Mr. McCrary began business in Lonoke as well as we now remember in the fall of 1873, having for his partner his brother-in-law, Sam Witherspoon. When the latter died he continued business alone and has continuously sold goods since, being the only merchant in Lonoke who has done so. He was from Columbus, Mississippi, from which place he entered the Confederate army when quite a young man. He was elected Lieutenant in his company and was known as one of the best soldiers in Johnson's army. On the retreat through Georgia he was wounded on the head by a piece of shell and at the time was thought to be dead. There are those who believe the paralytical stroke attributable to this.

His name is so closely interwoven with every good for Lonoke that they are inseparable. There was never a more generous man in the private walks of life. H e was scrupulously honest and just in all his business relations. Indeed it would be difficult to find a better rounded man. For a quarter of a century he was allied with Lonoke and her people and he shouldered each and every duty of a good citizen cheerfully. His heart was as tender as that of a woman and unto every appeal of suffering or distress it opened wide. He was known by every one as an exemplary man in every respect and no one could have left us who will be more greatly missed or so sincerely mourned.

He was one or the pillars or the Presbyterian Church in the success of which he took the greatest pride, yet he was in no sense a sectarian. His religion embraced all mankind, encircled the helpless and entered the hovels of the poor. Unto his family he leaves a noble heritage.

He was buried from his church this, Wednesday, afternoon, the funeral services being conducted by Rev. T. J. Horne, a large concourse of people following the remains to the cemetery.

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in the files of the
Lonoke Democrat
By Marjorie W. McCrary
August, 1969