His death certificate records John Short, age 74 years 2 months 22 days, birthdate blank, born in Tennessee, married, husband of Lou Short, farmer, father Granvil Short, mother’s maiden name Rebbeca Hudelston, both born in Tenn, cause of death heart disease, informant Coliza Hilton, West Liberty, Ky, burial in Lewis Henry graveyard.

The reported age at death implies a birthdate of 9 May 1858, which is consistent with census records.