The Dying Soldier

The sun was slowly sinking or the hilltops far away

The land was endless beauty where the dying soldier lay

Tears were streaming down his face as he slowly raised his head

And these were the dying words he said

Oh carry me back to old Tennessee

Let this be my last repose

Lay my feet beneath while I lie

Lay my head beneath the rose

Take this message to my mother for I know she's old and gray

At home I know she's waiting for her boy's return some day

Oh my mother I've come through for my country and for you

And I'm dying for the red white and blue

O'er the hills of Tennessee where the wild wind wonders free

There's a little girl waiting there for me

Tell her that the rose she gave me will be placed upon my grave

In memory of her soldier brave

Recorded 5/24/30 Memphis, Tn