J. D. THRELKELD, M. D., is a native of Crittenden County, Ky., and descendant of an old and highly respectable Virginia family, of the same name. He was born June 1, 1851, and is a son of W. M. and Sarah (McCollum) Threlkeld; the father a native of Kentucky and the mother of Tennessee. Thomas Threlkeld, subject's grandfather, came from Virginia many years ago and settled in the northern part of Crittenden County, on the Ohio River, and was among the earliest pioneers of that county. He was a very successful farmer and trader, and died in 1853, at an old age. W. M. Threlkeld, father of our subject, was born in 1820, and died May 4, 1864. He was a farmer and speculator and one of the leading businessmen of Crittenden County. Mrs. Threlkeld died in 1854. The following children were born to W. M. and Sarah Threlkeld, viz.: W. T., J. D., R. G., and Lucy E., wife of J. A. Farris. By a second marriage Mr. Threlkeld had three children, two of whom are now living. The early years of Dr. Threlkeld's life were spent upon his father's farm, where he worked during the summer, while the winter season was spent attending the common schools. In 1869 he entered the Marion Academy, which he attended two years, and in 1871, he commenced reading medicine under Dr. C. L. Harris, of Carrsville, with whom he remained one year. In 1874 he entered the medical department of Louisville University, which he attended two years, graduating with the class of 1874. After graduation he commenced the practice of his profession in Crittenden County, where he resided until 1875, at which time he moved to Salem where he has since resided. He was married January 18, 1878, to Miss Ella LaRue of Salem. Three children have been born to that union: Roy, Lal and Hayden. Dr. Threlkeld is one of the leading physicians of the county and has a large practice. At present he is associated in the practice of his profession, and in the drug business, with Dr. John V. Hayden, under the firm name of Hayden & Co.
Source: J. H. Battle, W. H. Perrin, & G. C. Kniffin. Kentucky. A History of the State. Louisville, KY, Chicago, IL: Battey, 1885. Page 835.