The Rockford Register-Gazette, Friday 26 May 1911
(Illinois)

DEATH COMES IN OLD AGE
RICHARD JOHNS DIES AT HIS HOME ON PALM STREET. FUNERAL SATURDAY.
Richard Johns, a resident of Rockford for more than half a century, died Thursday afternoon at 3 o’clock at his home 528 Palm street. Death was due to a complication of diseases, although he had been ill only a week.
Mr. Johns was born in Cornwall, England, March 2, 1828. When 23 years of age he embarked on a lumber ship for America, reaching Quebec after of voyage of six weeks. Mr. Johns came to Rockford and engaged in the meat business. After three years he sold his interest and returned to his native land, where he was married to Miss Jane A. Hocken, May 10, 1853. Mr. Johns again came to America, bringing his bride. He settled in Rockford township, acquiring 540 acres of land, and devoted his active life to farming and stock-raising.
Mr. and Mrs. Johns passed the 58th anniversary of their marriage two weeks ago. Mr. Johns was a fine type of citizen, prosperous in business and possessing those qualifications which make and retain lasting friendships.
Mr. Johns is survived by his wife and seven children. The latter are Nathaniel Johns, living on State road; W. R. Johns, 2506 West State street; Frank Johns, residing north of the city; A. C. Johns, of Los Angeles, Calif.; Mrs. Nelson Safford, of 1511 School street; Mrs. Minnie Sauber, of Rockton avenue road; Mrs. Flora Sauber, 528 Palm street.
The funeral will be held at the home Saturday afternoon at 2:30. Rev. J. M. Taber, of Court street church, will officiate, and the interment will be in the West Side cemetery.

Contributed by Bob Bolitho