The Columbus Enquirer-Sun
22 March 1902
Viewed online at GenealogyBank.
"He Lived to Bless Others, and Died to Save Others"
(Talbotton New Era)
Saturday afternoon the remains of Mr. Allen F. Matthews, who lost his life on the Southern at Couch's creek, were tenderly laid to rest in Rose Hill cemetery by the side of his little daughter who had only recently been placed there. Thus ends the last chapter of a noble life. A large number of friends and relatives came over from Columbus to the interment. The grave had been dug two weeks and a tent was placed over it to keep the rain out. When the body was found after two weeks' labor to rescue it, it was in position in the cab of the engine as if grasping the reverse lever. Few engineers stood higher in the estimation of the officials than did Mr. Matthews, and his heroic efforst to save the lives of his passengers were not stopped till death came. He has added a new lustre to the name of Matthews, for no braver or nobler deed is recorded in history than when one goes to death with efforts all directed to save others.
The beautiful floral offerings on the handsome metallic casket were more than one. A marble shaft over his last resting place should bear the inscription, "He lived to bless others, and died to save others."
