Charles Edwin JOHNSTON was born near Sparta, Randolph County, IL, on 18 Sep 1851, and moved with his parents to Jefferson County, IL, near his present home farm.

He was married to Miss Mary Elizabeth LYNCH, on 26 May 1872; to this happy union 4 children were born, 3 boys and 1 girl: Ira L. JOHNSTON, of Bonnie, IL; Mrs. Chloe Eunice HOUSTON, 407 S. 15th Street, Mt. Vernon, IL; and two infants who preceded him to the better world, Little Lou and Xenia Otto.

Mr. JOHNSTON united with the M. E. Church in the fall of 1873 and lived a faithful and upright Christian life. One of his greatest desires was to teach little children in the Sabbath School to ever look to Jesus Christ as their great teacher, and to take Him as their example, and follow in His steps. Mr. JOHNSTON never missed a Sabbath when he was able to go.

About two weeks ago Mr. JOHNSTON became helpless and suffered untold agony all that time, but bore it with patience. He was prepared to leave this world, but did not want to leave his faithful wife and children, and all through his sickness he would say, "What will become of my poor little afflicted Edwin? (his little grandson) Oh, God bless him and take care of him".

C. E. JOHNSTON departed this life Wednesday at 1:25 a.m. January 15, 1913, age 61y3m27d.

Mr. JOHNSTON's parents were Mr. and Mrs. Bazie JOHNSTON, who came to Illinois from Tennessee.

Two brothers survive him, W. A. JOHNSTON and J. A. JOHNSTON, both of Bonnie, IL.

Mr. JOHNSTON leaves his wife, 2 children, 5 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter, 2 brothers and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss.

He was a devout husband, a loving father, had deep sympathy for all in trouble and was kind to everybody he came in contact with.

Funeral services were held at the M. E. Church, in Bonnie, Rev. Judd ADAMS officiating. Interment at Cub Prairie Cemetery.

"Servant of God, well done;
Rest from the loved employ.
The battle fought - victory won,
Enter thy Master's joy."

Note:
William A. JOHNSTON, born 1836; died 21 Oct 1924; buried Kirk Cemetery; f. Bazil JOHNSTON; m. Berticia (JAMERSON); sp. Sarah J.; survived by 4 sons, Felix, Lucius, Vincent and Clark)

Source: Mt. Vernon, IL Daily Register
Date: January 22, 1913
Submitted by: Mary Zinzilieta