(Adapted from obituary in the Unionville Republican dated 6 Dec 1893 written by M Bratcher)

John Gaines Speak, a long respected citizen of Liberty Township, was born in the state of Kentucky, July 21st, 1822, the oldest of seven children born to Mary Polly Neff and Benjamin J Speak. He died in Putnam County Missouri, November 27th, 1893 aged 71 years, 4 months and 5 days.

John came to Ralls County Missouri with his parents in the year 1828. He subsequently married in Macon County on 3 Sep 1846 to Catherine Brown. With their union two children were born; George W and Benjamin Franklin. Sadly, his wife died 12 Aug 1854 followed by George in January 1855.

John then married Mary E Fifer 16 Sep 1855. Unto them was born one child; Marion Francis. Tragically, complications arose and his wife died post-birth in Nov 1856.

John’s third and final marriage was to Nancy D. Landrum on July 5th 1857. Unto them were born 11 children; Ann, Alfred Tobin, Fannie Lou, Ella D, Edward, Ida Jane, Bettie, Mary Neff, John David, Emma, and Pearl Carter. Two died in infancy and one in early manhood.

The subject of this sketch was converted and united with the Baptist church about 1847 and was a worthy member until 1869 when he moved to this county from Macon. After which time he joined the Cumberland Presbyterian church, of which he was a worth member at the time of his death. Father Speak was a kind husband, an affectionate father, a good neighbor. He leaves an aged companion, brothers, sister, children, grandchildren, and many friends to mourn their loss; but this loss is his eternal gain. His funeral discourse was preached by M. Bratcher at his home to a large and affectionate audience, November 28th. His remains were laid away in the Berry cemetery to await the summons from on high. May a kind providence smile upon his family.