Charles N. Byles

The following account of the death of Charles N. BYLES is taken from a Washington paper of date of January 29, 1897. Mr. BYLES was formerly a citizen of Hopkins county and has many relatives living in the county at this time:

The city flag at half-mast early Tuesday morning announced to the citizens of Montesano that Charles N. BYLES, the founder of the town of Montesano, and her foremost citizen, had passed away. While the announcement had been expected for several weeks, the stern reality caused a no less feeling of profound sorrow at the untimely death of one who had done so much for the community and stood so high in the estimation of all.
Mr. BYLES had suffered from asthma and heart troubles for many years, and many times has been at death's door. Had he given up his interests in Montesano and gone to a different climate a few years ago, his useful life might have been prolonged for many years. But he considered this his post of duty and remained faithful to the end.
Mr. BYLES was seized with an attack of the grip early in the fall; he recovered sufficiently to go to the polls in November and cast his vote for the Republican candidates, as had always been his custom. The diseases which had long battled for his life took a fresh hold, and despite the best of care and most skillful medical aid that could be secured, the end came all too soon.
The funeral services were held at the Methodist church Thursday afternoon, and according to the request of Mr. BYLES, were conducted by his old-time pastor, Rev. W.I. COSPER, assisted by Revs. SMITH and STRYCKER. Despite the terribly disagreeable weather, the church was filled to overflowing. Many were present from other towns of the county to pay their last respects to their esteemed friend. (Source: Madisonville (Ky.) Hustler, Tue, July 20, 1897)