Sunday's Obituary: John R. Woodyard

Evening Star (Washington, DC)
2 July 1924

MILL BURNED, OWNER FALLS IN WELL; DEAD

John R. Woodyard, Seventy-Six Years Old, Victim of Series of Misfortunes in Virginia

Special Dispatch to the Star

HOADLEY, Va., July 2 -- John R. Woodyard died this morning in Alexandria Hospital as a result of injuries received Monday night when burning timbers fell upon him as he clung to a pipe in a well at his saw mill here. He had fallen into the well while drawing water with which to extinguish the fire.

Wood[y]ard was 76 years old. While working at the mill his engine broke down and he went to his home nearby for tools with which to make repairs. Upon returning he discovered that the mill was afire. He attempted to draw the water when he tripped and fell into the well, a distance of seven feet. He clung to a pipe until assistance arrived, despite the serious injury caused by the timber falling upon him. His rescue was effected by neighbors attracted by the fire. The mill, valued at $1,000, was practically destroyed.

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Richmond Times Dispatch
3 July 1924

DIES FROM BURNS

Prince William Man Loses Property and Life

[Special to the Times Dispatch]

ALEXANDRIA, VA., July 2 -- John R. Woodyard, 75 years old, of Hoadley, Prince William County, Va., died at the hospital today as a result of burns received Monday caused by burning timbers falling on him when his mill took fire. After being burned he fell into a well while drawing water to help extinguish the blaze. His mill was destroyed.