Francis was the son of Josiah and Mary Williams Eley, who was just a lad when his father died and he was crushed. He married August 26, 1875, to Harriet Catherin Mangrum. They were God-fearing people known far and wide for their good lives. He was known to have quoted many times, 'Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil..." they attended Cumberland Presbyterian church until it disbanded, then went to the Methodist church at Unionville, often taking grandchildren. Their home was wide open to visitors and kin people always. The Mangrums gathered at their home, bringing with them the banjos, violins, and guitars. Each one could play all instruments, so they would play, swap instruments and play again.
Harriet died on Christmas Eve, December 24, 1920 and was buried on Christmas Day, at the Unionville Cemetery. Francis Eley had a shoe shop where he repaired shoes and harnesses. The old building stands still on the old homeplace.
He and Harriet had three sons; Jessie Lee Eley, John Franklin Eley and William Anderson Eley.

Written by Gladys Eley Harper, granddaughter
Submitted by Reva Eley Staggs, great-granddaughter

From Shelbyville Gazette
"A GOOD MAN GOES TO HIS REWARD"
Mr. F. M. Eley died at his home near Unionville last Sunday, after a few weeks illness; aged about 68 years. He was one of Bedford County's worthiest citizens, a man of highest Christian character and was much loved by a large circle of relatives and friends all of whom are deeply grieved to hear of his death. He was a loving and devoted companion and father and a true and obliging friend and neighboor. He was an active worker in the church and Sunday School and in every good movement in the community.
We extend our sympathy to relatives in their sorrow.
The funeral services were held Monday"


Another Shelbyville newspaper:
AN APPRECIATION
In this translation of Bro. Francis M. Eley, Unionville community has lost one of its best and most useful citizens. A vacancy is left which cannot be filled. A few weeks ago Bro. Eley had an attack of influenza approaching pneumonia and came very near death's door, but had so far recovered as to be able to go about his ordinary business and fill his seat at Sunday School and church. He was in his class on the fifth (?) and was taken sick again on that day. He had been sick a few days only when summoned to join the innumerable caravan of the dead. Brother Eley was born in Marshall county 65 years ago. He also married in Marshall county and joined the church at 17.
The writer has known the deceased intimately for more than 30 years. He has been associated with him in business,, socially and in Sunday school and church work. Unassuming but ready to meet any known duty, often deferring to the judgement and wishes of his friends interests. He was a memeber of the Presbyterial Church, U.S.A. but in no sense a sectarian, but exceedingly broad and liberal in his views. He had served as Superintendent of Unionville Sunday School, and at the time of his death was assistant Superintendent of the school. Our close association with Bro. Ealey warrents us in saying that his life was nearly a model Christian life. He was prompt in all realations, whether business, social or religious.
He was not a rich man, but by industry and economy had acquired a competency.
In discussing with the writer, some years ago, his conception of his financial obligations to various charitable and religious causes he said that he long had been a tither and that he attributed his modicum of successin business to that fact.
After recovering from his sickness some weeks ago,, he said that whil his life hung in the balance he was entirely indifferent as to the turn it might take.
After funeral services, conducted by Rev. Robinson, Chapel Hill, and attended by a large concourse of relatives and friends his remains were laid to rest by those of his wife in Unionvill Cemetery.

NOTE:
I have no idea of the writer of this fine tribute, nor in which paper it was printed.
Reva Eley Staggs