The Story of MALONE DAVIS

Malone, the oldest child of Jack and Sylvia Davis, was born between 1860 and 1862. He and his wife, Sally, had three children, but only their daughter Minnie Rebecca lived to reach maturity. Malone also had another daughter, Lottie.

A generous man, Malone postponed his original marriage date because his mother, Sylvia needed money to save her property. Malone was a storekeeper and merchant but unlike many business owners today, he was compassionate. He extended credit to his family and neighbors who he would sell needed food and supplies and waited until their crops were harvested and sold before he would be paid.

He showed his strength of character even as a baby, refusing to cry even when he was hungry. This quality was exemplified throughout every aspect of his life. His daughter recalled that regardless of what happened his words were always “Thank God; it could have been worse”. Malone was a man of few words but when he did speak it was always with wisdom and sincerity.

Malone served as a Deacon at Mt. Gillard Baptist Church in Carlton. He trusted God in all things.

He died suddenly on January 15, 1915. According to his daughter, he worked all day and came home to rest. He often said, “ I am going to live as close to God as I can, so when God gets ready for me, He’ll come for me and not let me linger” God granted him his wish. His mother Sylvia and granddaughter Doretha were with him when he died.

Sources:
1910 Census (April 10, 1910 age recorded as 47
1900 Census (age recorded as 40; birth year as 1860
Notes of Minnie Rebecca Davis (records a birth year after slavery – post 1865