In a collection of historical records entitled, "Gateway to the West, Volume II," the section on Stark Co., Will Abstracts, 1811-1822, page 555 mentions Peter Mottice as an executor of the will of John Hewitt, whose brother James was evidently the first justice of the peace in the area and immediately preceded Peter Mottice in that office:
HEWITT, John of Sandy township -- dated 1-30-1817. Brothers: William and James Hewitt. Sisters: Margaret Creighton, Catharine Mayes, Fanny, Nancy and Mary Ann. Nieces: Anna Creighton. Nephews: John Creighton, Jr., James Creighton son of John Creighton, Sr., and Robert Creighton. Bequeath to Mary Ann Faulk, relationship, if any, not stated. Executors: Peter Mottice and James Creighton. Signed: John Hewitt. Witnesses: Peter Mottice and Alpheus Brown. Codicil dated 2-5-1817 mentions brother-in-law, John Creighton, Sr. Same witnesses.