Rev. W. H. Harden passed away peacefully May 2nd after a lingering illness of several months. He was born April 24, 1836 and died May 2, 1913 making his stay on earth 77 years.
During the civil war his bravery and cheerfulness brightened the dreary pathway of his fellow soldiers and no wonder our hearts are grieved. After the war he was highly esteemed as a Primitive Baptist minister. As long as his health would permit, he always fulfilled his place in the pulpit. For twenty-seven years his life has been spent in preaching God’s Word. He would often talk to his children in a fatherly way on religious topics and the scriptures which he loved so dearly. We would not wish him back in this world of sorrow for he has left a bright evidence that he is at rest, where there will be no more sickness, death, or farewell tears to be shed. But we cannot avoid sad feelings when we met in Sturgeon Creek church and see his vacant chair and the vacant chair at home. He will be sadly missed at home and at church. But I would say, mourn not, for he is not dead, but sleepeth in the arms of Jesus.
During his illness he was visited by a great many of his people, for he was loved by all who knew him. His children arise up and call him blessed. A good man has gone to his rest, but the precious deeds he wrought are still here, to die not.
The floral offerings were profuse and beautiful, while the attendance at the burial was large, attesting to the popularity of the man.
We would say to his bereaved wife and children, weep not for your loved one-he is safe in Heaven and his works do follow. His daily walk and his goodbye conversations prove to our minds he is resting, sweetly resting. The wife has lost a loving husband, the children a kind father, the members a faithful minister and the community a good citizen.
To the loved ones who sit in sorrow where his steps never again echo, we extend heartfelt sympathy.
Article in official organ of Ben Hill County, Georgia, at that time (1913).
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