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Beaver Creek Cem Profile

 


Based on the photo inventory records for Beaver Creek Cemetery (Beaver Creek Cem.pdf), here is the list of documented interments organized alphabetically by family surname:

Alderman

  • Daniel Shade Alderman: Nov. 5, 1935 – Jan. 30, 1947.
  • Elsie R. Alderman: 1895 – 1981 & Clive A. Alderman: 1899 – 1984.
  • Eula Alderman: June 2, 1903 – Feb. 20, 1998.
  • Jewell A. Alderman: July 24, 1930 – Sept. 2, 1964.
  • Lake L. Alderman (Son of N. S. & A. J. Alderman): Sept. 29, 1897 – June 20, 1918.
  • Noah S. Alderman: Aug. 23, 1855 – May 2, 1901.
  • Noel R. Alderman: Jan. 18, 1834 – Jan. 12, 1912.
  • Willie Alderman: June 8, 1884 – May 6, 1925.

Ayers / Mills

  • Cynthia Kaye Mills Ayers: July 26, 1962 – Dec. 10, 1997 (Inscribed: "Loving Mother and Gifted Educator").

Baughman

  • Caroline S. M. Baughman (Wife of W. C. Baughman): Apr. 15, 1846 – May 19, 1923.

Beard

  • William H. Beard: Died Feb. 3, 1863, aged 71 years & 2 months.

Bond

  • Franklin H. Bond: June 20, 1891 – June 18, 1967.
  • Harvey L. Bond: 1912 – 1968.

Branham / Gaylor

  • Myrtle E. Gaylor Branham: 1911 – 1983.

Buzzard / Bussard

  • Arnold Jr. Buzzard (Son of Mr. & Mrs. Arnold Buzzard): Aug. 21, 1928 – Aug. 22, 1928.
  • Elizabeth F. Bussard: Died Sept. 5, 1886, aged 56 years, 8 months, and 3 days.
  • Ernest Buzzard: 1936 – July 17, 1997 & Barbara Snook Buzzard.
  • Esta L. Buzzard: Dec. 30, 1884 – Mar. 20, 1938.
  • Hazel A. Buzzard: March 2, 1905 – March 4, 1921.
  • Henry Bussard: Died Feb. 14, 1887.
  • James Edward Buzzard: Feb. 22, 1927 – April 15, 1953 (Michigan, GM 3, USNR, WWII).
  • Lillian Bancroft Buzzard: Dec. 8, 1921 – Dec. 13, 1970 (V.F.W. Auxiliary).
  • Mary Jane Buzzard: June 29, 1952 – Oct. 14, 2001.
  • Martha Bussard: Died Oct. 16, 1861, aged 48 years, 10 months, and 22 days.
  • Moses R. Bussard: Died Jan. 1892, aged 22 years, 9 months, and 13 days.
  • Rodney W. Buzzard: Dec. 17, 1880 – Sept. 4, 1972 (Inscribed: "One of the Last White Pine Loggers").
  • Waldo Noah Buzzard: Mar. 30, 1911 – Jan. 27, 2000 (PFC, 82nd Airborne Division, 326th Glider Infantry, WWII).

Christopher

  • Effie J. Christopher: Nov. 13, 1945 – Dec. 3, 1996.

Coulter

  • Isaac H. Coulter: Aug. 20, 1852 – Jan. 8, 1929.
  • Nancy A. Coulter: Jan. 12, 1854 – June 10, 1938.

Crigger

  • Frank Beryl Crigger: Nov. 24, 1919 – May 21, 2000 & Ethel Compton Crigger: Mar. 31, 1917 – [Incomplete].
  • James W. Crigger: Nov. 1, 1886 – Oct. 5, 1966.
  • Mae W. Crigger: July 12, 1893 – Oct. 31, 1973.

Dean

  • Alfred G. Dean: Feb. 24, 1890 – Sept. 17, 1973 & Ina C. Dean: May 15, 1894 – Oct. 9, 1990.
  • David T. Dean: 1850 – 1932 & Dana Belle Dean: 1869 – 1960.
  • Michael K. Dean: Jan. 2, 1963 – Jan. 10, 1973.
  • Silas B. Dean (Son of D. T. & D. B. Dean): Sept. 6, 1891 – Mar. 30, 1892.

Fleury

  • Della Underwood Fleury: Born Feb. 1936.

Gaylor

  • Angeline Gaylor: Sept. 25, 1848 – Aug. 20, 1901.
  • Anise E. Gaylor: Dec. 8, 1880 – Oct. 30, 1961.
  • Clarence Elbert Gaylor: June 5, 1917 – Apr. 2, 1988 (Tec 5, US Army, WWII).
  • Dicie H. Gaylor: July 3, 1893 – Oct. 5, 1953.
  • Elihu W. Gaylor: Mar. 1, 1879 – Sept. 23, 1957.
  • Florence Gaylor: Oct. 18, 1884 – Feb. 8, 1953.
  • Henry Gaylor: Feb. 14, 1883 – Mar. 10, 1956.
  • Joseph E. Gaylor: July 17, 1843 – May 11, 1891.
  • Nettie Ellen Gaylor: Aug. 9, 1905 – Sept. 7, 1991.

Hackett

  • Carrie Ruth Hackett: Mar. 4, 1913 – July 10, 1978.

Hamilton

  • Roy M. Hamilton: Apr. 12, 1911 – Aug. 13, 1986 & Mary E. Hamilton: July 18, 1916 – May 3, 1987.
  • William Joe Hamilton (Infant Son of Allen & Patricia Hamilton): Aug. 28, 1965 – Oct. 1, 1965.

Hoover

  • Andrew Strickler Hoover: Jan. 18, 1878 – Mar. 1, 1954.

Johnson

  • Harper Johnson: 1884 – 1967.

Knotts

  • Clarence Knotts: June 13, 1875 – Jan. 21, 1941 & Betty Knotts: Mar. 22, 1857 – Feb. 6, 1943.

Lester

  • Wm. Dave Lester: 1866 – 1930.

McComb

  • Mary E. McComb (Wife of O. N. McComb): Feb. 20, 1857 – Aug. 28, 1916.

McLaughlin

  • Barbara A. McLaughlin: 1963 – 2003.
  • James D. McLaughlin: Sept. 12, 1912 – Apr. 28, 1973.

Miller

  • William L. Miller: June 9, 1911 – Feb. 18, 1983 & Mabel U. Miller: July 10, 1915 – Oct. 13, 2002.

Mills

  • Alice Underwood Mills: Apr. 18, 1945 – May 6, 1998 & Andrew Robert Mills: June 9, 1931 – [Incomplete].

Oscar

  • John H. Oscar: Mar. 10, 1921 – Jan. 14, 1994 & Dolly N. Oscar: June 7, 1919 – July 9, 1973.

Perkins

  • Clyde L. Perkins: July 7, 1912 – July 20, 1964 & Nora V. Perkins: May 11, 1912 – Aug. 1, 2003.

Pyles / Ryder

  • Baby Boy Pyles: (Undated).
  • Baby Roy S. Pyles: Born & Died Apr. 1, 1890.
  • Betty Pyles: Dec. 29, 1918 – Jan. 16, 1919.
  • Cora J. Pyles: Mar. 29, 1902 – Jan. 9, 1904.
  • James Pyles: Oct. 22, 1817 – Mar. 31, 1888.
  • Joseph S. B. Pyles: Aug. 30, 1867 – Feb. 3, 1953.
  • Mary A. V. Pyles Ryder: Jan. 11, 1878 – July 15, 1972.
  • George H. Ryder: July 7, 1879 – Jan. 9, 1964.
  • Susan C. Pyles: May 12, 1828 – Apr. 20, 1914.

Ramsey

  • Ernest Mc. Ramsey: March 4, 1917 – May 21, 1965.

Redman

  • Clarence M. Redman: Aug. 28, 1923 – Mar. 27, 2004 & Ola D. Redman: Sept. 16, 1923 – [Incomplete].

Sharp

  • A. H. Sharp: May 2, 1852 – Feb. 2, 1902.
  • Andrew Sharp: Nov. 5, 1818 – June 3, 1882 & Sarah A. Sharp: Aug. 12, 1829 – Feb. 7, 1911.
  • Dolpha Yeager Sharp: April 2, 1908 – Feb. 11, 1962 & Regenia Underwood Sharp: Born March 5, 1909.
  • Ruth I. Sharp: Feb. 13, 1940 – July 30, 1992 & Dharl L. Sharp Sr.: Born May 3, 1936.

Simmons

  • Sanford R. Simmons: June 14, 1916 – Dec. 6, 1963 (S Sgt, Co E 592nd Engr Boat & Shore Regt, WWII) & Jewell M. Simmons: Born Nov. 3, 1918.

Symes

  • Mazie Ellen Symes: June 27, 1900 – Sept. 28, 1901.

Underwood

  • Ethel E. Underwood: Nov. 14, 1897 – Jan. 15, 1983 & C. Clawson Underwood: Feb. 28, 1885 – Dec. 7, 1969.
  • Grady Ray Underwood: Nov. 2, 1940 – Dec. 19, 2003.
  • Lowell T. Underwood: May 29, 1942 – May 1971 (SSG, RVN Training Center Det. 3, Vietnam).
  • Oliver H. Underwood: 1911 – 1971 & Maude M. Underwood: 1918 – 2004.
  • Watson Sherwood Underwood: Nov. 6, 1912 – Jan. 22, 1995 & Grace C. Underwood: Born Oct. 20, 1924.
  • Watson Sherwood Underwood Jr.: Aug. 3, 1947 – April 2, 1968 (PFC, 2nd Bn 7th Cav 1st Cav Div, Vietnam).

Van Reenen

  • Douglas Guy Van Reenen: July 19, 1950 – Nov. 22, 2004 (OS3, US Navy, USS Sacramento, Vietnam).
  • Guy E. Van Reenen: 1924 – [Incomplete] & Amy J. Van Reenen: 1913 – 1995.

Wanless

  • Norman F. Wanless: 1909 – 1963.

Whiting

  • Children's Dedicated Marker: Dedicated as the "Loving Mother of Vaden Covington, Richard Whiting, Larry Whiting, Wayne, Harlan Whiting, Harry Whiting, Judy W. Swoope, Gayle S. Cockerman".

Workman

  • Elmer D. Workman: 1905 – 1986 & Lola E. Buzzard Workman: 1915 – 1988.

An analysis of the military graves recorded at Beaver Creek Cemetery (Beaver Creek Cem.pdf) reveals a strong concentration of service members from World War II and the Vietnam War, representing varied branches, combat infantry divisions, naval support vessels, and specialized units:

1. World War II Veterans (1941–1945)

The World War II interments showcase specialized ground, amphibious engineering, naval, and airborne roles:

  • PFC Waldo Noah Buzzard (Mar. 30, 1911 – Jan. 27, 2000): Private First Class in the US Army, serving in Company B, 326th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division.
  • S Sgt Sanford R. Simmons (June 14, 1916 – Dec. 6, 1963): Staff Sergeant in Company E, 592nd Engineer Boat & Shore Regiment (Virginia).
  • GM 3 James Edward Buzzard (Feb. 22, 1927 – April 15, 1953): Gunner's Mate 3rd Class, US Naval Reserve (Michigan).
  • MAM 3 Otis S. Lester (Dec. 13, 1915 – Dec. 26, 1972): Mailman 3rd Class, US Navy.
  • Tec 5 Clarence Elbert Gaylor (June 5, 1917 – Apr. 2, 1988): Technician 5th Grade, US Army.
  • Tec 5 Arley S. Coin (Feb. 5, 1915 – Jan. 7, 1956): Technician 5th Grade, US Army.

2. Vietnam War Veterans & Combat Losses

The Vietnam War interments reflect both direct air-cavalry combat and technical training deployments:

  • PFC Watson Sherwood Underwood Jr. (March 3, 1947 – April 2, 1968): Private First Class in the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, who died during active service in Vietnam at age 21.
  • SSG Lowell T. Underwood (May 29, 1942 – May 1971): Staff Sergeant attached to RVN Training Center Detachment 3 in Vietnam.
  • OS3 Douglas Guy Van Reenen (July 19, 1950 – Nov. 22, 2004): Operations Specialist 3rd Class, US Navy, who served aboard the fast combat support ship USS Sacramento (AOE-1).

3. Post-WWII / Cold War Service

  • Sgt Ivan J. Underwood (August 18, 1938 – June 16, 1971): Sergeant in the US Army.

4. Material Culture & Commemorative Art

  • Standardized Government Markers: The veterans' graves feature a mix of upright white marble tablets bearing carved Christian crosses (such as Watson Sherwood Underwood Jr., Lowell T. Underwood, and Clarence Elbert Gaylor) and flat bronze military markers mounted on granite bases or ground slabs (such as Douglas Guy Van Reenen, Otis S. Lester, and Waldo N. Buzzard).
  • Auxiliary Memorials: In addition to active-duty veterans, markers such as Lillian Bancroft Buzzard's (1921–1970) highlight community support organizations like the V.F.W. Auxiliary.

The Underwood family line represents one of the largest and most prominent family networks interred at Beaver Creek Cemetery, spanning multiple generations across the 20th century:

1. Household Elders & Core Lineages

  • C. Clawson Underwood (Feb. 28, 1885 – Dec. 7, 1969) and Ethel E. Underwood (Nov. 14, 1897 – Jan. 15, 1983).
  • Denver Underwood (1907 – 1985) and Dollie Underwood (1913 – 2002).
  • Oliver H. Underwood (1911 – 1971) and Maude M. Underwood (1918 – 2004).
  • Watson Sherwood Underwood (Nov. 6, 1912 – Jan. 22, 1995) and Grace C. Underwood (born Oct. 20, 1924).

2. Military Service & Vietnam War Sacrifices

The family bears a profound legacy of military service during the Vietnam War era:

  • PFC Watson Sherwood Underwood Jr. (March 3, 1947 – April 2, 1968): Private First Class in Company B, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, who died during active combat in Vietnam at age 21.
  • SSG Lowell T. Underwood (May 29, 1942 – May 1971): Staff Sergeant attached to RVN Training Center Detachment 3 in Vietnam.
  • Sgt Ivan J. Underwood (August 18, 1938 – June 16, 1971): Sergeant in the US Army.

3. Later Generations & Intermarried Branches

  • Grady Ray Underwood (Nov. 2, 1940 – Dec. 19, 2003): Commemorated with a dark granite headstone etched with a mountain cabin landscape and inscribed: "A mountain of a man with a heart of gold / Beloved Husband, Father & Grandfather".
  • Intermarried Family Lines:
    • Regenia Underwood Sharp (born March 5, 1909), wife of Dolpha Yeager Sharp.
    • Della Underwood Fleury (born Feb. 1936).
    • Alice Underwood Mills (April 18, 1945 – May 6, 1998), wife of Andrew Robert Mills.

The Sharp family line at Beaver Creek Cemetery represents one of the foundational 19th-century lineages in the community, with interments spanning from the early 1800s through the late 20th century:

1. 19th-Century Patriarchs & Elders

  • Andrew Sharp (Nov. 5, 1818 – June 3, 1882) & Sarah A. Sharp (Aug. 12, 1829 – Feb. 7, 1911): Represent the earliest documented generation of the family at Beaver Creek, commemorated with a shared horizontal granite monument inscribed "In Loving Memory".
  • A. H. Sharp (May 2, 1852 – Feb. 2, 1902): Passed away at the turn of the 20th century at age 49; marked by an upright carved tablet with a traditional epitaph.

2. Mid-20th-Century Lineages & Family Connections

  • Dolpha Yeager Sharp (April 2, 1908 – Feb. 14, 1962) & Regenia Underwood Sharp (born March 5, 1909): Highlight the intermarriage and close relationship between two of Beaver Creek's major family lines—the Sharp and Underwood households.
  • Dharl L. Sharp Sr. (born May 3, 1936) & Ruth I. Sharp (Feb. 13, 1940 – July 30, 1992): Share a polished double-depth granite headstone featuring floral scrollwork.

3. Late-20th-Century Generation

  • Andra Lowell Sharp ("Andy") (July 12, 1955 – Feb. 1, 1989): Commemorated with a custom grey granite headstone featuring a heart-shaped central ribbon inscribed "Andy / In Loving Memory".

The Alderman family line is one of the most extensive family groups interred at Beaver Creek Cemetery, with burial records spanning over a century from the mid-19th century through the late 20th century:

1. 19th-Century Patriarchs & Elders

  • Noel R. Alderman (Jan. 18, 1834 – Jan. 12, 1912): One of the earliest documented generations of the family in the area.
  • Noah S. Alderman (Aug. 23, 1855 – May 2, 1901) & Alginda B. Alderman (April 14, 1862 – April 19, 1917): Alginda's marker is inscribed as the wife of Noah S. Alderman.

2. Early-to-Mid 20th Century Generations

  • Willie Alderman (June 8, 1884 – May 6, 1925): Commemorated with a carved floral marker inscribed "Rest in peace".
  • Lake L. Alderman (Sept. 29, 1897 – June 20, 1918): Son of N. S. & A. J. Alderman, who passed away during World War I at age 20.
  • Clive A. Alderman (1899 – 1984) & Elsie R. Alderman (1895 – 1981): Share a polished grey granite monument featuring twin carved hearts.
  • Eula Alderman (June 2, 1903 – Feb. 20, 1998): Lived to 94 years of age; shares a plot border with the Underwood family line.
  • William Henry Alderman (1905 – 1971).
  • Harry B. Alderman (1918 – 1976): Inscribed with a sunburst design and the phrase "Beyond the Sunset".

3. Youth Losses & Intermarried Lines

  • Daniel Shade Alderman (Nov. 5, 1935 – Jan. 30, 1947): Passed away at age 11; marked by a headstone featuring a relief carving of a resting lamb.
  • Jewell A. Alderman (July 24, 1930 – Sept. 2, 1964).
  • Grace Alderman Spencer (June 3, 1919 – Feb. 16, 1959).
  • Helen Z. Alderman Ashman (Feb. 25, 1926 – Jan. 12, 1997): Inscribed with her exact age at death (70 years, 11 months, 18 days).

The Buzzard (and historically Bussard) family line represents one of the largest and most historically rich lineages interred at Beaver Creek Cemetery, documenting the community's early 19th-century origins, timber heritage, and World War II service:

1. 19th-Century Pioneer Elders ("Bussard" Spelling)

The earliest generations at Beaver Creek reflect the older regional spelling variation of the surname (Bussard):

  • Martha Bussard: Died October 16, 1861, at the age of 48 years, 10 months, and 22 days.
  • Elizabeth F. Bussard: Died September 5, 1886, aged 56 years, 8 months, and 3 days.
  • Henry Bussard: Died February 14, 1887.
  • Moses R. Bussard: Passed away in January 1892 at age 22.

2. Timber Trade & White Pine Logging Heritage

Members of the Buzzard household played a vital role in the region's historic timber industry:

  • Rodney W. Buzzard (December 17, 1880 – September 4, 1972): Commemorated with a headstone featuring a carved relief of crossed logging saws and a notable epitaph honoring him as "One of the Last White Pine Loggers".
  • Lola E. Buzzard Workman (1915 – 1988): Married to Elmer D. Workman (1905 – 1986), sharing a dark granite monument also etched with cross-cut logging saws.

3. Military Service & Auxiliary Contributions

The Buzzard family contributed significantly to World War II military deployments and community veterans' support:

  • PFC Waldo Noah Buzzard (March 30, 1911 – January 27, 2000): Born in Enid, Oklahoma, he served in World War II as a Private First Class in Company B, 326th Glider Infantry, 82nd Airborne Division.
  • GM 3 James Edward Buzzard (February 22, 1927 – April 15, 1953): Served as a Gunner's Mate 3rd Class in the US Naval Reserve during World War II.
  • Lillian Bancroft Buzzard (December 8, 1921 – December 13, 1970): Inscribed as an active member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary.

4. Mid-to-Late 20th Century Generations

  • Esta L. Buzzard (December 30, 1884 – March 20, 1938): Marked by a tall column monument adorned with a carved laurel wreath and the epitaph "Thy trials ended, Thy rest is won".
  • Arnold Joseph Buzzard (1907 – 1989) and Arnold Jr. Buzzard (who passed away at 1 day old on August 22, 1928).
  • Hazel A. Buzzard (March 2, 1905 – March 4, 1921): Passed away at age 16.
  • Ernest Buzzard (1936 – July 17, 1997) & Barbara Snook Buzzard.
  • Mary Jane Buzzard (June 29, 1952 – October 14, 2001): Commemorated with a double heart-shaped granite monument.

The Gaylor family line is one of the most prominent multi-generational lineages recorded at Beaver Creek Cemetery, with interments spanning from the mid-19th century through the early 21st century:

1. 19th-Century Pioneer Elders

  • Joseph E. Gaylor (July 17, 1843 – May 11, 1891): One of the earliest documented Gaylor interments at Beaver Creek, marked by a carved upright stone slab inscribed "Asleep in Jesus".
  • Angeline Gaylor (Sept. 25, 1848 – Aug. 20, 1901): Commemorated with an arched headstone inscribed "Beloved one, farewell".

2. Early-to-Mid 20th Century Households

  • Elihu W. Gaylor (Mar. 1, 1879 – Sept. 23, 1957) and Florence Gaylor (Oct. 18, 1884 – Feb. 8, 1953), whose headstone reads "Forever with the Lord". Their infant son O. W. Gaylor (Nov. 30, 1908 – Sept. 14, 1909) passed away at nine months of age.
  • Houston E. Gaylor (1880 – 1967): Commemorated with a headstone lovingly inscribed "OUR GRANDPAP".
  • Anise E. Gaylor (Dec. 8, 1880 – Oct. 30, 1961): Marked by a headstone reading "Rest in peace".
  • Henry Gaylor (Feb. 14, 1883 – Mar. 10, 1956) and Dicie H. Gaylor (July 3, 1893 – Oct. 5, 1953).
  • Woods O. Gaylor (Oct. 5, 1908 – July 30, 1952): Marked with a headstone reading "FATHER".
  • Daisy Gaylor (1910 – 1910): An infant interment marked by a metal funeral home marker set against native rock.

3. WWII Military Service & Later Lineages

  • Tec 5 Clarence Elbert Gaylor (June 5, 1917 – Apr. 2, 1988): Served as a Technician 5th Grade in the US Army during World War II, commemorated with an official upright military footstone.
  • Nettie Ellen Gaylor (Aug. 9, 1905 – Sept. 7, 1991).
  • Lillie Mae Gaylor (Oct. 7, 1912 – July 8, 2002).
  • Intermarried Family Branches:
    • Myrtle E. Gaylor Branham (1911 – 1983): Commemorated as "OUR MOTHER".
    • Lillie Grace Gaylor Landis (1917 – 1995): Inscribed with the tribute "AN INSPIRATION TO ALL WHO KNEW HER".

The Dean family line represents a multi-generational household recorded at Beaver Creek Cemetery, documenting local family life from the mid-19th century through the late 20th century:

1. 19th-Century Patriarchs & Elders

  • David T. Dean (1850 – 1932) & Dana Belle Dean (1869 – 1960): Represent the core 19th-century patriarchal generation of the family. They share a joint monument inscribed with the epitaph on David's side: "Kind father of love, thou art gone to thy rest, forever to bask 'mid the joys of the blest".

2. Early-to-Mid 20th-Century Generation

  • Alfred G. Dean (Feb. 24, 1890 – Sept. 17, 1973) & Ina C. Dean (May 15, 1894 – Oct. 9, 1990): Share a polished granite headstone featuring carved praying hands and a central flower vase inset inscribed "Hallowed be Thy Name". Ina lived to 96 years of age.

3. Childhood Losses & Youth Tributes

The Dean family monuments preserve poignant records of childhood loss across different eras:

  • Silas B. Dean (Sept. 6, 1891 – Mar. 30, 1892): Infant son of D. T. and D. B. Dean who passed away at six months old. He is commemorated by an upright spire monument bearing the inscription "How desolate our home, bereft of thee".
  • Michael K. Dean (Jan. 2, 1963 – Jan. 10, 1973): Marked by a pedestal headstone inscribed as "SON" with the epitaph: "In the morning of his day, in youth and love, he passed away", having passed away eight days after his 10th birthday.

An analysis of the birth and death dates recorded across the headstones at Beaver Creek Cemetery reveals distinct demographic patterns, reflecting sharp contrasts between high 19th and early-20th-century infant mortality, youth losses, and remarkable 20th-century adult longevity:

1. Infant & Childhood Mortality

The memorial records document significant vulnerability during infancy and early childhood, particularly between 1890 and the early 1920s:

  • Infants (Under 1 Year):
    • Baby Roy S. Pyles: Born and died April 1, 1890.
    • Silas B. Dean: Passed away at 6 months old (Sept. 6, 1891 – Mar. 30, 1892).
    • Infant Pyles: Passed away at 5 months old.
    • Betty Pyles: Lived only 18 days (Dec. 29, 1918 – Jan. 16, 1919).
    • Shade L. Symes: Passed away at 2 months old (July 31, 1904 – Oct. 9, 1904).
    • Fannie L. Symes: Born and died August 2, 1909.
    • Daisy Gaylor: Interred in 1910.
    • William Joe Hamilton: Passed away at 1 month old (Aug. 28, 1965 – Oct. 1, 1965).
  • Toddlers & Children:
    • Mazie Ellen Symes: Died at age 1 (Apr. 27, 1900 – Sept. 28, 1901).
    • Cora J. Pyles: Died at age 1 (Mar. 29, 1902 – Jan. 9, 1904).
    • Michael K. Dean: Passed away at age 10 (Jan. 2, 1963 – Jan. 10, 1973).
    • Daniel Shade Alderman: Passed away at age 11 (Nov. 5, 1935 – Jan. 30, 1947).

2. Youth & Early Adult Mortality

A significant number of interments record deaths occurring between ages 16 and 26, often tied to disease outbreaks, dangerous mountain timber labor, or military service:

  • Hazel A. Buzzard: Died at age 16 (Mar. 2, 1905 – Mar. 4, 1921).
  • Dewey A. Symes: Passed away at age 19 (Mar. 10, 1899 – Mar. 6, 1919).
  • Lake L. Alderman: Passed away at age 20 during WWI (Sept. 29, 1897 – June 20, 1918).
  • Moses R. Bussard: Died at age 22 in January 1892.
  • GM 3 James Edward Buzzard: Passed away at age 26 (Feb. 22, 1927 – April 15, 1953).

3. Mid-Life Adult Mortality (Ages 40–65)

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, several household heads passed away in their 40s and 50s:

  • Joseph E. Gaylor: Died at age 47 (July 17, 1843 – May 11, 1891).
  • Martha Bussard: Died at age 48 in October 1861.
  • A. H. Sharp: Died at age 49 (May 2, 1852 – Feb. 2, 1902).
  • Lillian Bancroft Buzzard: Died at age 49 (Dec. 8, 1921 – Dec. 13, 1970).
  • Willie Alderman: Died at age 40 (June 8, 1884 – May 6, 1925).
  • Ernest Mc. Ramsey: Died at age 48 (Mar. 4, 1917 – May 21, 1965).
  • Elizabeth F. Bussard: Died at age 56 in September 1886.
  • Clyde L. Perkins: Died at age 52 (July 7, 1912 – July 20, 1964).

4. Exceptional Longevity (Octogenarians & Nonagenarians)

Despite early life hazards, individuals who survived into adulthood frequently attained exceptional ages in the 80s and 90s:

  • Nonagenarians (90+ Years):
    • Ina C. Dean: Reached 96 years of age (May 15, 1894 – Oct. 9, 1990).
    • Nora V. Perkins: Reached 91 years of age (May 11, 1912 – Aug. 1, 2003).
    • Rodney W. Buzzard: Reached 91 years of age (Dec. 17, 1880 – Sept. 4, 1972).
    • Dana Belle Dean: Reached 91 years of age (1869 – 1960).
  • Octogenarians (80–89 Years):
    • Waldo Noah Buzzard: Lived to age 88 (Mar. 30, 1911 – Jan. 27, 2000).
    • Elsie R. Alderman: Lived to age 86 (1895 – 1981).
    • Clive A. Alderman: Lived to age 85 (1899 – 1984).
    • Nettie Ellen Gaylor: Lived to age 86 (Aug. 9, 1905 – Sept. 7, 1991).
    • Ethel E. Underwood: Lived to age 85 (Nov. 14, 1897 – Jan. 15, 1983).
    • Joseph S. B. Pyles: Lived to age 85 (Aug. 30, 1867 – Feb. 3, 1953).
    • Betty Knotts: Lived to age 85 (Mar. 22, 1857 – Feb. 6, 1943).
    • C. Clawson Underwood: Lived to age 84 (Feb. 28, 1885 – Dec. 7, 1969).
    • Nancy A. Coulter: Lived to age 84 (Jan. 12, 1854 – June 10, 1938).
    • Watson Sherwood Underwood: Lived to age 82 (Nov. 6, 1912 – Jan. 22, 1995).
    • Sarah A. Sharp: Lived to age 81 (Aug. 12, 1829 – Feb. 7, 1911).

Comparing late-20th-century headstones like Andra Lowell Sharp's ("Andy") to the 19th-century markers across the Beaver Creek Cemetery plot highlights clear evolution in material durability, monument geometry, symbolic motifs, and epitaph style:

1. Material & Weathering Resilience

  • 19th-Century Markers: Early graves (such as those of Martha Bussard, Elizabeth F. Bussard, A. H. Sharp, and Moses R. Bussard) feature slender white marble slabs, limestone, or native sandstone. These softer, porous stones exhibit noticeable biological weathering, dark lichen staining, moss growth, and surface erosion over time.
  • Late-20th-Century Markers: Modern monuments (like Andy Sharp's, Dolpha & Regenia Sharp's, and Dharl & Ruth Sharp's) are carved from dense, machine-cut granite. Granite resists environmental degradation and lichen growth, preserving polished surfaces, bevels, and sandblasted lettering.

2. Monument Profile & Scale

  • 19th-Century Markers: Favored vertical, upright architectural forms, including multi-tiered obelisks (such as James Pyles' soaring monument), pointed vertical spires (such as Silas B. Dean's infant marker), and upright arched tablets.
  • Late-20th-Century Markers: Shifted toward low-profile, horizontal die blocks mounted on heavy granite bases. This era widely adopted horizontal companion monuments designed to mark joint family or double plots (such as Dharl L. Sr. & Ruth I. Sharp or C. Clawson & Ethel E. Underwood).

3. Symbolic Artistry & Ornamentation

  • 19th-Century Markers: Emphasized traditional Victorian mourning motifs, such as carved mourning doves (e.g., Baby Roy S. Pyles), classic floral scrollwork, and precise age breakdowns listing exact years, months, and days at death (such as Martha Bussard dying at 48 years, 10 months, and 22 days).
  • Late-20th-Century Markers: Feature personalized graphic etchings—such as the heart-shaped central ribbon on Andy Sharp's stone, double heart contours (e.g., Mary Jane Buzzard), praying hands over open Bibles, and custom floral ribbon borders.

4. Epitaph Tone & Personification

  • 19th-Century Markers: Characterized by formal, standardized religious phrasing, such as "Asleep in Jesus", "Of such is the kingdom of Heaven", or "How desolate our home, bereft of thee".
  • Late-20th-Century Markers: Incorporate informal family nicknames (such as "Andy" or "OUR GRANDPAP"), exact marriage dates, and personal tributes like "In Loving Memory".

Within Beaver Creek Cemetery, comparing the individual family plots reveals a clear progression in material culture, reflecting how different households adopted evolving funerary materials—from early white marble and tall spires to military tablets, polished granite dies, and cast metal markers:

1. The Bussard / Buzzard Family Plot

  • 19th-Century Marble Slabs: The earliest section of the plot features slender, upright white marble or limestone slabs with rounded arches for Martha Bussard (d. 1861), Henry Bussard (d. 1887), and Moses R. Bussard (d. 1892), exhibiting dark weathering and biological staining.
  • 20th-Century Architectural & Trade Monuments: The plot transitions into high-relief carved stones, such as Esta L. Buzzard's (1884–1938) multi-tiered column topped with a carved laurel wreath, and Rodney W. Buzzard's (1880–1972) granite marker featuring crossed timber saws.

2. The Pyles Family Plot

  • Soaring Monumental Geometry: Features a prominent multi-tiered obelisk erected for James Pyles (1817–1888) and Susan C. Pyles (1828–1914), creating a vertical focal point in the plot.
  • Infant Carved Reliefs: Contrasts with low upright marble markers, such as Baby Roy S. Pyles' (1890) headstone decorated with a carved mourning dove in high relief.

3. The Dean Family Plot

  • Victorian Spires & Multi-Tiered Dies: Displays a square spire with a pointed cap for infant Silas B. Dean (1891–1892), alongside a multi-tiered joint die block for David T. & Dana Belle Dean.
  • Modern Polished Granite: Later interments transition into smooth, light-pink polished granite double markers with inset flower vases, such as Alfred G. & Ina C. Dean's headstone.

4. The Underwood Family Plot

  • Standardized Military Slabs: Incorporates upright white marble government markers with carved Christian crosses for PFC Watson Sherwood Underwood Jr. and Sgt Ivan J. Underwood.
  • Horizontal Companion Dies: Uses dark grey and pink granite die blocks mounted on continuous bases for C. Clawson & Ethel E. Underwood, Oliver H. & Maude M. Underwood, and Denver Underwood.

5. The Sharp Family Plot

  • Evolution from Tablet to Custom Cut: Features early vertical marble markers for A. H. Sharp (1852–1902) alongside horizontal granite monuments for Andrew & Sarah A. Sharp.
  • Modern Scroll & Contour Work: Modern additions include Dolpha Yeager & Regenia Underwood Sharp's die with diagonal scroll lettering and Dharl L. Sr. & Ruth I. Sharp's stepped granite block.

6. Metal Funeral Home Markers Across Plots

  • Across several family rows, economical or temporary cast metal plaque markers set into concrete or ground mounts remain permanently preserved, including those for Wm. Dave Lester (1866–1930), Norman F. Wanless (1909–1963), Harvey L. Bond (1912–1968), and Harper Johnson (1884–1967).

Note: Because Beaver Creek Cem.pdf is currently the only active source selected in your notebook, this comparison focuses on the family plots within Beaver Creek Cemetery. If you would like to compare these markers against other remote high-country plots across Pocahontas County (such as Clawson, Baxter, or Burr), you can select those sources in your notebook panel.

The **Van Reenen family line** at **Beaver Creek Cemetery** reflects a mid-to-late 20th-century lineage marked by naval military service, personal loss, and local business leadership:

### **1. Naval Military Deployment**
* **Douglas Guy Van Reenen** (`July 19, 1950 – Nov. 22, 2004`): Served in the **US Navy during the Vietnam War** as an Operations Specialist 3rd Class (OS3) aboard the fast combat support ship ***USS Sacramento* (AOE-1)**. His final resting place is marked by a flat bronze government military plaque.

### **2. Household Elders**
* **Guy E. Van Reenen** (born `1924`) & **Amy J. Van Reenen** (`1913 – 1995`): Share a joint horizontal grey granite die block embellished with floral corner carvings and the **V.F.W.** emblem.

### **3. Childhood Tribute**
* **Cheryl Faye Van Reenen** (`Sept. 7, 1947 – Aug. 20, 1954`): Passed away just shy of her 7th birthday. She is commemorated by a custom upright heart-shaped headstone etched with the poignant epitaph: *"A little bud of love gone to bloom with God above"*.

### **4. Local Funeral Directing Legacy**
* The Van Reenen name also figures prominently in the cemetery's modern history through **Van Reenen Funeral Home**, whose cast metal temporary markers are found placed at several gravesites (such as those for Effie J. Christopher and Barbara McGlaughlin).

-----------------------------

An exploration of the military markers and service records across Beaver Creek Cemetery reveals a honored legacy of service, spanning World War I, World War II, the Vietnam War, and Cold War-era deployments:

1. World War II Veterans (1941–1945)

World War II service members at Beaver Creek represent specialized airborne infantry, naval ordnance, amphibious engineering, and technical support units:

  • PFC Waldo Noah Buzzard (Mar. 30, 1911 – Jan. 27, 2000): Born in Enid, Oklahoma, he served as a Private First Class in Company B, 326th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division. He is commemorated with both a flat bronze military plaque and an upright granite headstone.
  • S Sgt Sanford R. Simmons (June 14, 1916 – Dec. 6, 1963): Served as a Staff Sergeant in Company E, 592nd Engineer Boat & Shore Regiment (Virginia). His grave features an official flat government marker with a carved Christian cross.
  • GM 3 James Edward Buzzard (Feb. 22, 1927 – April 15, 1953): Gunner's Mate 3rd Class, US Naval Reserve (Michigan). Marked by a flat metal government military slab.
  • MAM 3 Otis S. Lester (Dec. 13, 1915 – Dec. 26, 1972): Served as a Mailman 3rd Class in the US Navy from West Virginia. His grave is marked by a polished bronze plaque set on granite.
  • Tec 5 Clarence Elbert Gaylor (June 5, 1917 – Apr. 2, 1988): Served as a Technician 5th Grade in the US Army. He rests behind a standard upright white marble military headstone.
  • Tec 5 Arley S. Coin (Feb. 5, 1915 – Jan. 7, 1956): Technician 5th Grade, US Army. Marked by an upright government marble tablet.

2. Vietnam War Combat & Deployment

The Vietnam War section of the cemetery includes direct cavalry combat casualties as well as naval operational deployments:

  • PFC Watson Sherwood Underwood Jr. (March 3, 1947 – April 2, 1968): Served in Company B, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. He lost his life during active combat in Vietnam at age 21. His grave is marked by an upright white marble military tablet adorned with a Christian cross emblem.
  • SSG Lowell T. Underwood (May 29, 1942 – May 1971): Staff Sergeant attached to RVN Training Center Detachment 3 in Vietnam. Marked with an upright government marble headstone.
  • OS3 Douglas Guy Van Reenen (July 19, 1950 – Nov. 22, 2004): Operations Specialist 3rd Class in the US Navy, serving aboard the fast combat support ship USS Sacramento (AOE-1). Commemorated by a flat bronze ground plaque.

3. Cold War & World War I Era Records

  • Sgt Ivan J. Underwood (August 18, 1938 – June 16, 1971): Sergeant in the US Army. Marked by an upright government marble tablet with a Christian cross.
  • Lake L. Alderman (Sept. 29, 1897 – June 20, 1918): Son of N. S. & A. J. Alderman, who passed away at age 20 during the height of World War I.

4. Material Evolution of Government Markers

The military graves at Beaver Creek showcase two main government marker styles:

  1. Upright White Marble Slabs: Issued primarily for Army service members (such as Watson Sherwood Underwood Jr., Lowell T. Underwood, Clarence Elbert Gaylor, and Ivan J. Underwood), featuring rounded tops, incised lettering, and Christian crosses in relief.
  2. Flat Bronze & Ground Markers: Issued for Navy and specialized Army personnel (such as Douglas Guy Van Reenen, Otis S. Lester, and Waldo N. Buzzard), flush-mounted into granite bases or ground slabs to prevent weathering.

🎖️ Would you like to generate a printable PDF honor roll portfolio detailing the military service records and grave photos across Beaver Creek Cemetery?

 











 


 

 


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Beaver Creek Cem Profile

  Based on the photo inventory records for Beaver Creek Cemetery ( Beaver Creek Cem.pdf ), here is the list of documented interments organi...

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