Charlotte SOUTER

Notes:

Her epitaph reads, "None knew thee but to love thee."

The following is from a Marion Co. (Fla.) newspaper Story:
Jacob and Charlotte Souter Leitner were pioneer residents of Marion Co.,Fla. They left their home in Columbia,S.C. on Dec-13,1855 for Florida with their nine children for what is now known as Anthony.

Mr. and Mrs.Leitner and the smaller children rode In a carriage, the older children in buggies, and wagons (covered) carried personal and household goods and the Leitner slaves. On the first day the caravan traveled only 15 miles and the entire trip took over four weeks.

Eight of the Leitner's nine children settled in and around Marion Co. One daughter,Susan Anne C.Leitner married Jefferson Lever of Columbia,S.C. and she returned there to live. . . .

Charlotte married Jacob LEITNER on 1 Nov 1834 in South Carolina. Jacob (son of Jacob LEITNER and Mary Eve GRADICK) was born on 5 Nov 1807; died on 20 Jul 1884; was buried in Anthony Cemetary, Anthony, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

George was 20 years old when he moved with his parents to Marion County, FL.

LEITNER, GEORGE WESLEY (2nd Lt.) enlisted 21 Apr.1862-Perry'a (formerly Marion) Light Artillery under Capt: John M. Martin at Camp Langford, Fla. On-last roll 11 May 186 5 Meridian, Miss. (surrendered 4 May 1865, Citronella, Ala.) (same as brother, John Daniel Leitner FPK) Leitner Legend has it that at one time George Wesley Leitner was with Lee's army and participated in the Battle of Gettysburg. He was selected by Lee as a top-soldier. (Told by great-grandson, David Ernest Leitner.) (Researched by Fannie Belle Priest Kipp from papers obtained from the Florida and South Carolina Archives and from stories told by relatives.)

George married Caroline Levina GEIGER on 31 May 1866. Caroline was born on 17 Oct 1846; died on 4 Feb 1926. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Capt. John D. Leitner of Leitner, Fla. died Saturday, April 13 1890 of throat trouble of which he had been an acute sufferer for four months. Capt. Leitner has been a citizen of Marion Co. for over 30 years, coming here from S.C. and was 53 years of age at the time of his demise. Capt. Leitner during the war was a member of Col. John W. Martin's Arty Co. and a more patient, courageous, obedient, faithful soldier never bore arms in any conflict. He was a most genial whole souled, and hospitable gentleman, who numbered his friends by the score. His virtues were many and faults few, trusting his noble example of mind and heart and citizenship many find in his sons, descendants worthy of so grand a sire.

LEITNER, JOHN DANIEL (Lt.) enlisted 12 Doe.1861 In Capt. Perry's (formerly Marion) Light Artillery at Fernandina, Fla. (He used his own horse) On last roll 11 May 1865,Meridian, Miss. (surrendered 4 May 1865, Citronella, Ala.)(same as brother George) (Researched by Fannie Belle Priest Kipp from papers obtained from the Florida and South Carolina Archives and from stories told by relatives.)

Family/Spouse: Irene GRINER. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Mary Ann GRINER on 26 Oct 1865. Mary (daughter of Martin GRINER and Sarah Jane ALDERMAN) was born on 5 Jan 1846 in Bulloch County, GA; died on 11 Aug 1885; was buried in Anthony Cemetery. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

At peace with her neighbors and God, her life was spent in duty to her family. Never did the mantle of motherhood fall upon more devoted shoulders than those of Mrs. Catherine M. F. Connell.

Family/Spouse: William A. FIFE. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Catherine married James R. CONNELL on 3 May 1870. James died in in Anthony, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Recalled by Fannie Priest Kipp--Sarah Leitner Priest took great joy in telling this story about her sister Susan Anne, her brother John and herself. "One day I had to strain the fresh milk so I yelled out, 'Oh, Susan Anne, where's the strainer rag?'

'On Brother John's sore leg', came the reply. I called back, 'Go! hurry, and give it a dip in the duck pond! I do abom-m-m-inate nast-i-ness!" Then came Grandma Sarah's laughter in her deep voice.

Family/Spouse: Jefferson J. LEVER. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

LEITNER, JAMES D. ((Pvt.) enlisted 4 May 1863 9th Fla. Infantry (formerly 6th Bat.-under Bird) Ocala, Fla.--wounded and hospitalized 24 Aug.1864-discharged 9th Apr.1865 at Appomattox Court House, Va. (with Lee's Army) applied for pension from Duval Co., Fla. in 1909-received pension of $100 per year. (Researched by Fannie Belle Priest Kipp from papers obtained from the Florida and South Carolina Archives and from stories told by relatives.)

Family/Spouse: Mary NEIL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Jennie MARTIN. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

When Sarah E.W. Leitner was packing to migrate to Florida with her parents she was told to take only the absolute essentials. 8 year old Sarah begged so hard to bring a little rose bush (everblooming Louis Phillippe) that she was allowed to "carry it all the way on my lap". As long as Sarah lived she had a bush of this rose (also known as the Carolina Rambler) in her yard. She rooted hers under an over-turned Mason fruit jar. --told to C. Patrick Priest.

Sarah E.W. Leitner Griner Priest demonstrated the Leitner determination when the nineteenth amendment went into effect Aug.18, 1920. The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex. Aged 73 at this time Sarah went to the polls at the first opportunity and consulted with no one as to the most desirable candidates. (Told by her son Clarence C. Priest as he neared his 95th birthday. That same day Papa recalled that his grandpa, Jacob Leitner, Jr. ((1807-1884)) would become so wrought-up when he prayed at family prayer time, he could be heard a quarter mile away. Fan Priest Kipp)

Family/Spouse: Nathaniel GRINER. Nathaniel (son of Martin GRINER and Sarah Jane ALDERMAN) was born on 23 Jun 1844; died in Sep 1867. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Christopher Columbus PRIEST. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Better known as Ophie. Came to FL with her parents in 1855/6.

At age 83 in an interview, Ophelia said: "The greatest mechanical invention during my lifetime has been the radio

Nancy married Alfred Daniel PROCTOR on 20 Oct 1874. Alfred (son of John D. PROCTOR and Martha Ann DILLON, Proctor) was born on 7 Nov 1853 in Little Rock, SC; died on 17 Dec 1917 in Summerfield, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

She was the first person buried in this cemetary.

Notes:

Buried on the Charlie Curry place between Shiloh and Wacahoota on State Road 320. This cemetary is now abandoned and the markers have been destroyed.

Dora married Daniel Remshart ZETROUER on 29 Jun 1898. Daniel was born on 21 Jan 1876; died on 16 Dec 1951; was buried in Shiloh Methodist Church Cemetary, Marion County, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Martha married Sandy Moss MCGEHEE on 4 Apr 1906. Sandy was born on 1 Apr 1864; died on 15 Sep 1937; was buried in Millwood Cemetary, Reddick, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Cornelius JONES. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Dillie August MCCULLOUGH. Dillie was born on 30 Aug 1885 in Chester, SC; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Benjamin married Mary Catherine CONNOR on 4 Jan 1911 in Preacher Cromer's home in Lexington, SC. Mary was born on 18 Aug 1879; died on 28 Feb 1969; was buried in Shiloh Methodist Church Cemetary, Marion County, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

George married Janie Margaret WYLIE on 26 Mar 1911. Janie was born on 21 Oct 1895; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Annie is said to have collapsed and died while walking. Her father died a month later. This was a sad time for Carrie and her remaining children. (Fan Priest Kipp)

Family/Spouse: Katie PINKLEY. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Bessie CANNON. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Alma LINDSAY. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Nora WAITES. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: James WELLS. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Ada BEDELL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Sam STILL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

First person buried in this family cemetery.

Family/Spouse: James SWAIN. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Mary HICKS. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: George KEENEY. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Cuthbert WALDREN. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ola died shortly after she married.

Family/Spouse: Tom NORTH. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Willie SHAW. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Charles MURPHY. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Bertie CASON. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Florence MILLIGAN. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

John was Zada's first cousin

Family/Spouse: Zada Ella PROCTOR. Zada (daughter of Alfred Daniel PROCTOR and Nancy Ophelia Madoria LEITNER) was born on 26 Sep 1885 in Twin to Ada; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

PRIEST, CLARENCE C. (Pvt.) enlisted 6 Aug.1898 3rd. Battalion. lst Volunteers Infantry Ocala, Fla. dismissed 27 Jan.1899 in Huntsville, Ala.

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

How Papa came to volunteer to fight in the Spanish-American War.
by Emily Priest Brockman

Papa and two of his brothers attended a party in Pedro, Fla. A recruiter for the Army was there and the three brothers promised to report to an office in Ocala the following morning. The next morning the two brothers "would have none of it" but Clarence was still determined to go. When he told his father of his intentions to join the army and asked if his brother, John, could use their buggy and the family mare "Old Bess" to drive him to Ocala (about 10 miles) his father, who had volunteered for the Civil War, said "No".

After Clarence retorted "I can walk it by 10 o'clock", his father, Lum, relented and John drove him to town. "Ma and sister Fannie followed me to the end of the family field crying their eyes out", Clarence said.

Notes:

Mr. Proctor (Jim) married Emma Jane Caruthers of Oxford in 1897 and moved to Summerfield. Their first home located on Highway 42 was up on a hill (Buck Mountain) To the northwest of where the home pictured is located.

Construction of this home was started in late 1800's, probably during the year of 1898. It was completed and occupied in or around 1902.

Grandpa cut the large pine trees from his property and hauled them to his father's sawmill in Pedro. They were cut in to lumber and he built this home. This home is located the corner of highway 42 and 470 Avenue in Summerfield.

Information from Ralph Dillon Hackett, their Grandson

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

TRIBUTE TO MOTHER AND DAD, by Louise Proctor Livingston
My Mother and Dad were exceptional people, I think. When they were first married my Dad worked away from home long hours, for $1 a day. After the first year he built a house, doing most of the work himself, even splitting the shingles for the roof and cutting the logs and carrying [them] to his Dads mill for sawing. Dad worked at a mill near the house some. One day, when he was there, the mill blew up and injured many. He felt very fortunate to have missed the disaster. He and Mother -Lived together in this house for the next, 67 years. My Mother was ninety-two in Aug 1971 and still lives in this house. They had one child before building (born at another place) then 7 in this house and numerous grandchildren. There has been only 1 death in this house; the third child, Carl, age four.

Back in early times farmers let their hogs and cows graze on open range identifying by marks and brands. Land was cleared partly by slave labor before the Civil War.

I remember Dad going out at daybreak and working until sundown, just taking time to eat at noon and a short rest. He grew corn and always took some to the mill for our own use. That was the BEST meal and grits. He made syrup grinding his own cane and again using the mule at the mill. We had sweet potatoes and all vegetables. He grew tomatoes and melons, also cantalopes [sic] for trucks. He never owned a tractor. He did most of his cattle tending on horseback but did own a jeep the last few years. He was active up until 77 years old.

Mother was always busy about the house and garden. She cooked big meals daily and of course canned fruits and vegetables. We had our own hogs and worked our own meats, sausage, etc. She taught me to cook, can, and sew and we made all of our clothes. Aside from raising her own children, she has helped with grandchildren and we had company continually. It seemed she never tired. I've heard her tell of the times when she had many small children, about rocking the cradle with one foot, while ironing, sewing or cooking.

My deepest love and appreciation to them for their faithfulness and devotion.

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

From the "History of the First Baptist Church, Summerfield, FL,":

When J.D., called Mr. Jim by his friends, and Emma married they first lived near Pedro. Early in 1900 they built a house on Cemetery Road near the corner of what is now 47th Ave. and Hwy 42. The house continues to be in the family. Like so many of his kin and friends, J.D. was primarily a farmer and cattleman.

According to records the church letters of J.D. and Emma and daughters Alma and Edith were received by our church from Pedro on Christmas Day, 1924. They had been in their home on Cemetery Road nearly a quarter of a century. The Pedro and Summerfield churches are about the same distance from this house. No reason is known as to why they changed churches. But thank the Lord for it because of the contributions in service made not only by J.D. and Emma but their descendants as well.

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

James Proctor bid on the job of taking children from Summerfield to the schoolhouse, and was hired in 1920. He purchased an open air Ford bus with canvas awnings. His daughter Edith drove the first year, and his daughter Ruth drove for the next three years.

James married Emma Jane CARUTHERS on 20 Oct 1898. Emma (daughter of Preston CARUTHERS and Marion Tibitha PERRY) was born on 19 Aug 1879; died on 14 Apr 1972 in Summerfield, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

George married Lula Florence LUCIUS on 24 Jul 1898. Lula was born on 18 Oct 1879 in Picioli Island, FL; died in Apr 1957. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Served on the Sumter Electric Coop board of directors
Democrat

Katie and Will ran off and married because the bride's parents did not approve. Will and Katie met while his brother George and her cousin Florence Lucius were courting. After their marriage, both couples lived together for a time in a house where the Carl Perry dairy is now located in Pedro. Later Will acquired the property but it has now passed into other hands. -- Comment from Gerry G. Proctor

William married Catherine Amanda LUCIUS on 10 May 1900. Catherine (daughter of Joseph LUCIUS and Cora Isabelle MCGAHAGIN) was born on 1 Dec 1879; died on 3 May 1956; was buried in Belleview Cemetary, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Member of Ocala Eastern Star

Mollie married Willy Sims PERRY on 19 Nov 1899. Willy (son of Jacob PERRY and Bettie CAUTHEN) was born on 19 Sep 1881 in Oxford, FL; died on 11 Nov 1918; was buried in Pine Level Cemetary, Oxford, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Robert SHAW. Robert was born on 1 Jan 1884; died on 29 Apr 1954. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Charlotte married Henry PROCTOR on 24 Dec 1899. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Zada was Charley's darling for the few years that he lived after their marriage. (He was a widower with no children.) He bought Zada a new car which she learned to drive at a driver's school and they enjoyed life going fishing at "The Little Bridge" at New Smyrna Beach and visiting relatives.

Aunt Zada symbolizes the hard working, little money, proudness, fidelity, and courteousness of most of our old timers. She worked in the fields; scrimped in the kitchen; made every relative "feel at home"; saw her husband die of cancer; nursed her bedridden father-in-law; married a second time; learned to drive a car when well past middle-age; lost a beloved great grandchild to brain tumor; turned to her other great grandchildren for comfort; never drank, smoked, or cursed; still scrappy--if you think-that I admire this little 86 year-old bundle of energy--then you're right!

Fannie Priest Kipp

Family/Spouse: Charlie LORD. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: John Nathaniel PRIEST. John (son of Christopher Columbus PRIEST and Sarah Elizabeth Waring LEITNER) was born on 23 Aug 1874; died in 1938. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Jean MCBRIDE. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: WINIFRED. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Thomas married Edna Ethel BECK on 5 Jun 1917. Edna was born on 8 Mar 1899; died on 9 Dec 1931 in El Paso, TX. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

30-year-old Cousin Sue had more than her share of troubles in 1920--daughter Nancy was born in Feb.; her husband died in Aug. and Nancy died in Dec.

A TRIBUTE TO SUE PROCTOR CONNELL

Cousin Sue has always been a part of my life. Since my earliest recollection I have basked in her sweet smile and even sweeter voice. She visited often with a very favorite Aunt, Zada Proctor Priest, way out in the country near Anthony, Fla.
Later we would visit her In Ocala where I became aware that she was a very inspired seamstress, "My hands fairly 'itch' to get back to sewing when I've been away from it for a while", she said.
This accomplishment impressed me greatly because fine sewing was impossible for me and having to please the fickle public seemed highly unlikely (can you Imagine sewing a party dress or a wedding gown?)
I doubt that Sue has missed many Leitner-Proctor reunions in the many years of it's existence. Her 81 years rest lightly Upon her shoulders and we wish for her many, many more. Her appreciative first cousin (once removed)
Fannie Belle Priest Kipp

Susan married Thurman Cooper CONNELL on 24 Nov 1906. Thurman (son of Henry CONNELL) was born on 5 Mar 1888 in Bushnell, FL; died on 30 Jul 1920. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Suela PIERSON. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Ruby BRADSHAW. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Caleb R. STUART. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Albert married Mary Louise SMOAK on 28 Nov 1925. Mary (daughter of Cary C. SMOAK and Voila Stanton CHITTY) was born on 12 Nov 1904. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

From the Ocala Star Banner 19 January 2005

Eula Zetrouer McInnis, 101

SHILOH - Eula Zetrouer McInnis, 101, a retired school teacher, died Monday, Jan. 17, 2005, at Shands at AGH in Gainesville. A native of Micanopy, she was a lifelong resident of North Central Florida. Mrs. McInnis was a graduate of Florida State College for Women, a 50-year member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society, and a member of First Baptist Church of Gainesville. Survivors include her daughters, Miriam M. Kimball, Shiloh, and Marjorie E. Pitts, Washington, D.C.; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sam W. McInnis. Milam Funeral and Cremation Services, Gainesville, provided information. Arrangements by Milam Funeral Home.

From the Ocala Star Banner 20 January 2005

McInnis, Eula Zetrouer:

Funeral services for Mrs. McInnes, age 101, 6th Grade teacher at J. J. Finley Elementary School in Gainesville from it's opening in 1939 until her retirement in 1968, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, January 21, 2005 at Milam Funeral Home Chapel, 311 South Main Street Gainesville, FL with Dr. John Fairless officiating under the direction of Milan Funeral & Cremation Services. Burial will be in Shiloh Cemetery Micanopy, FL. She is survived by two daughters, Miriam M. Kimball, Shiloh community, and Marjorie E. Pitts, Washington DC and three granddaughters: Renee Andrews, Shiloh community, Kathleen Senehi, Bethesda, Maryland, and Samantha I. Pitts, San Francisco, California and four great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Sam W. McInnes, a mathematic professor at the University of Florida. Visitation is Thursday, 5-7 PM at Milan Funeral Home, Memorials may be made to either the First Baptist Church, 425 W. University Ave., Gainesville FL 32601 or to Shiloh Cemetery Association, 10560 NW Hwy 320, Micanopy, FL 32667

Eula married Sam W. MCINNIS on 6 Aug 1924. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Mattie Lorraine KNIGHT. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Carolyn married Lawrence Allandale JENSEN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Georgia Bell TEALY. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Chester married Clora Estelle GORAY [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Joe HADSOCK. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Vernon B. HADSOCK. Vernon was born in Sep 1865; died on 27 Jan 1967. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Elmo BOLES. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Loonis Horace GRANT. Loonis died on 27 Mar 1971. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Percy L. BECK. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Juanita Ruby JENNINGS. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Henry Mack WHITWORTH. Henry was born in in Perry, GA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Samuel BATTS. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: James Lowell HOOVER. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Stanley DUNKER. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Attended Florida Southern College and enjoyed growing flowers.

KATHLEEN by Fannie Priest Kipp

I first met Kathleen in 1945 when Earl and I (with dau. Flora and son Robert) moved to Orlando. Both of our husbands were in the Public School business and both of us were raised on Central Fla. truck farms, so we became true and fast friends from the very start until that friendship ended with the premature death of Kathleen due to a circulatory difficulty.

Early In 1951, Kathleen and I decided it was high time the Brandchildren of Charlotte (Souter) and Jacob Leitner renewed acquaintances since all of these first cousins were getting along in years. Our love for her Dad, Benjamin Franklin Leitner and my Dad, Clarence Columbus Priest prompted us to take immediate action so the first Leitner Reunion at Juniper Springs, 20 May 1951 was the result. She and I were always pleased with the results.

Alma married Carroll Boyd TERRY on 12 Jun 1935. Carroll was born on 24 Jan 1908. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Caro married John Joseph HARE [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mary married Harvey Hardin YAWN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Franklin Ernest Leitner was born at home in Geiger Precinct, in Northwest Marion County to Benjamin Franklin and Mary Catherine Conner Leitner on 22 January 1917. He was their youngest child and only son. Welcoming their new baby brother was Alma Kathleen, Caro Elizabeth and Mary Bernice who was the first one to arrive that day.

The twins grew up in a farming community of Shiloh. The area that would eventually become Shiloh was first visited by members of Geiger family as early as the mid-1830s and became the home of his Great Grandmother Mary Nunnemaker Geiger and her children in the mid-1800s. The pioneering spirit was common in the family as his Great Grandparents Jacob and Charlotte Souter Leitner came to Florida in the 1850s and settled in the area that became the town of Anthony.

Ernest at the age of four started school at Shiloh and this two-room school house still stands just west of the Shiloh Cemetery. He then attended the McIntosh School and graduated from Reddick High School Class of 1936. All of his children and grandchildren attended and graduated from the same school that he did which had become North Marion High School.

Giving back to the community has always been a big part of his life. At the age of 17 he learned how to play the piano under Miss Lois Dickson of McIntosh who also taught his children and many of his nieces and nephews. After one year of lessons, he because the pianist and later organist for the Shiloh Methodist Church which was founded in 1880 by his Great-Grandmother Geiger and other family members where he was a life-long member. For over 60 years he was most always sitting at the keyboard of the piano or organ every Sunday Morning. He also served as a Church Trustee. He was in charge of the Shiloh Cemetery for many, many years but as his health declined he turned his duties over reluctantly to his youngest daughter to carry on the tradition of looking over the past generations and our family heritage.

His passion for plants and flowers, especially camellias continued throughout his life. Through the years he and his family have collected over 500 different camellia varieties and species. His philosophy was: if the plant had a bloom it was allowed to live and thrive. He was the happiest when he was working with his plants and he enjoyed them the most when he was able to share the blossoms with others to enjoy. He was also a collector especially of music and books on all subjects.

During World War II, he served his country as did many of his ancestors prior to and after him in every war and conflict since the American Revolution and just recently his Grandson Mark. His tour with the US Army's 681st Ordnance Ammunition Company took him to Italy and North Africa. While in Italy he rung the bells in the Leaning Tower of Pisa and met Pope Pius XVI.

On 20 July 1947 in the Flemington Baptist Church he married Esther Smoak in the church that her Grandfather Smoak helped establish and on the Wedding Anniversary of her Grandparents Hornbeak. His 10 year old niece Inez played the Wedding March. After a honeymoon to St. Augustine they moved into their home in Shiloh next door to his parents. They had three children: Nancy, David Ernest, and Annabelle. This year they quietly celebrated their 56th anniversary.

Throughout the years Ernest farmed and sharecropped raising primarily vegetables. He also worked as a Clerk at the Zetrouer Cash Store and later at Sperry Rand Corporation and Florida Farm Bureau State Headquarters, retiring from both as the Print Shop Manager. He served for many years as the Deputy for Flemington-Shiloh Voting Precinct for the Marion County Supervisor of Elections Office.

As the years passed Ernest continued his work for the church and was most often seen by those who passed by working with his plants and flowers until he was no longer able to do so. He was always there to watch over his Grandchildren, Jennifer, Mark and Robert as they where growing up and helping them with their 4-H garden and sheep projects.

Saturday, 16 August 2003 at his home in Shiloh which was originally the home of his Great Uncle David Luther Geiger, saw the end of an era, leaving behind the present and future generations of his family to carry on his legacy of community service, love of plants, the working of the land and family.

Ernest is survived by his wife of 56 years, Esther Smoak Leitner. His two daughters, Nancy Leitner and Annabelle Leitner. His Grand-daughter Jennifer Leitner Perry and her husband Jason Perry, and two Grandsons John Mark Leitner and Robert Ernest Leitner. His sister: Caro Leitner Hare and twin sister, Bernice Leitner Yawn. Nieces and Nephews: John and Naomi Baird Hare, Dick and Inez Hare Crowley, Leverne and Margaret Nichols Terry, Elmer and Judy Trahan Yawn, Anthony and Clara Nell Yawn Clegorne, Mary Beth Yawn, Bob and Georgia Faye Smoak Morrison, Chuck and Lauren Cornwell Smoak. First Cousins: Eula Zetrouer McInnis, Annie Leitner Grant, Josie Leitner Dunker, Louise Leitner Harris, Eloise Conner Corley, Ruby Conner Sox, Doris Conner Corley, Edgar Conner and James C. Geiger. His constant companions, the Grandfurs: Bartholomew, Sebastian, Alexander, Andrew Jackson and Snowball. Along with numerous Great and Great-Great Nieces and Nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his son David Ernest Leitner (9 November 1991), his oldest sister Alma Kathleen Leitner Terry (18 December 1960), his parents Mary Catherine Conner Leitner (28 February 1969) and Benjamin Franklin Leitner (7 September 1976) and a niece Christian Dianne Smoak (13 September 1985).

Franklin married Esther Lorene SMOAK [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

George married Julia Mae WILLIAMS [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Louise married L. Vernon HARRIS [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Thelma Mae SCROGGIE on 16 Jun 1925. Thelma was born on 16 Jul 1907; died in 1954. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

James married Betty Rae PERSON on 16 Sep 1917, and was divorced in Divorce. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

James married Leila Mae SHERWOOD [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Deacon and Sunday School Superintendent

Lloyd married Hazel Annie LANIER on 2 Nov 1918. Hazel (daughter of James Henry LANIER and Frances Lee ODOM) was born on 2 Sep 1900; died on 16 Jun 1966. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Democrat--Precinct committee woman for 20 years
WMU President and Sunday School Teacher

Edith married Thomas Odell SMITH on 29 Jan 1930 in James D. Proctor's house in Summerfield, FL. Thomas (son of Thomas Mackland SMITH and Janie Elisa MILLER) was born on 15 Feb 1903 in Conway, SC; died on 9 Aug 1982 in Summerfield, FL; was buried in Crum Cemetery, Summerfield, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

WMU President
Sunday School Primary Superintendent for 35 years

From the "History of the First Baptist Church, Summerfield, FL":
The next daughter of J.D. and Emma was Ruth. Ruth married Ralph Cox, a Baptist deacon, and they were living in Ft. Meade, Florida prior to Ruth's parents joining our church. Several years after retirement, the Coxes moved to a home almost in the backyard of the original Proctor home. It was true happiness for Ruth to be back near her sisters who visited together very often and were in the same church each Sunday usually on the same pew.

Annie married Ralph Henry COX on 12 Jul 1924. Ralph (son of Alexander COX and Annie Lou LANGSTON) was born on 21 Jun 1898 in Sopchoppy, FL; died on 10 Jun 1986. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Alma and Ralph fell in love when he came to Florida with his parents because of his mothers's health. After his mother died, Ralph moved away with his family. Alma and Ralph corresponded, and Alma eventually convinced Ralph to return to Florida. Donna Hackett has copies of some of Alma's love letters to Ralph.

Alma died ten days after giving birth to their fifth child. After Linda's birth, doctors performed a hysterectomy and an appendectomy. Neither surgery was required for medical reasons. The surgeon apparently perforated her intestine during the operation, and Alma developed peritonitis, an inflammation of the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and the abdominal organs. Alma died a very painful death. Penicillin, an antibiotic that could have saved Alma's life, did not become widely available until a few years after her death.

Alma married Ralph Charles HACKETT on 16 Oct 1929. Ralph (son of Ralph Seth HACKETT and Bessie Jane MATHER) was born on 30 Apr 1909 in Birmingham, Alabama; died on 1 Jun 1979 in Orlando, Florida. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Family genealogist
Sunday School Teacher, pianist and WMU President
Democrat

From the "History of the First Baptist Church, Summerfield, FL":
Louise Livingston was baptized along with Marie. She is an excellent musician, played the piano in church, Bible School and revivals from her early teens until she married and left in 1938. In Orlando she continued playing for church and weddings or any occasion calling for an accomplished organist or pianist. Since the passing of her husband, Luther Livingston, she lives in a home near the front yard of the Proctor home place.

Donnie married Henry Luther LIVINGSTON on 6 Jun 1938. Henry (son of Wiley Richard LIVINGSTON and Martha Jane COWART) was born on 6 Sep 1906 in Brewster, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Angie Marie Mills, 99, passed away December 6, 2017. Born on June 16, 1918 in Summerfield, FL to James D. and Emma C. Proctor. Marie lived in Summerfield all of her life and was a dedicated wife, mother, and friend. Marie was an active member of the First Baptist Church, Summerfield for many years. She served the Lord including being in charge of the nursery and Cradle Roll, visitation, teaching Sunday School, sunbeams and active in WMU.
She raised beef cattle although, she loved them as if they were her pets. She loved to garden and can vegetables, make jellies and bake. She was an accomplished seamtress.

Angie married Thornton Bothwell MILLS on 30 Jul 1933. Thornton (son of William Benjamin MILLS and Florence Gertrude ALLEN) was born on 17 Sep 1906 in Suawanee County, FL; died on 23 May 1976; was buried in Crum Cemetery, Summerfield, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Caterer, family genealogist, and member of the DAR Winter Park Chapter. (joined Capt. Luke Whitfield on her maternal line)

Pearl married Ray Allen TROVILLION on 27 Jul 1922. Ray (son of Jerry Allen TROVILLION and Mary Carolin COMPTON) was born on 14 May 1892; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Edna Bea CRABTREE. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Juanita BLANTON. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Lorimer married Frances MCINTYRE on 5 Aug 1933. Frances was born on 29 Aug 1904. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Achsah married Nathan Hunter SWICKLAND [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Lula married Richard Calhoun HILTON [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Hugh Fred DIETRICH. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

An excerpt from his obituary reads, " ... during the short six years and a half of his life he had so greatly endeared himself to us that we all felt he was our favorite, but the jewel God had loaned us for a season was too precious for this world's cares ..." From Gerry Green Proctor

Notes:

Hobbies were carpentry, gardening and fishing

William married Alice Pearl HAGAN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Charlie married Mary Estelle WATSON on 25 Mar 1945. Mary (daughter of Robert L. WATSON) was born on 1 Aug 1922 in Adel, GA; died on 12 Apr 1966. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

James Leitner Proctor, after high school graduation, went to Colo. in 1934. Here he did some gold mining then was stationed at Manitou Springs., Colo. with the CCC. James Married Geraldine Green while in this area. They then made a number of moves-- Archer, Fla.; Newport News, Va.; Wichita, Kan.--they remained in Wichita for 16 years. (James with Cudahy Packing Co., Gerry with Wichita Public library) then in 1966 they moved to the old Proctor home Summerfield.

James married Geraldine Mary Garnett GREEN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Cora married Ernest Howard MOORE [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Kathryn married Norman Beverly BROWN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Zada married Robert Gordon ESTES [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Emma Lititia BROWN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Hoyal Lynwood PRIEST. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Martha married Robert Aaron GODWIN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Edwin married Mary Louise ESPELITE [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Tribute to Esther Perry Averitte by an admiring second cousin--Fannie Belle Priest Kipp

Esther is a nurse and was a hard working one a few years back. When time for our family reunion rolled around she arranged to get a couple of hours off to join us at the American Legion Home on Lake Weir. She would show up in her working uniform--always with a big smile and a warm handshake. After some persuasion she would agree to MC our doings--when she would throw her arms wide and say,

"WELCOME COUSINS"

a tingle would go up the spine and you very well knew the mood was set for a close fellowship with kinfolks you hadn't seen for a year and for meeting new relatives many of whom you had never seen before. Sometimes Esther would carry her hospitality a step further and have the reunion at her lovely home. Best wishes, Esther, for good health and for more years visiting with us at the REUNION.

Esther married John L. AVERITTE on 25 May 1919. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Fred married Minnie Mae PORTER on 24 Oct 1929 in Akron, OH. Minnie (daughter of Charlie H. PORTER and Lizzie CROFTON) was born on 3 Sep 1908 in Hinson's Cross Roads, FL; died on 8 Jul 1965; was buried in Forest Lawn Cemetary, Ocala, FL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: WALDREP. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Betty married Gelon L. BARNES on 17 May 1923. Gelon died on 18 Dec 1951. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Ophelia married Gordon LISK [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Lottie married Oliva SWEARINGEN [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Ernest PRUITT. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Eloise married Roscoe JONES [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Robert married Evelyn JONES [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Tommy married Virginia BIGGS [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Tommy married Thelma DAVISON [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

George married Nina SECKINGER in Dec 1921. Nina was born on 10 Apr 1899. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Thomas married Sandra Jean DAHARAH [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Mary married Edward Lee CUPP [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Helen married Raymond Holman JOHNSON [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Rita. Rita was born on 29 Sep 1901. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Lois FRETWELL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Mary Elizabeth GARVIN. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Thurman married Mary Lilly WESTER [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Owned Santa Maria restaurant in St. Augustine, FL
Member of the Elks

Family/Spouse: Marguerite SANGEREA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: ELKINS. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Murry and Morris were twins

Notes:

Murry and Morris were twins. Morris died at 9 months of age.

Notes:

Only lived one year.

Glen married Naomi Grace SCARBOROUGH [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Jessie BOWEN. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]