The Montgomery advertiser., 1909-07-06


In his old home where he was born
and reared, Mr.. George Jordan Costen,
on June 16. 1903. laid down his pill
grims stan and entered that rest that
remaineth to the people of God"
More than two years ago a serious
illness gave warning Of the beginning
Of the end. All that love or skill could
do was done to restore him to health
and strength. HIS children left BUSH
ness and homes in distant States, to
help those already by his bedside, his
watched and worked and hoped. Never
did father have more considerate
care, but a recurrence of similar at
tacks, soon bowed the stalwart frame,
and conquered the tndomitable will He
became submissive and trustful as a
little child. In those last months of
faith and love and trust. to us who
loved him, there came a richer, fuller
meaning in those words of Jesus, "Of
such A the kingdom of heaven"
Mr.. Costen was born September g..
1870. In early life ne was married to
Miss Annie Smith, of Gates County.
This union was one of mutual love and
trust. Their home life was ideal, he
builded. she adorned, he was it's
strength. she its power. Every child
was given q loving welcome, and from
that home have gone out specimens of
sterling Christian manhood, types Of
sweet winsome womanhood who are
disseminating the wholesome influence
of that home to help uplift and bless
mankind.
He was a tender, thoughtful husband.
a kind and generous father. God pity
and comfort them all!
He was a good citizen. a helpful,
sympathetic neighbor. There never
came a call for help out he responded
Entirely forgetful OF himself, like his
Master. HE came not to be ministered
to, but to minister" HIS hospitality
was unbounded. not only those of his
own social circle found welcome be-
meath his roof, but many a weary, foot
sore traveller, whom the world would
hardly pause to consider, found rest
and comfort in his home. But best of
all, he was a Christian. He held his
membership at Damascus Church, was
q deacon in its communion, and until
his health failed, was Superintendent
OF the Sunday School. but his creed was
bread-all men were his brethren.
Mr.. Costen was an optimist, how
ever dark, a rainbow always spanned
his sky. Failure to him was but an
other word for effort, the song that
rang clear through all his life was,
God is in Heaven. all Is right with the
world"
He was a progressive man, new in
ventions, or discoveries never startled
him, but he was always ready to help
demonstrate their real worth.
1.-The elements were so mixed in him
That Nature might stand up
And say to all the world This was a
mani"
He was buried with Masonic honors
In sight of the old home. From their
far-away homes his boys came with
bleeding hearts, to mingle their tears
with mother and sisters over the pre-
cious dust. The large concourse of
people spoke eloquently of the love
they had for him, while the ministers
present spoke of their appreciation OF
his worth as a friend and Christian.
The strong, calm face. that look ed
so peaceful In death. sleeps under the
t1ower-covered mound. We will see
him again. his gong was
only a hand clasp-a sad good night
A step In the administration dreams
and light.
fading away of earth bright skies,
Then the light OF heaven on the dream
ing eyes.
Rest for the weary over the tide
On the shore that shines, on the other
side"
Mrs. S. l. Harrell.
sunbury, N. c.. July 1. 1909.