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Bill Lowery, Jr., lead pastor at the Ransomville Free Methodist Church, served as the spokesman for the Johnson family in speaking with reporters at Erie County Medical Center on Thursday, July 26. Lowery says the father, Jody, and a son, Nate, have beendischarged and two other family members are still recovering.

Jody Johnson, Son Released from ECMC



Buffalo, NY (WBEN) Two days after a house explosion that claimed his daughter's life, Jody Johnson and his son have been released from ECMC.

The family pastor -- Bill Lowery, Jr. of the Ransomville Free Methodist Church -- told reporters Thursday afternoon Jody Johnson, as well as his son, Nathan, were discharged.

Jody's wife, Judy, is in fair condition, but daughter Katie remains in critical condition at ECMC, says Lowery.

He also relayed a message from the family to the general public and media.

"Thank for your help in communicating their story and also the actions of the last few days. They also want me to express to all those who've made contributions to this point thanks on their behalf.  They are overwhelmed," Lowery says.

Johnson's daughter Sarah died in the house explosion on Tuesday in Wilson.

"And we are just now beginning to make arrangements for her burial," he says.

He says for parents who have lost children, "it's a never-ending grief process.  It will not end."

Lowery believes the family is over the initial shock and are now involved in grief resolution. 

In addition to serving as the family's pastor, Lowery is also a first responder and was on scene Tuesday morning in the aftermath of the house explosion.  

Lowery says reuniting the family is first, as is honoring their deceased teenage daughter. He says the Johnsons are a close-knit family with a deep spirituality.

Lowery says a private party has donated a five-bedroom apartment for the Johnsons to use for the time being. And a special fund for additional monetary donations for the Johnson family is set up through area locations of First Niagara Bank, Lowery says.


07/26/2012 2:50PM
Jody Johnson to Be Released from ECMC
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