| Obituary A SUDDEN DEATH – 1890 Mr. B.F. Noble, an Old and Honored Citizen, Drops Dead While Among His Loved Flowers Mr. B.F. Noble, one of the most highly respected citizens of Montgomery, died about 5:30 o’clock yesterday afternoon, aged 74 years. The early part of the afternoon he spent at the cemetery planting flowers over the grave of a gifted son who died a few years ago, and whose untimely death he never ceased to lament. Returning home he paused in the front garden to prune a rose bush, and while in the act of stooping fell over dead among the roses and the beautiful flowers he loved so well, and cared for so tenderly. Mrs. Noble and his daughter, Mrs. A.A. Wiley, were out driving at the time, and no one was present to see him die. Mr. Noble was the oldest deacon in the First Baptist Church of this city, and had held this exalted trust for thirty-five years. He was devoted to his church and the cause of religion, and was regarded justly the most useful and influential member of his church. To him the other deacons, and the brethren, old and young alike, turned for advice, counsel and guidance in moments of doubt, business uncertainty, misfortune or sorrow. He was a man of great force of character, lion-hearted in his convictions, and yet as gentle as a woman in his disposition. He was charitable to the errors and frailties of others, tolerant in his judgments, and never harsh in his criticisms. He was not his brother’s keeper. His home-life was something beautiful to contemplate. He was a devoted husband, an indulgent father, a faithful friend, a loyal citizen, a sincere Christian, and an honest man. He came to Montgomery fifty years ago, and was one of those choice spirits that created this goodly city. Before the was he was a prominent banker and acquired a large fortune. Since that time he has not been actively engaged in business, as he was in easy circumstances and enjoyed the comforts of an elegant home and a large circle of kindred and friends. |