FICKLIN, William J. - - - (By N. A. Ficklin) Died at his home at Gonzales, Friday, February 23 at 4:30 p.m. Elder Ficklin aged 56 years, 1 month and 17 days. He was sick only a few days and it was a shock to the community to learn of his death. He was a loyal and progressive farmer. He was born and raised in Ascension Parish at Galvez. He was married quite early in life to Miss Mary Carpenter of Galvez and they lived a happy and contented life. He settled in the Black Bayou section, built his home, and was a leader in political and social circles. Everybody liked "Uncle Willie" as he was called by most everyone. Several years ago he moved to Kelsey, Texas, thinking he would better his condition, but after a short period of one year, returned to his relatives, friends and to the native state. He was a true and loyal member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and was a local Elder of the church and a Sunday school leader, and in company with his nephew Newton A. Ficklin, he has done missionary work for the past eight years throughout this state and many thousand of people heard him beat testimony of truthfulness of the Gospel as he understood it. Survived by wife and children; Mrs. Nettie Dixon of Scotland, Mrs. Hattie Lear of Doyle, Mrs. Freddie Ficklin of Duplessis, Elton Ficklin of Burtville and Bertie, Flossie and Myrtle, Fourteen grandchildren. (His oldest son Wm. A. Ficklin was killed in action in France during World War One.) The interment was held at 9:30 a.m. on February 25, in Ficklin Cemetery. A most beautiful and impressive funeral service was held. Elders Earl W. Allen, Fly de C. Campbell and J. Leo Hanson officiated. The ceremonies were attended by a large crowd of friends and relatives.
GONZALES WEEKLY 3 March 1923.