Jerome "Jerry" Noble

Mar 17, 1932 — Jul 20, 2026

Jerome “Jerry” Noble, 94 of Aledo, died Monday, July 20th at his home. Funeral services will be Thursday, July 30th at 4:00 PM at Speer Funeral Home, Aledo. Visitation will be one hour prior to services, beginning at 3:00 PM. Military Honors will be presented by the Aledo American Legion at the beginning of the services. Fellowship will follow the services at the Mercer County VFW. Private burial will be in Edgington Cemetery, Edgington, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the Mercer County VFW. 

Jerry was born on March 17, 1932, in Rock Island, Illinois. His parents were Roy & Belle (Edgar) Noble. Jerry was a graduate of the Joy High School. He served his country in the United States Army. He was previously married to Pauline Castle and Gail Crawford Dixon.

Jerry was a talented bulldozer operator, beginning in the military. He turned it into his career, owning his own excavating business. In his spare time, he could be found working on muzzle loading rifles, writing books about them or going to conventions for them. He especially enjoyed dressing in period clothing and competing in the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association shoots at Friendship, Indiana. He was the founding president of the Mississippi Valley Gun Collectors. He also had a passion for Blue Grass Music. Wherever he went he could find someone to pick with. Jerry played multiple instruments, including the guitar, mandolin, fiddle, harmonica and even enjoyed singing.

Jerry is survived by his children and spouses: Kathy & Rodger Whitehall, Kris & Dave Salmon, Kay Sell and David Noble; son-in-law, Curt Franks; his long-time companion, Mary Price and her family; stepdaughter Julie McNall (Tim) and stepson Randy Dixon (Juanita); half-brothers Jack Gilmore and Paul Gilmore; half-sister Wynne Gilmore; 14 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; both wives; daughter, Karole Franks; son-in-law, Danny Sell; sisters, Vella Gowdy and Vivian Huston, stepdaughter Stacey Mitchell, and half-brothers Glen Gilmore and Jim John.

Eternal rest grant unto Jerry O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Dennis Glazener

 

Builder

Collector

GGG Grandson of John Gillespie (1753-1822)

Teacher

Writer

Friend to many

It with great sadness that I announce the passing of my best friend and the brother I never had Dennis Glazener. Dennis passed peacefully this afternoon. He was a good man and will be missed by many. Bluelight

Eternal rest grant unto Dennis, O Lord, 

and let perpetual light shine upon him. 

May the souls of the faithful departed, 

through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Barbie Chambers Phillips

 
Eternal rest grant unto Barbie, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Hello everyone, this is Trint on behalf of Barbie. It is with a heavy heart that I tell you on November 3 while surrounded by her loved ones Barbie was embraced by Jesus and is now resting in her eternal home. Anyone who knows her knows how much she has fought to overcome everything she has faced and she did it with her faith, a smile, and never quit mentality. She has been the most loving and perfect wife and I am beyond blessed that God placed her by my side. Her parents and I are beyond heartbroken but know we will be reunited with her. To know her was to love her and she has touched so many people throughout her life. Her hope for everyone was that they have a relationship with Christ and she would encourage us to strengthen that during this time. We will hold a celebration of life soon and I will post those details here when the date and location are confirmed. I will be keeping her Facebook open and encourage anyone who wants to share stories and memories to please do so. Her parents and I appreciate everyone’s prayers and understanding as we navigate this difficult time.

Copy by Barbie's husband, Trint Phillips.

Steve Lott

Steve Reed Lott

August 11, 1954 - October 23, 2025

 Eternal rest grant unto Steve, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

We are sad to learn of the death of Steve Lott. He was always a joy to be around.

Retired Director of Golf and Head Women’s Golf Coach at Western Carolina University

Worked at Savannah River Plant

Antique Dealer

A memorial services will be held for Steve on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 at 2:00pm at Appalachian Funeral Services in Sylva. 

Painting by Bruce Horne for his friend and golfing buddy, Steve Lott.

Henry Bishop

We are sad to learn of the death of Henry Bishop. Henry was a long time collector and supporter of the Kentucky Rifle Association as well as contemporary makers.

Henry was seen at many shows with a KRA display.

His kindness, knowledge and friendship to many will be missed.

 Eternal rest grant unto Henry, O Lord, 

and let perpetual light shine upon him. 

May the souls of the faithful departed, 

through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Dr. Major McCollough

 Major Charles Ross McCollough

April 8, 1942 - May 10, 2025.

The family of Dr. Major Charles Ross McCollough of Chattanooga, TN and Chicora, PA sadly announces the passing of our husband, father, and friend on May 10, 2025 at the age of 83 following a brief illness.

Major was always kind and loving to his wife of 61 years, Janet Deets McCollough, ever supportive and inspiring to his son, Aaron. A gentleman, Major will be warmly remembered by those who crossed his path for his remarkable erudition and his quiet, dauntless determination.

As a young man, Major excelled in academic and athletic pursuits. He graduated summa cum laude from Grove City College in 1964 and then obtained his Masters' degree and Doctorate in Archeology at the University of Pennsylvania in 1971. He taught Archeology at Ohio State University, the University of Tennessee, and the University of the South. He also worked at TVA as an Archeologist and Cartographer.

His passion for and commitment to historical preservation led him, in the early 1980s, to undertake an effort that would occupy him until his final days: preservation and protection of Chattanooga's vast prehistoric and modern archeological resources, especially Moccasin Bend, Williams' Island, and Brown's Tavern. In the 1980s and early 1990s, the green and white "SAVE THE BEND" stickers were a common sight on Chattanooga bumpers, a campaign Major launched as a consciousness raising aspect of his broader scientific and political campaign to demonstrate the Bend's archeological value and to ensure its proper stewardship for future generations. These efforts were essential to Moccasin Bend's recognition as a National Historic Landmark and ultimately as a National Park.

In later years, Major's interest in history also led to an extensive interest in antiques, which he pursued with the same enthusiasm and intelligence that marked his academic and professional endeavors. He was, for example, an avid member of the Kentucky Rifle Association, a regular at KRA events, and a proud member of the KRA board.

He is survived by Janet, Aaron, and Suzanne Chapman, his daughter-in-law. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary McCollough Breen, and his parents Charles and Aleen McCollough.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Memorial Donations may be made in Major's name to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, 600 14th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005.

Arrangements are by Wann Funeral & Cremation Center at the foot of historic Lookout Mountain, St. Elmo. (423) 821-7551. Share your memories at wannfuneralhome.com

Eternal rest grant unto Major, O Lord, 

and let perpetual light shine upon him. 

May the souls of the faithful departed, 

through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Lori Horne

 Lori Horne, wife of contemporary craftsman Bruce Horne has passed away.

Bruce passed away in December 2021.

Eternal rest grant unto Lori, O Lord, 

and let perpetual light shine upon her. 

May the souls of the faithful departed, 

through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Burtis Franklin Hamrick Jr.

 

Burtis Franklin Hamrick Jr.

Burtis Franklin Hamrick Jr., 88, of Camby, passed away on Friday, December 13th, 2024. He was born on April 8th, 1936 in Montevallo, Alabama to his parents Burtis Franklin and Willie Dale (Dinkins) Hamrick Sr. He married the late Lynne Ellen (Wilson) Hamrick on April 19th, 1959.

Burtis is survived by his daughter, Diana Thompson (John) of Nineveh; his son, Brett Hamrick (Natalie) of Robbinsville, North Carolina; and four grandchildren: Alex Thompson of Indianapolis, Michael Thompson (Rebecca) of Twentynine Palms, California, Jordan Hamrick of Independence, Missouri, and Noah Hamrick of Overland, Kansas.

Burtis is preceded in death by both of his parents; his wife, Lynne Ellen Hamrick; and brother, Bill Fellows.

Burtis, a proud 1954 graduate of Ben Davis High School, pursued his passion for nature by earning a Bachelor's degree in Forestry from Purdue University. He served in the Army National Guard, demonstrating his commitment to his country. With dedication, Burtis became an Assistant State Forester for the Indiana DNR, Division of Forestry. His active involvement in organizations like Ducks Unlimited, the Kentucky Rifle Association, and the Indiana Antique Arms Collectors reflects his deep appreciation for the outdoors and historical preservation. He found joy in the richness of American history, the thrill of duck hunting, the beauty of antique firearms and powder horns, and the excitement of playing euchre. He was celebrated by many as an exceptionally independent and responsible man.

Family and friends may show their love and support from 12-1pm on Friday, December 27th at Jones Family Funeral and Cremation Service in Mooresville. A memorial service will be held at 1 pm following visitation at the funeral home. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Family Funeral and Cremation Service in Mooresville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Burtis' memory to Ducks Unlimited, One Waterfowl Way - Memphis, TN 38120 - 1-800-45-DUCKS, www.ducks.org

To send a condolence to the family or to share a story about Burtis, please visit: www.jonesfamilymortuary.com

Eternal rest grant unto Burt, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Jim Webb

 
Jim Webb and his wife, Susie Webb

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Webb. His passing is felt among everybody in the longrifle culture community.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends during this time.

 Eternal rest grant unto Jim, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Copy and photo from Contemporary Longrifle Association Facebook page.

Charlie Miller

 Eternal rest grant unto Charlie, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

William "Bill"'s Scurlock Obituary

Linda and Bill Scurlock

William Henry Scurlock (Bill, to everyone who knew him) passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2024, in Texarkana, TX. He was 65 years old.

Bill is survived by his wife Linda Cook Scurlock of Texarkana; his son Justin Scurlock and wife Lydia Wommack of Texarkana, Texas, and their two sons William Henry Scurlock and James Herman Scurlock; his son Jacob Scurlock and partner Caroline Caldwell of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and their son Odin Danner; his sister Lynn Book and her husband Michael Hicks of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; sister-in-law Kelly Scurlock and family, aunt Brenda Scurlock, and numerous cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents Oran H. Scurlock, Jr. and Frances Henry Scurlock and brother David O. Scurlock.

Bill was a lifelong resident of Texarkana, Texas. He was a business-owner, a booster of downtown Texarkana, a member of Westside Church of Christ, a hunter and outdoorsman, a founder of Muzzleloader Magazine, an historic reenactor, a lover of history, a Texas Longhorn fan, a brewer, a father, a grandfather, a husband, and a friend to many. 

As all who knew him can attest, Bill was honest, warm, and kind. He embraced every challenge head-on, never shirked a responsibility, and held his word to the highest standard. As a father, grandfather, and husband he was nurturing and dependable. Bill was lucky to have many life-long friends, and the durability and longevity of those relationships is a testament to his honesty and compassion.

Bill was a quiet, humble leader. As a founder of Muzzeloader Magazine and Scurlock Publishing, he was the calm, guiding force behind the company, and a leader within the worldwide reenacting community. In his most recent role as the owner, brewer, and manager of Pecan Point, Bill embraced being the public face of the business, greeting all with a warm smile and the familiar twinkle in his eye. No task at the restaurant was beneath him, and he sought to lead by example. 

Bill will be missed most by his family. The greatest pleasures in his life were the quiet walks through nature with Linda, time spent enjoying the company of his sons, singing with his sister, his grandchildren, his family, and friends around a campfire. 

A memorial celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Pecan Point, 213 Main Street, Texarkana TX 75503. All who knew him are welcome to attend.

Donations in memory of Bill may be made to Main Street Texarkana.

Bill Scurlock

Eternal rest grant unto Bill, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

It is with great sadness that I report the passing of Bill Scurlock, who ran Muzzleloader magazine for so many years! Bill and Linda and their boys were a part of the muzzloading world and personal friends that can never be replaced. To say he will be missed is simply not enough! God be with you Linda, Justin and Jacob!

Paul Jones, Contemporary Makers Facebook

Hello everyone, yesterday I received the incredibly sad news that Bill Scurlock passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Scurlock family. I've had the pleasure of calling Bill a friend since the late 1990s, he was a great man, a fantastic father to Justin and Jacob, and a wonderful husband to Linda. Bill's father Oran Scurlock founded MUZZLELOADER in 1974 with B.R. Hughes, Bill took the helm of the magazine in the early 80s. Bill made a huge impact on our sport and will be missed greatly.

This photo is of Oran and Bill in 1983.

Muzzleloader Magazine Facebook

Photograph from Muzzleloader Magazine Facebook page.

Edwin Louer

 Edwin Louer
January 30, 1938 ~ March 6, 2024 (age 86)

Antique firearms and Ohio land were passions of Edwin Louer who died March 6, 2024, at his Williamsport home in Ohio.

Edwin Mandel Louer was born January 30, 1938, in Evanston, Illinois, to the late Ellen Jones Bennett and Albert Emanuel Mandel Louer. Ed grew up on the North Shore of Chicago and graduated from Highland Park High School in 1956.

Following graduation, he drove west in an elderly pickup truck towing his horse to pursue his interest in Western history and culture at the University of Arizona in Tucson. After one semester Ed realized that his true desire was a hands-on education in how to be a modern cowboy. Subsequently, Ed left school to work on a cattle ranch in northern Arizona. It was there he learned the essential cowboy skills including riding, roping, branding cattle, mending fences, and tending to the herd. 

In 1960, he enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He was honorably discharged in 1961 and returned to Tucson where he lived until 1976. 

Ed then moved to Circleville, Ohio, to manage his mother's family farm in the Williamsport area which he did for more than fifty years. Beyond the farm and cowboy life, Ed's other passion was antique firearms as they were a gateway, embracing American history. Ed loved traveling to rodeos, and especially gun shows, throughout the country. He reached the pinnacle of his roping career by qualifying for the 1995 Senior National Team Roping finals in Guthrie, Oklahoma. In addition, he became a well-known and respected expert in American firearms and militaria. Along the way he made many lifelong friends who enjoyed his storytelling which never missed a detail.

Ed was a true patriot who revered those who fought for our great country and preserved our freedoms. 

Through all his adventures, Ed's favorite place was homeon his Ohio farm.

Ed is survived by his children: Juan Louer, Kathy Kimbrough (Jim), Tom Louer (Molly),  Brandi Fausnaugh (Scott), Kate Jackson (Jason), Nancy McCormack (Ian), and Jessi Louer, as well as twelve grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers: Roger Louer (Anita), St Helena, CA, and Albert Louer (Wendy Cooper), Kennett Square, PA.

A private memorial will be held at a later date.

David Rose

 David Rose, the husband of Jana House Rose, has passed. David was the 

son-in-law of Hershel House and is the father of Beth Ann Rose.

Eternal rest grant unto David, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Hershel House, David Rose, Beth Ann and Jana Rose

Funeral services will be Monday, March 18, 2024 at 11AM at Tucker Funeral Home in Central City with Bro. Connor Reed officiating. Burial in New Cypress. 

Visitation will be Sunday from 5-8PM at the funeral home. 

Online condolences may be made at www.tuckerfuneralhomes.com.

Eddie Louer

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edwin Louer. His passing is felt among everybody in the longrifle culture community.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends during this time.

(Pictured above: Gordon Barlow (left) and his long-time good friend, Edwin Louer (right).

Eternal rest grant unto Eddie, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Copy and photo per Gordon Barlow.

Hershel Carmen House

 
Eternal rest grant unto Hershel, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

VISITATION

Saturday
January 27, 2024
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM 

FUNERAL SERVICE

Saturday
January 27, 2024
4:00 PM  
Smith Funeral Home 
403 North Main St
Morgantown, KY 42261

Hershel Carmen House

Hershel Carmen House passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024 at the Ohio County Hospital in Hartford, Ky. surrounded by family and friends.  He was born July 4, 1941 to the late Euda and Coweta House in the bustling river community of Woodbury, Ky. At an early age, it was found that Hershel was not content with the ways of the quickly modernizing world; rather, he had an affection for the old and primitive ways of which this great Commonwealth was built. He would spend his formative years hunting, fishing, and camping along the banks of the Green River in homemade canoes in rural Butler County, Kentucky.  Hershel was preceded in death by his mother, father and sister Vivian.  He is survived by one daughter, Jana Rose and her husband David; one granddaughter, Beth Rose; one sister, Vickie House; two brothers, Frank House and his wife Lally and Johnny House; several nieces, nephews and friends.

It was noticed at a very young age that Hershel was a very talented and skilled craftsman. His ability to work in many artistic mediums flourished and would be the stepping-stones, for what would later become his prolific career in the traditional arts. Hershel served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps, where he was an ace shot on the rifle range and noted for topping his commanding officers. During his time in the military, he spent 16 months in Cuba on guard at Guantánamo Bay. There, he spent plenty of time drawing, scheming and plotting his life back home in Kentucky working with his hands.  

 
After a short stent in Louisville, Kentucky, Hershel headed home to Morgantown, Kentucky where, in 1965 he settled for nothing less than fulfilling a lifelong dream of setting up a shop and building true Kentucky longrifles full-time. In 1968, Hershel was gifted a lifelong love when his daughter, Jana was born. He would go on in the years to follow building a reputation of a fine craftsman, Renaissance man, and painter whose works were commissioned for early TV Pioneers, governors, and heads of state alike. In 1989, he became a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts and Humanities for his works on various historical projects, including the restoration of David Crockett’s personal rifle.    

Through the 2000’s, he never slowed down his craft and neither did his list of request for the hand forged knives and guns. Life was nearly cut short when he was diagnosed with cancer.  However, through his determination to carry on, he proudly beat cancer completely in 2009. 

 In his career, he taught thousands of anxious learners the craft; however, most of his students recall the very special bond they felt working beside him.  He was always kind and patient. His art took him all over the country and allowed him to meet and work with people from all walks of life, and that he was proud of.  His greatest legacy will always remain his willingness to share his artistic styles and processes now known as the “Woodbury School” with others.

The many who had the privilege of visiting his home and workshops could not help but be captivated by the world he had created to grow his craft. Many described it as walking back in time. Between reviving log cabins, restoring antique cars, building furniture, grinding cornmeal, hunting with his beloved dogs or going to the flea markets, not much grass could grow under Mr. House’s feet. 

To quote him; “I’ve had the great satisfaction of living my life exactly the way I’ve always wanted to live.” He will be greatly missed by family, friends and followers the world over.   Hershel really cherished the time he was able to spend with his daughter, Jana and his granddaughter, Beth on their many adventures.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 4:00pm at Smith Funeral Home with Bro. Raleigh Blancett officiating.  Visitation will be held on Friday, Jan. 26 from 1:00pm until 8:00pm and Saturday, Jan. 27 from 8:00am until 4:00pm at Smith Funeral Home.  Colonial period styles of dressing, as a tribute to Hershel, are encouraged by those who wish to do so.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the recently established Hershel House and the Woodbury School Foundation, Inc., which has been established to preserve his legacy and further his love of teaching others.  You can make this donation at Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 280, Morgantown, Ky.  42261.

A spring service is planned for April 2024 where his ashes will be interred into the Green River. 

VISITATION

Friday
January 26, 2024
1:00 PM to 8:00 PM 

Saturday
January 27, 2024
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM 

FUNERAL SERVICE

Saturday
January 27, 2024
4:00 PM  
Smith Funeral Home 
403 North Main St
Morgantown, KY 42261

Copy and photo from Smith Funeral Home here.

Hershel Carmen House

Hershel Carmen House

July 4, 1941 - January 9, 2024

"Hershel House is an incredible individual. Over the years he has been a driving force in the revival of the lost arts of old time gun making, blacksmithing and corn meal production. He work is known world wide. The pieces he produces look as though they originated in another time. Shooters all swear by the accuracy of a Hershel gun. Collectors eagerly seek out any available piece. His knives are seen everywhere. When Hershel arrives at a show he is immediately surrounded by a crowd. Everyone wants to speak with him. Visits to his home are like a trip back in time. His encouragement and sharing with other builders is legendary. I have taken great pleasure in collecting and shooting some wonderful pieces from his shop. Over the years Jan and I have enjoyed all our visits with Hershel and his daughter Jana Lee. Hershel is truly a treasure." 

Art Riser 

Contemporary Makers

Hershel made this fowling piece for my good friend Art Riser, who along with his wife Jan Riser and their friend Robert Weil created the Contemporary Makers Blog which quickly became the internet's home base of the contemporary longrifle culture. When I was working on the article, Art had offered a great string of quotes to be used. I had originally planned to use part of it in the caption with one of the photos, but when the photo became unavailable I unfortunately lost track of the quote and it didn't show up in the article. Art has been known for years as a collector of Hershel's art and my omission is most regrettable ! 

Jason W. Gatliff

Publisher

Source: Muzzleloader Facebook here.

July/August 2020