Confederatevets.com

The following report was made by the Memorial Committee of Joe Shelby Camp, No. 975, U. C. V.:

"James Robert Owsley was born March 8, 1845, at Auburn, Ala., and died May 21, 1920, at Chickasha, Okla. In his early boyhood he immigrated with his father to Columbia County County, Ark., and on the 15th of May, 1861, at the age of sixteen, he enlisted in Company C, 15th Arkansas Regiment, at Calhoun, Columbia County, Ark. This regiment was later consolidated with the 19th Arkansas, and the command was known as the 15th and 19th Arkansas Consolidated. Comrade Owsley served as a private until the surrender and was honorably discharged by parole on the 1st of June, 1865, at Camden, Ark.

"In October, 1866, he was married to Jane Antoinette Furlow, of Columbia County, Ark, who now survives him in her seventy-third year. To them were born eight children, six of whom, three sons and three daughters, are now living.

"Comrade Owsley had been a loyal and consistent member of Joe Shelby Camp No. 975, for about seventeen years, always taking an active interest in its affairs and using his best endevors to promote its advancement. He was particularly proud of the honor that his Camp bestowed upon his eldest son, John T. Owsley, who about three years ago was elected Commander of the Camp and still serves it in that capacity. He was a stanch member of the Baptist Church and lived and honorable Christian life, scrupulously attending to his religious duty. His last days were spent with his faithful wife and his children about him. By his request he was buried in his Confederate uniform, which he had delighted in wearing on all occasions pertaining to the U. C. V.

"Three other members of Joe Shelby Camp, No. 975, U. C. V., have died during the past year: T. A. Powell, J. J. Harness, and J. C. Lindsey. These comrades were types of the good soldier and citizen. They were true to their country and fellow man; therefore be it

"Resolved, That in the death of our comrades this Camp has sustained the loss of friends whose fellowship and counsels it was an honor and a pleasure to enjoy. We bear willing testimony to their many virtues and to their unquestioned honor and stainless life.

"Committee: W. H. Ferrell, R. G. Lee, J. S. Downs."