gave up the spirit to join the mother and other loved ones gone before. And 'twas a relief to the dear watchers to see the look of peace settle over the loved features which had been so long drawn and tired from suffering, and know that rest, peace and joy was hers. She had requested that Rev. A. N. Lindsay should speak the comforting words at her funeral, and many months before had selected the scripture to be read and the songs she loved. She was a loyal
life and local member of the Christian Women's Board of Missions, and a supporter and member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. The many friends and acquaintances who met at the home on the afternoon of her funeral told better than words how much they loved and admired the pure sweet soul of dear Lucy. And to the loved sister, who for over twenty years has taken the place of mother as well, these friends transfer their love, admiration and respect, and extend sympathy to her and the devoted father who, with the three brothers, can say,
This loved one has gone before,
Has passed the pearly gates,
And there is fairest paradise
She for her loved ones waits.
TWO FRIENDS.
Parents: George Washington Lessly and Augusta Palmer.

Individual: Matlock, Mahala
Birth date: Nov 16, 1895
Death date: Jan 1982
Social Security #: 441-38-0093
Last residence: OK 73071
State of issue: OK Parents: Paul C. Lessly and Martha Louise Guyton.

Spouse: Stanley G. Matlock. Mahala Lee Lessly and Stanley G. Matlock were married on 15 February 1912 in Norman, OK. Children were: Edna Jewel Matlock, Mary Lou Matlock, Ralph Steele Matlock, Virginia Lee Matlock, James Weldon Matlock, Herbert Paul Matlock.

Spouse: Rev Charles Richard Brace. Children were: Christine Andrea Brace, Carole Marie Brace, Daniel Edward Brace, Jeffrey Richard Brace.

In the printed account of the 1860 census for Polk County, MO, Mary appears as a child in her father's household. Her age is given as 6 and her place of birth as Missouri.

In the 1870 census for Randolph County, MO, Mary is listed as a member of her father's household. Her age is listed as 15 and her place of birth as Missouri. Also she is listed as having attended school within the last year.

The information from both census records confirms family information on Mary's birthdate and place of birth. Parents: James Elkins Lessly and Emily Harris.

Spouse: J. T. Robinson. Mary Ellen Lessly and J. T. Robinson were married on 15 November 1876 in Texas ?. Children were: Mary A. Robinson.

Individual: Kuhlman, Mary
Birth date: Jan 16, 1890
Death date: Aug 1973
Social Security #: 442-64-5501
Last residence: OK 73069
State of issue: OK

Notes from Richard Ryan
Made Roserock pictures for many years, digging the rocks she used up out of the ground on her farm. She was the catalyst in introducing a bill making the Roserock the state rock of Oklahoma. Drove a 1945, WWII Jeep
to check on her cattle after her husband died.

Listed as Mary Joe, not Mary Jo, in the papers given to me by H.T. Avey.
These papers were property of Tom Avey's wife, Winnie Mae Lessly Avey.

Married John Henry Kuhlman at high noon. See husband's notes.

Henry and Mary Jo later purchased the adjoining farm, making one-half section in the home place. In 1929, Mary Jo was honored by being selected as a Master Farm Homemaker. She was again honored in 1930 when her picture appeared in the "Who's Who in Oklahoma." August 28, 1945, Henry was given a Certificate of Award by the Oklahoma Banker's Association naming him "A Friend of the Land" for his practices of Soil Conservation in the Cleveland County District. In 1957, Mary Jo and Henry were awarded the title of "Golden Anniversary Farm Family" in Cleveland County. This same year they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Mary Jo continued to live on the farm they purchased on their wedding day after her husband's death. She not only managed the farm, but was a "rockhound" and aquired "museum of specimens." She had a large exhibit of rock creatures and jewelry which she made from rocks she had gathered and tumble polished.

Her main interest, however was in making Rose Rock pictures from her beloved rock, the Barite Rose. She was given a citation from the Oklahoma House of Representatives for being instrumental in getting this Barite Rose made the Oklahoma rock.

Parents: Paul C. Lessly and Martha Louise Guyton.

Spouse: John Henry Kuhlman II. Mary Joe Lessly and John Henry Kuhlman II were married on 25 December 1907 in Lessly farm hom, near Norman, OK. Children were: Mary Elizabeth Kuhlman, Harold Edgar Kuhlman, John Henry Kuhlman III, Margaret Louise Kuhlman, Thelma Joy Kuhlman, Kenneth Lloyd Kuhlman, Kertis Paul Kuhlman, Evelyn Sue Kuhlman.

Spouse: William Yoast. Mary M. Lessly and William Yoast were married on 7 March 1850 in Polk County, MO.^1197,1203

Individual: Lessly, Maurice
Birth date: Nov 2, 1912
Death date: Nov 1985
Social Security #: 448-07-2659
Last residence: OK 73030
State of issue: OK Parents: Melville Guyton Lessly and Clara Gertrude Horn.

Spouse: Goldie Lucella Garrett. Goldie Lucella Garrett and Maurice Guyton Lessly were married on 16 April 1933. Children were: Gerona Fay Lessly, Melva Joyce Lessly, Roy Roger Lessly.

Spouse: James Leroy Porter. Children were: Dennis Ray Porter, David Alan Porter.

Individual: Lessly, Melville
Birth date: Aug 24, 1888
Death date: Jun 1965
Social Security #: 446-38-6114
Last residence: OK
State of issue: OK

Notes from Richard Ryan
Listed as Melville, not Malvel, in the papers of Winnie Mae Lessly Avey.
These papers were given to me by H.T. Avey on February 27, 1993.

Malvel made his living farming, first near Moore, OK, later near Davis, Oklahoma. Parents: Paul C. Lessly and Martha Louise Guyton.

Spouse: Clara Gertrude Horn. Clara Gertrude Horn and Melville Guyton Lessly were married on 20 December 1911 in Clay Center, Clay Co., NE. Children were: Maurice Guyton Lessly, Zemily Audrey Lessly, Donald Edward Lessly.

Spouse: Wylie Barton. Mettie Faye Ruth Lessly and Wylie Barton were married on 14 July 1912 in Oklahoma, United States. Children were: Richard S. Barton, Russell Barton, Leroy Barton, Billy Barton, Mildred Barton, Wanda Barton, James Barton.

From "the Higbee News" dated 6 Dec 1907--The youngest child of Gus Lessly and wife has whooping cough and pneumonia and is not expected to live.

From "the Higbee News" dated 13 Dec 1907--OBITUARY--On Saturday morning, Dec 7, 1907, the dark death angel
hovered over and plucked from their hearts and home the darling baby boy of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Lessly, aged twenty-one months and twenty-one days. That dread disease among children, whooping cough, with penumonia added, was more than the little sufferer’s strength could stand, though the fight lasted through several days. Funeral services were held at the home by Revs. Robson and Houck, and interment was made in the city cemetery. (poem follows)
Parents: William Augustus Lessly and Bessie Pyle.

Spouse: Miricle.

Parents: John Harris Lessly and Mary James Davis.

Spouse: Lacy Louis Wells. Nora Ellen Lessly and Lacy Louis Wells were married on 27 December 1893 in Texas ?. Children were: Iva Wells, Cecil Gray Wells, Nellie Fay Wells, Hazel Wells, Susie Wells, Mary Wells, J.C. Wells, Joe Lessly Wells, Dessie Lee Wells, Carrie Bell Wells, Louis Lacy Wells, Frieda Wells.

Oreon Lessly grew up on the farm and soon after they (the Lessly family) moved to Higbee, he was employed for a time as telegraph operator at the Katy depot, then he had a job in the Wabash railroad shops in Moberly. He was married to Cassie Blansett of Higbee. They had two daughters Livonia, who died as a small child, and Loreta who is married to Waldo Malone and living at Clifton Hill, MO. Oreon died about 15-20 years ago, and Cassie three years ago.

According to James Alan Lessly, after Oreon and Cassie were married they boarded at a house owned by the mother of Omar Bradley in Moberly, Missouri.

In the 1900 census for Randolph County, MO, Oreon appears as a member of his father's household. His date of birth is listed as August 1886, his age as 13, and his place of birth as Missouri. The birthplace of both parents is also listed as Missouri. According to the census he can both read and write and has attended school for 7 months in the last year.

Friday, 24 Oct 1919, Vol 33. No 27--Oren Lessly is again back in harness selling groceries, having taken charge of that department in Andrews & Burton's big store, succeeding E. L. Bradley. The firm couldn't have found a more competent or accommodating man for the place, and that Mr. Lessly will keep his department right up to the minute and add many new customers goes without saying. We are not advised as to what Mr. Bradley will do.

Friday, 11 Aug 1922, Vol 36, No 17--While out motoring a few evenings ago, Mr. and Mrs. Oren Lessly got a good scare at the top of Sunshine hill, their car turning over, caused by Mr. Lessly applying the brake when the car began to skid. No damage was done to car or occupants.

Friday, 20 Mar 1925, Vol 38 No. 47, pg.5, col. 1--O. P. Lessly sold his residence property
in the south part of town last week to Ed Dennis, and the latter sold his residence to D.
M. Sunderland. Mr. Lessly has purchased the J. T. Randolph residence on Railroad street
and will take possession in May. Parents: George Washington Lessly and Augusta Palmer.

Spouse: Cassie Dinwiddie Blansett. Cassie Dinwiddie Blansett and Oreon Palmer Lessly were married in October 1908 in Higbee, Randolph Co., MO. 30 Oct 1908--LESSLY-BLANSETT--Orin Lessly and Miss Cassie Blansett two of Higbee's popular young people, were married Sunday morning by Rev. Notley Magruder at his residence southwest of town. They will make their home in Moberly, where Orin has a good position. The NEWS joins other friends in congratulations and best wishes.
Children were: Livonia Lessly, Loreta Lessly.

Friday, 29 Feb 1924, Vol 37 No 45--Misses Delphia, Addie and Orphia Lessly visited
their brother, Roy, and family at Clark last week.

Listed in SS Death Index
SSN - 491-07-0934
Born - 9 Aug 1912
Died - Mar 1985
Residence - 67218, Wichita, Sedgwick, KS
Issued - MO before 1951

Thursday, 28 Apr 1927, Vol 40, No 51, Pg. 5 Col. 2--LOCAL AND PERSONAL--Misses Addie and Orphia Lessly, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. G. E. Lessly, who have been suffering from diphtheria for the past week, are much better, we are glad to state. It was feared Tuesday night of last week that Miss Addie could not live through the night, and but for the fact that Dr. C. F. Burkhalter remained at her bedside all night
and fought for her life by keeping her throat clear, she likely would have passed away. A trained nurse was secured the next day, and each has received every care and attention. An air-tight quarantine was established as soon as the nature of the malady was determined, and there is no fear of the disease spreading. Where they contracted the disease is a mystery. So far as is known there are no other cases in this section.

Thursday, 5 May 1927, Vol 40, No 52, Pg. 1 Col. 3--SCHOOL NOTES--The high
school has been very sorry to lose Nellie Sperry, Addie and Orpha Lessly from their
midst. Nellie has gone to Marshall to live with her parents. Addie and Orpha have been
very ill with diphtheria, and will be unable to return to school. Parents: George Edwin Lessly and Willa Mae Daggs.

Spouse: Jack Mc Gee.

The Courier Journal Louisville, KY

HOPKINSVILLE - O.E. "Ozzie" Lessly, 87, died here Monday. His wife, Martha, survives.
Funeral: 11 a.m. Thursday, Cadiz Church of Christ. Visitation: the church, after 9 a.m.
Thursday. Arrangements: Goodwin Funeral Home, Cadiz Parents: Robert Thomas Lessly and Freida Christina Fehrle.

Spouse: Martha.

Spouse: Georgia Helen Huff. Children were: Helen Joyce Lessly, Roger Elbert Lessly, Janice Marie Lessly, Cecil Frederick Lessly.

Spouse: Grace Dorton. Grace Dorton and Oswald Elbert Lessly were married UNKNOWN.

In the printed account of the 1860 census for Polk County, MO, Paul is listed as a child in his father's household. His age is given as 2 months and his place of birth as Missouri. The post office for the family is Bolivar and in Marion Township.

In the 1870 census for Randolph County, MO, Paul is listed as a child in his father's household. His age is listed as 10 and his place of birth as Missouri. Also he is listed as having attended school within the last year.

Paul appears in the 1880 census for Grayson Co., TX as a member of his father's household. His age is listed as 20 and his place of birth as Missouri. Both parents are listed as having been born in Kentucky.

This information corresponds with family information on Paul's birthdate and birthplace.

Notes from Richard Ryan
Had nerve in head that caused pain. When doctors tried to surgically fix this problem, his heart gave out. Died in the operating room. Before he went into surgery he told "Lou" his wife, "Lou, hold down the fort, it is all yours.". He knew he would not make it.

According to papers obtained from H.T. Avey, Paul was born in Randolph County, Higbee, Missouri.

He was the third child of a family of five boys and two girls. As a young man he worked as a cowboy in New Mexico and Arizona. He is listed with his picture and biography in the National Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Paul and Martha Lou moved to Indian Territory, Purcell, Okalhoma, where their first child Melville (or Malvel) Guyton was born. Paul made the Oklahoma Run April 22, 1889, and staked a claim on a farm seven miles northeast of Norman, Oklahoma. The farm had been "soonered" and Paul paid $300 for the claim. They lived in a half-dugout for sometime and then finally completed a home which burned in September 1894. Seven more children were born to this couple as are listed in the profile.

Paul and Martha Lou lived on this farm until his death, March 6, 1942 and her death April 25, 1948.

Birthplace listed as Boliver, MO in Lynne Gibbs baby book. Parents: James Elkins Lessly and Emily Harris.

Spouse: Martha Louise Guyton. Martha Louise Guyton and Paul C. Lessly were married on 8 September 1885 in Pottsboro, Texas.⁹⁵⁰ Children were: Melville Guyton Lessly, Mary Joe Lessly, Paul Roger Lessly, Anna Lou Lessly, Mahala Lee Lessly, Richard Bland Lessly, Zemmie Thelma Lessly, Winnie Alice Lessly.

Individual: Lessly, Roger
Birth date: Sep 21, 1891
Death date: Dec 1979
Social Security #: 443-36-9877
Last residence: OK 73071
State of issue: OK
Zip of last payment: 73071

Notes from Richard Ryan
1st baby was born on the farm with the cord around his neck, with the baby dying shortly thereafter.

Roger and Edna farmed the land which cornered with the Lessly home place. His love of fishing prompted him to build several farm lakes which were always well stocked with fish. Upon retirement, Roger began the hobby of oil painting. He was well known as a painter and his pictures hung in many homes and businesses throughout Oklahoma and many other states. They had one son.
Parents: Paul C. Lessly and Martha Louise Guyton.

Spouse: Edna Catherine Bowles. Edna Catherine Bowles and Paul Roger Lessly were married on 21 September 1913. Children were: Roger Wayne Lessly.

Spouse: Erma Webb. Children were: Dean Allen Lessly, Angela Gail Lessly, David Bryan Lessly.

Spouse: Betty Joe.

Friday, 11 Apr 1919, Vol 32. No 51--PAUL LESSLY--"He came to raise our hearts to Heaven, He is gone to call us there."
Paul Lessly, son of Mr. and Mrs. George E. Lessly, was born July 7, 1915. Died April 3, 1919. It will be remembered little Paul was one of a pair of twin babies, his sister, Pauline, having died when about a year old. The love and attention the parents gave both babies was all give to Paul when Pauline was called home, and Thursday night when Paul was taken the parting was doubly hard. The little fellow was in his usual good health until Thursday night, when he was suddenly seized with convulsions and passed away before morning. He is survived by father and mother, four sisters and two brothers. Interment in the city cemetery. The sympathy of the entire community goes out to the bereaved family.
Parents: George Edwin Lessly and Willa Mae Daggs.

Friday, 25 Aug 1916--PAULINE LESSLY--"She came to raise our hearts to heaven; She goes to call us there." Just a little more than a year ago the Lord gave into the keeping of Mr. and Mrs. George E. Lessly twin babies, a beautiful little boy and girl, who were promptly named Paul and Pauline, respectively, and all the friends and relatives of this estimable family rejoiced with them in their good fortune. However, the Lord could not see fit to let them keep both babies, so last Thursday, Aug. 17, 1916, He called little Pauline home to be with Him in heaven. This time the friends and relatives met and mourned with the sorrowing family. but as they gazed at the little waxen figure so peaceful in death they could almost know God's reason for calling her home--the angels were her fit associates. In heaven she will be waiting to welcome her loved ones home. That will be her mission, and it is hoped the bereaved ones may be guided by her pure innocence. May they find comfort in God's word, which teaches that if His people will but trust in Him all will be well and some day they shall all be reunited in heaven. Parents: George Edwin Lessly and Willa Mae Daggs.

Spouse: Shackett.