William J. Kimes, one of the pioneer settlers and best known citizens of Protection-tp., died at 7 o'clock a.m. on last Sunday, November 21, 1920, at his home five miles north of Protection. About a year ago Mr. Kimes suffered an attack of blood poisoning, the result of running a splinter in one of his thumbs. After the blood poisoning had been checked, other complications set in and his general health became impaired. About two months ago he went to a Wichita hospital, where he stayed until almost two weeks ago and where he underwent two operations. It was thought that he was much improved after returning home, but on last Saturday he became worse and had begun to plan to return to the hospital, but was unable to do so as he weakened so rapidly. Uncle Billie, as he was familiarly called, made a hard fight for his life, but all that medical aid and loving hands could do proved unavailing. But as he yielded to the death summons, it was with a willing submission to the will of Him who "doeth all things well." Funeral services were conducted from the home on Monday and were in charge of Rev. N. S. Franklin, pastor of the Christian church in Protection. Interment was in the Protection cemetery.It was a little over 35 years ago that Billie Kimes settled in this county, and he was among the number who stayed, notwithstanding hard times, crop failures and discouraging conditions generally. He displayed that pluck and perseverance which has characterized all pioneer settlers in any country. He stemmed the tide of adversity and eventually won out in the struggle to build up a home for himself and family. Mr. Kimes was known to every old settler in the county, and during all the years of the county's development he helped in every movement for the betterment of the community. In all his dealings he was honorable, just and considerate. No one questioned his honesty, and as a neighbor and citizen he was true to every good instinct and a friend to all. The passing away of Billie Kimes will leave in the community a vacant place in the ranks of the old settlers and substantial citizens.
Mr. Kimes is survived by his wife and by one son, J. J. Kimes, and one daughter, Mrs. Ed Carter, both of Protection-tp. They have the sympathy of all in their hour of sad bereavement. At the time of his death Mr. Kimes was 66 years of age.
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