James Connell's Last Will and Testament can be found in Robertson County, Tennessee 
Archives in Will Book 5, page 175-176. 
Transcribed to the best of my ability. Julie (Bradford) Lusby



James Connell was married to Sarah “Granny” (?) Connell. They were the parents of 
7 children. One being Sarah Ann “Sally” who married Joseph James SR. Chambliss. 
Joseph Sr. and Sally were the parents of Wiley Dawson and Joseph James, Jr. Chambliss. 
Sally was remarried after Joseph SR.’s death to Jesse Morton Clark on June 15, 1850 in 
Roberston Co., TN. The Chambliss’ and Clark’s came to Jefferson County, Illinois from 
Robertson County, Tennessee in mid 1850’s. 

James Connell's Last Will and Testament:

"In the name of God Amen

I James Connell of the County of Robertson & State of Tennessee being poorly in body 
but of perfect mind and memory do ordain this my last will and testament revoking all others - 

Item 1st I bequest that my body be decently buried & my soul I recommend to God in sure 
trust of a glorious resurrection at the coming of Jesus Christ.

Item 2nd I wish my executors who shall be hereafter named to pay all just debts that 
I may be owing at my decease out of the funds that may then be on hand & should there 
not be funds sufficient to pay the debts that I may be owing to dispose of property 
enough at their own discretion to raise funds & to pay the debts as soon as the circumstances 
of the case may require.

Item 3rd The balance of my estate including every article I may die in possession of both real 
and personal I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Sarah Connell during her natural life or 
widowhood or till Sally Ann Conell comes of age or marries and then for everything real and 
personal to be sold at the discretion of my executors and equally divided bewteen Sarah Connell 
(my wife), John T Connell, George W. Connell, Elizabeth Jane Connell, Lucritia Connell, James W. 
Connell, William A. Connell and Sally Ann Connell, my children.

Item 4th It is my will & desire that my friend Gray Williams and Christopher Williams this my 
last will and testament - 

In testimony whereof I have ---- set my hand and seal this 14th day of January 1826.

James Connell (seal)

In presence of

Elisha Bellamy

Milly A. Clark

Gray Williams

Robertson County Court February Term 1826

This last will and testament of James Connell, Dec'd. was proven in open court by the oath 
of Elisha Bellamy, Milly M. Clark and Gray Williams, subscribing witnesses thereto and 
ordered to be recorded.

Test Wm Seal, Clerk"