John F. Allard was born April 23rd, 1861; died Dec. 22, 1936, aged 75 years, 7 month and 9 days. He was the son of David and Rosana Allard, pioneer settlers of Pope county. He was married to Elizabeth Morse August 19th, 1880 and to this union 5 children were born: four girls and one boy:  Rosa, Lura, Altie and Willard, who have all preceded him in death, and Sidney Simmons , of Simpson. His companion being called away, he was married to Ida M. Jenkins, May 7th, 1891, and to this union 11 children were born, 7 boys and 4 girls, Ernest, of Kansas City, Mo., Elbert, Herman and Lowell, St. Louis, Mo., Dee of East St. Louis, Ill. Ruby Wimer of Simpson, Ill., two boys and three girls dying in infancy. He had four brothers and four sisters, all of whom proceeded him in death except Green Allard, of Robbs. Having lost his second companion seven weeks ago and being in failing health he came to make his home with his daughter, Sidney Simmons, who lived near him.
Mr. Allard was born and raised on the same farm all his life and was known by most everyone. He was honest and sincere in all his dealings, and you found him living the Golden Rule every day, ready to help in case of need and particularly fond of his children. He was converted when a young man but never united with a church, which probably may be explained by a remark he made only a few days ago, thus: It is not the Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian or any other church that saves you. This is a matter you have to settle with God alone. He will be missed by his neighbors and friends but more particularly by the children and grandchildren and grandchildren. Funeral services were held by Rev. Louie Simmons, after which the body was laid to rest in Kerley cemetery with his loved one to await the resurrection morn.

 contributed by Faye Bowman