Fire destroys Florence home
Firefighters from three Marion County communities were called out in the early morning hours Sunday to fight a house fire at 8th and Main in Florence. Responding to the 2 a.m. call were Florence, Marion, and Peabody fire departments.
Florence Fire Chief Tony Leeds said the fire's origin was unknown, but the house probably was a total loss.
Owners Brian Clay and Teresa Hendricks were awakened when Hendricks had trouble breathing due to smoke in the house. The two were the only ones home and were able to escape unhurt.
Hendricks' daughter and small children also reside with Clay and Hendricks.
The families lost everything. Several donation sites are accepting items to help them recover.
An account has been established in Clay's name at Cottonwood Valley Bank in Florence and friends of the family have put jars for cash donations at Johnson's General Store, Town and Country Cafe, Chuck Wagon Café, Junction Saloon, and Wilbur's Grocery, all in Florence.
Marion Elementary School also is accepting donations, including clothing.
The Sunflower Chapter of American Red Cross has provided the family with a week's lodging at the motel in Florence and vouchers for clothing and other necessities.
Judy Creamer, a longtime friend of Teresa Hendricks, said that Clay and Hendricks have been contributors to the Florence community for many years.
"Brian served on the ambulance crew for 26 years," she said. "And Teresa was a first responder for a number of years. Both have had businesses in Florence."
"They need everything," Creamer continued. "Nothing was salvaged."
Furniture, appliance, and other contributions may be dropped off at Creamer's home. To make arrangements, donors may contact Creamer at (620) 878-4604.
