Obituary Record

DEATH OF MAYOR TOULME.

Peacefully Passes Away Into Eternal Slumber at a Late Hour Last Night.

Captain John V. Toulme, mayor of the city of Bay St. Louis, died last night shortly after 11 o'clock, surrounded by the immediate members of his family and a number of friends. The end was not unexpected. Ill since last fall, his condition the past few weeks was such as to give no encouragement to those dear to him who had hoped, despite his advanced age, that his marvelous vitality would admit restoration of health. Death, like the midnight messenger, came peacefully, almost unawares.

[image of MAYOR JOHN V. TOULME.]

John V. Toulme, son of Victoria Saucier and John B. Toulme, was born 74 years ago, at Bay St. Louis, on the place where today is located his late residence, and where he had always resided. He came from one of the best families that ever set foot on Hancock county soil. His parents were among the pioneer settlers of this place, locating early in the 20s.

Going first to local schools, the lad was sent to Kentucky at St. Mary's Catholic college where he received the advantages of a splendid education.

Seeing the vast possibilities of stock raising in this section, the young man was not slow in recognizing the success that would attend such pursuit, and, embarking in the industry, his attempt was not without fruit, but for years yielded him handsomely.

Before the civil war, during the 50s, he was elected treasurer of Hancock county, serving two consective terms of four years each. The war soon broke out about this time, and shouldering a musket, he joined the Third Mississippi, and was soon promoted to the office of captain. All through the magnificent battles of the proud and heroic South. Captain Toulme commanded his men gallantly and successfully, and was held in high favor and generally esteemed throughout military circles.

After the war Captain Toulme was elected a member of the county Board of Supervisors, and here to, he won much praise--always conservative, but never lethargic; active but cautious; always for the best interest of the majority.

As chief magistrate of the city of Bay St. Louis. Mayor Toulme had held that trust so frequently - always with satisfaction to his constituents - since 1872, when he succeeded the late J. H. Nicholson, that up to a short time before he was taken ill, when asked how many terms he had held was unable to recall the number. However, it was safe to say he held no less than eight terms. He always proved an exemplary mayor and in the municipal history had a record second to none. His administrations were always notable for improvements and at the same time paying off old obligations incurred when he was not in office.

Thrice married, his first wife was Miss Martha Carr, four children blessing this union, three of whom survive, namely. Messrs. Evariste D, and Robert W. Toulme, of this city, and Mrs. Lucy Mitchell. The second wife was Mrs. Woodward-Lizst, five children the fruition, three sons and two daughters. Mortimer. Horace and Maurice Toulme, and Misses Sylvia and Azalie Toulme. The surviving wife. Miss Theresa Shansy, is left with one son. John V. Toulme, aged two years. Besides other relatives, the deceased leaves in this city, a sister. Mrs. Madeline Breath.

Captain Toulme was a Mason the past fifty years, always a most active member, and at various times represented his lodge at State conventions.

The funeral will take place this evening at 5 o'clock, the remains to be interred in the family plot at St. Luke's cemetery.

Source: Sea Coast Echo 05-11-1901