Obituary

Mrs. Lena Searls died Sept. 5, 1886, in Marion Twp. near the mouth of Stillman Creek, Aged 83 years, 4 months and 13 days. She was born in Sweden, March 22, 1803. Married in Sweden in 1821, to her first husband, Wm. Johnson. The result of this marriage was 9 children, 6 sons, and 3 daughters, one son and two daughters died in Sweden. Mr. Johnson also died in Sweden.
And while a widow she emigrated to this country in 1863 with her remaining six children.

Shortly after her arrival in America she married Mr. Watson, an English man by birth, and about six years after, he died leaving her again a widow.

She remained a widow some years, whe she was married to James J. Searls, Mr. Searls died in 1872. She has remained a widow from that time, living near the mouth of the Stillman Creek where she lived with Mr. Searls. She has been a resident at this place about 30 years.
There remains of the family four children, three sons and one daughter.

Two sons and the daughter are in Illinois. One son in Kansas. One son died shortly after coming to this country. One was mysterously lost.
Mr S. L. G. Johnson and Mrs. Mary are honored members of Marion Township.

She was a member of the M. E. Church at Stillman for 25 years. She attended service till age and deafness hindered her being present. Her hope in Christ was firm unto the end. JHT

Byron Express, Sep. 17, 1886, p. 1

Contributed by Bob Hutchins

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