Try reading the census and see what you get for the year 1880. It is very possible he was a doctor but
being one way back then, meant you were paid with whatever the people had to trade.
Also being poor in that period of time in the South meant one thing, you were in the same boat
as the rest of the folks.
Most of us never take time to realize what a struggle life was for our ancestors even if they had
a little money or were dirt poor.
If the grave was not marked, that was normal. All money had to be spent on the living.
Those that got marked happened after the family got a little money and if they were in the
same area still.
All of this is not informational, and I realize that, but having chased my own kin all over creation,
what I know is from experience.
I would also try the nearest Family Library ran by the Latter Day Saints, the Mormons. If you can
make it to Salt Lake City to the library, it is the place to go.
Wishing you the best.
Linda