From an unidentified, undated newspaper clipping:
"James B. Mottice --
Born at Indian Run Valley, Stark Co., Ohio, September 15, 1835, married Eliza Markel in 1857. To them were born 7 children, 5 of them and 13 grandchildren with the widow survive him.
"He was a soldier in 162 O.V.I., was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church for 35 years. Died 11:30 a.m., June 12, 1893.
"Funeral and interment June 15 at 11 a.m. at White Church, Indian Run. Rev. W.E. Hill of Waynesburg officiating to a very large populace. Age, 57 years, 8 months, and 27 days. 'I am the resurrection and the life.'"
"Ay, the veteran sleeps at last,
Our comrades heart is still,
The noble form is pulseless,
His place no one can fill.
"With him life's voyage is ended,
The form and brow are cold,
And the battle of life's conflict
Is now forever told.
"Tread softly comrades 'round him,
Fold his hands across his breast,
Place a garland o'er his brow,
Calmly lay him down to rest,
Gently smooth the silvery locks,
Which adorn a face so fair,
And humbly place a lingering kiss
In doleful silence there.
"Look -- mark the quiet calm
Of the closed and dreamless eyes,
O'er which the silken lash
So firm and lightly lies,
While on the voiceless lip,
(And more beautiful than all,)
Is a smile -- the spirits welcome,
To the angel's beckoning call.
"Bereaved ones cease your weeping,
He'll heed it now no more
Free from all pain and anguish
Earth's bitter tears are o'er,
Many month's his sun was waning --
He nobly braved it day by day,
Patiently yet not complaining
'Till he was called away.
"One by one we all break ranks,
Glad heaven's port is gained,
What joy to sorrowing comrades
To know the goal's attained.
The Chief Commander doth control,
We know not what hour or day,
Reveille will sound for roll call
When all must answer -- aye."
signed,
Uncle Will