A.H. Hargis - Life Closes For Noted Breathitt Ciziten - Jackson Times, May 6, 1943

On Friday, April 30, death closed the life of Alexander Hamilton Hargis, 83, one of Breathitt County's oldest and best-known citizens. He died at the Good Samaritan Hospital, Lexington, where he was admitted two weeks before.

Mr. Hargis had been in failing health for several years but until March 20, had been able to go about town. He suffered a stroke and from that time until removed to the hospital was confined to his room at the Hotel Jefferson in Jackson.

The son of the late John S. and Evaline Britton Hargis, Mr. Hargis was born and reared in Breathitt County. He taught school in his early manhood and later became engaged in the general merchandise business, being associated with his brother, the late Judge James Hargis for many years. About 30 years ago he established the Hargis Bank, remaining as its president until it closed in 1930. He owned large holdings of real estate and coal and timber property.

Upon the death of his father, Mr. Hargis was named to the state senate from this district and had served as an official in the county. He was related to some of the most prominent of the pioneer families of Eastern Kentucky and through his business and political associations was widely acquainted.

Mr. Hargis was a member of the Methodist Church in Jackson. He gave liberally of his time and financial support to the church and all of its institutions and was one of the largest contributors to the building fund of the new Methodist Church in Jackson. For a number of years he served as member of the board of Stewards and after his retirement was named Stewart Emeritus. Though a loyal member to his own church, Mr. Hargis' charity extended beyond its doors and he gave liberally to other denominations and Christian educational institutions.

Mr. Hargis was born August 21, 1859. He married Joanna Elizabeth Lindon, and to this union seven children were born, One son, Thomas F. Hargis, survives, also six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and one sister an a foster daughter, Mrs. M. H. Holliday. He was an uncle of Kash C. Williams, Mrs. Grannis Bach, and H. June Jett of this city.

The body was brought to the Ray and Blake Funeral Home here late Friday where it remained until noon Sunday when it was taken to the church. Funeral services were conducted at two o'clock by the pastor, Rev. John H. Lewis. He was laid to rest beside his children in the family lot in the Joe C. Little Cemetery near O. and K. Junction.