Sad indeed was the death of Rozella Irene Johnson, youngest daughter of Jasper Johnson, near Brewster, Nebr., on Sunday afternoon July 18, 1920. Mr. Johnson and his family (wife and eight children) had started in their car to the home of a neighbor a mile or so away. A river runs through Mr. Johnson's farm, and this they had to cross on the way. In passing over the bridge, or rather over the approach at one end of the bridge, the soil, which had been undermined by the water, caved in, thus causing the car to overturn and plunge into the river. All of the occupants were thrown into the water, which was between five and six feet deep. Mrs. Johnson was struck by the car and partly under it. When rescued she was unconscious, but not long afterwards regained consciousness. It was a very narrow escape for her. Mr. Johnson succeeded in rescuing all the children except Irene. It was with heroic efforts that he did so, as there was much to contend with. He had just succeeded in rescuing the last two, except Irene, and was almost within reach of her, when she was seized by the current and carried under the bridge and down stream. The body was found a couple of hours later some distance away. It is considered remarkable that under the circumstances there were no more fatalities.The body of Irene was taken on Friday to Olpe, Kans., at which place burial was made by the side of the mother, whose death occurred 6 1/2 years ago. Rev. Wharton, pastor of the First M. E. church in Emporia, had charge of the funeral services. Irene's mother, before her marriage, was Miss Janie Willard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elias Willard of this city. At the time of her death Irene was 8 years old, 10 months and 15 days of age. She was a lovable and very promising child, and her untimely death fills the home with a sorrow which tries the stoutest and bravest hearts. But God's ways are not our ways, and it is for us to look to Him for that comfort and strength which He has promised to give in the hour of affliction and of sorrow.
Mr. Johnson and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. I. B. Johnson, now of Hoxie, Kans., were residents of the New Eden neighborhood in this county for several years before leaving this county in 1903. Friends in this county extend sincere sympathy to the bereaved family.
Thanks to Shirley Brier for finding, transcribing and contributing the above news article to this web site!
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