J.S. McGee's Life Ended
Respected Pioneer Dies Suddenly at His Home

John S. McGee, pioneer of Inyo, ex-Sheriff, and ever a prominent citizen, passed to 
his last sleep Sunday night.  His demise was sudden indeed.  He had been around town 
that day, and different acquaintances mentioned how unusually well he appeared to be.  
He retired that evening, complaining a little of a stomach trouble which has 
afflicted him for a long time.  About 11 o'clock he arose to get something, and as 
he did so fell across the bed.  Mrs. McGee, frightened, called help as quickly as she 
could, but it was useless; life's thread had snapped where he fell.

John Simpson McGee was born in Texas August 23, 1846.  The family came to California 
at an early days, and were among those in Aurora in it's prime.  His brothers, older 
than himself, were among those who Indians in this valley, and it was not long before 
he also became a resident.  He was married March 27, 1870 to Miss Caroline Gunter, 
who after these years of happy wedlock is left to mourn him.  Their home was long on 
what is now the Longley property, in Pleasant Valley.

Mr. McGee was elected Sheriff in the election of 1884, serving one two-year term.  
After selling his Pleasant Valley property, some years ago, he and Mrs. McGee moved 
to San Mateo, expecting to remain, but the attractions of the valley they had left 
called them back, and since returning their home ahs been in this town.

The family name is synonymous here with fearlessness and integrity, and John McGee 
bore it worthily.  He was a good citizen whose word was equal to his bond, and whose 
character merited the esteem in which he was held.  In his sudden taking off all 
acquaintances extend sincerest condolences to those bereft.  Besides his wife, those 
nearest to him and surviving are two brothers, Alney L. and Bart McGee and sister, 
Mrs. Hockett of Tulare County.  There is a large circle of family connections, by 
consanguinity and marriage.

Mr. McGee had long been a member of the Masonic fraternity, and that order's rites 
attended the commitment of his body to earth Tuesday.  The Eastern Star, of which he 
was also a member, joined in the last tribute.

Before the long procession made its way to the cemetery, Rev. Dr. Van Deventer 
conducted an impressive service at the residence.

The Inyo Register, Bishop, Inyo County, California
Thursday, January 28, 1909
Transcribed by Pat Houser for Inyo County GenWeb, December 30, 2004