1892 Biography - J. W. Womble

Among the representative, thoroughgoing and efficient officials of Franklin parish, La., there is probably no one more deserving of mention than J. W. Womble, parish sheriff, for his residence within its borders has extended over almost the entire period of his life. He was born in Franklin parish on September 17, 1851, the eldest of seven children born to Henry and Eliza Ann (Osborn) Womble, the former of whom was born in Virginia and the latter in Franklin parish, La. Henry Womble grew to manhood in the Old Dominion, and in that state he received a good practical education. Upon attaining manhood he immigrated to Louisiana, and in 1857 settled in Franklin parish, where he at once began tilling the soil. In 1850 he was married here to Miss Eliza Ann Osborn, a daughter of J. W. Osborn, who was among the first settlers of the parish. To Mr. and Mrs. Womble five sons and two daughters have been born, the following of whom are living: William E., Henry H., J. W., and Mary E. (wife of R. M. Ward.) The father of these children died in February, 1865, his widow surviving him until 1884, when she, too, was called from life. At the age of twenty-two years J. W. Womble began the battle of life for himself as a school teacher, a calling he continued with success for three years, after which he was elected deputy sheriff of Franklin parish, filling the position during 1875. In November of the following year he was elected to the position of sheriff, to which office he has been successively elected ever since, and it can with truth be said that he has made a beau ideal public officer, for he is faithful, punctual and upright, and is possessed of undaunted courage. By industry and perseverance he has become the owner of 2,000 acres of land, of which about fifty acres are under cultivation. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has been a liberal contributor to churches, in fact all enterprises of a worthy nature receive his patronage. He is a member of the American Legion of Honor, and not only as an official, but also as a useful citizen he commands the respect and esteem of his acquaintances. In February, he was married to Miss Lallu Buie, a daughter of Judge Duncan Buie, of Winnsboro, La. To their union have been born the following children: Buie, Mamie, John O, Jesse W., Duncan (deceased) and a child that died in infancy.

Contributed 2021 Nov 04 by Mike Miller, from Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Louisiana, published in 1892, volume 2, pages 463-464.