Transcript

Funeral services for Mr. John T. Watkins, who was killed in an automobile accident last week were held Thursday, October 5th at the Midway 1st ward chapel, with Bishop John Van Wagoner presiding. Music was furnished by te two wards of Midway. The invocation was offered by James T. Pyper and benediction was pronounced by Bishop Jacob Probst. The speakers were Henry T. Coleman, Ulrich Probst, John A. Wootton, Adolpe Y. Duke of Heber, and Bishop John Van Wagoner, all of whom spoke of the integrity of the deceased. A poem in honor of the hand cart veterans of which he was a member, was read by Mrs. Emily Coleman. A solo, "Come ye Disconsolate" was sung by Mrs. Clarence Probst and a duet, "Beyond Today" by Mrs. James Pyper and her daughter Clara. The floral offerings were many and beautiful. Mr. Watkins was the son of Bishop John Watkins and Margaret Ackhurst Watkins and was born in Maidstone, Kent, England, October 29th 1854. He came with his parents and sister, Elizabeth Watkins Allen, to Utah in the autumn of 1856, crossing the plains in Edward Martin's hand cart company. He was a man well respected and esteemed by those who knew him, honest, industrious, unassuming and a faithful L.D.S. He was the father of nine children, eight of whom are living and were present at the services. They are J. Edward, George, Francis, Ray and Earl Watkins of Provo, Ella Frisby of Duchesne, Dora Murray of Midway, Claretta Averett of Heber, one brother Edward Watkins of Vernal and one sister, Mary Anderson of Midway and a number of half brothers and sisters. His wife preceded him to the great beyond a number of years ago. The family have the sympathy of the entire community in their sad bereavement.