William J. Brown of Texas County, Missouri

William J. Brown was born in Wilson County, Tenn., December 2, 1842, and is a son of William R. and Elizabeth (Bevel) Brown, a short history of whom is given in the sketch of George W. Brown. William J. Brown resided with his mother until he joined the State Militia, but afterward went with his mother to Cole County, Mo., where he lived for some time, and after a short stop in Pettis County, returned to Texas County in the fall of 1870, where he has since made his home. About 1866 he was married to Sarah G. Thons, a daughter of R. G. Thons. She was born in Guilford County, N. C., April 14, 1845, and died in Texas County, Mo., December 17, 1876, having been a consistent member of the United Baptist Church for a number of years. Their children are as follows: George W., Jr., Lily Bell, F. R., Thomas Jerry and Mary Caroline. In 1877 he married Nancy Cox, who was born in Tennessee, and died in Texas County, Mo., April 5, 1883. She was also a member of the United Baptist Church, and was the mother of three children, two of whom are living, Jimmie and Cora Bell. Mr. Brown has been a farmer and stock raiser all his life, and as such has been very successful, and is now a member of the Agricultural Wheel. He is a member of the United Baptist Church, and is a liberal supporter of religious and educational institutions, and in his political views is a Democrat.