JUDGE ROBERT RAY KANE. Judge Robert Ray Kane was born at Gate City, Virginia (then Estillville), on the 25th day of October, 1867, and died at that place on January 4th, 1902, being in his thirty-fifth year at the time of his decease. He graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in the class of 1888, and subsequently studied law at the University of Virginia under the late John B. Minor. He was admitted to the Bar December, 1891, and commenced the practice in January, 1892, having become associated with the late Judge H. S. K. Morison. He was appointed a member of the Board of Visitors of the Virginia Military Institute, to fill out the unexpired term of Hon. William F. Rhea, and was again appointed a member of that body December 21, 1901, for a term of three years. He was elected judge of the County Court of Scott county in 1901, and held this position at the time of his death. Judge Kane was a man of many brilliant parts. Inheriting from his father, who was one of the most distinguished lawyers of Southwest Virginia, a natural aptitude for the profession, he ranked as one of the ablest lawyers of his county and section. As a student at the Virginia Military Institute he gave early promise of a brilliant future. He graduated as one of the cadet captains, and ranked high in class standing. In many respects he was regarded as the most brilliant in a class that numbered many bright young men. About six years ago he was united in marriage with Miss Josie Edmonds, of Gate City, and she and three children survive him. He was called away too early to have made more than a commencement on the career he had mapped out for himself, but he left the impress of his strong personality upon all with whom he came in contact. As a judge, he gave eminent satisfaction, both to the Bar and litigants. But it was in his home life that his splendid character displayed itself in all its fullness. He loved his home, his wife and children, and was always happiest when in their society. In the flower of his young manhood God in His infinite wisdom has called him away, but during his brief sojourn on earth he impressed his character and rare ability upon all with whom he came in contact. R. A. AYERS. |