John Richard Perry Fox, Capt.
1 SC Cav, Co I

Direct Descendant of Compatriot Frank Smoak

Obituary taken from newspaper clipping

A very sad and an unexpected death occurred in Colleton County of a highly esteemed farmer, J.R.P. Fox, the supposition being that he died from some affliction of the heart.

Last Sunday he was out at the Baptist Church in good health, being a member of said church for the past fifty years, which he served with satisfaction to all. He was a devoted Christian from boyhood up, and deemed it a duty to be in God’s house whenever the opportunity in health permitted. He was baptized by the Rev. Mr. Fant at the age of 20 years. His great aim was as he usually said: “My greatest pleasure is to serve my God, for I know not what moment my master may call upon me.” He left a wife, six boys and two girls with a number of grandchildren to mourn his death, but very fortunately the boys are able to look after their father’s interest, three being married men and the others men capable of attending to most any required duty.

During this career in life he served in the legislature for 13 years from Colleton County and was always looked upon by his friends as a polished gentleman and one that could always be approached upon any subject with entire satisfaction.
He also served nearly the whole war period and noted by his friends as a brave commander. He was captain in Company I, Black’s regiment of South Carolina cavalry. He passed very successfully until the fight at Brand Station on the Rappahannock river, where he received a severe wound in the arm which nearly proved fatal, but with medical skill he was pulled through.

He was a successful farmer and a great cattle raiser. I often heard friends say it was a pleasure to be in his company.
This coming October he would have reached the three-score years and ten allotted for man. We mourn his sad death and his family have our deepest sympathy.

His friend

June 1, 1896
(newspaper unknown)