From the front page of the Ridgeway Journal dated September 18, 1941: A fire destroyed the residence and funeral home of Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Roberson. “The large stucco two-story house was owned by Mrs. Lou Leazenby and was also known as the old M. E. Neff place. “The Robersons had only been occupying the property since April of that year. The fire started about 2 am and the residents were awakened by the sound of the flames. The fire had too much of a head start and “the efforts of the fire laddies seemed of no avail and the structure was soon reduced to ashes.”
Volunteers saved many of the household goods, but the funeral supplies on the second floor were deemed a total loss. The house and contents were partially covered by insurance. The Robersons were determined to remain in Ridgeway and reopen their funeral home as soon as they could find a “suitable location.” The story was followed by a Thank You from the Robersons to all who had helped them during the fire.
