Mary K. Jones has a name as familiar and welcoming as her presence in the Momence School District. As the Head Bookkeeper and HR Director, Mary has been a pillar of stability and integrity for over two decades. But her story extends beyond her professional contributions, weaving through her deep roots in Momence, Illinois, and the farm life that shaped her formidable work ethic.

Mary’s connection to Momence runs deep. “I grew up on a farm close to Pembroke, the last house in the Momence School District,” she recalls. Raised by farmers, Mary attended St. Pat’s, a local private school, before moving on to Momence High School. This community has been her lifelong home, except for a brief two-year stint in Indiana after marrying her high school sweetheart, Steve. “We were high school sweethearts,” she says with a smile. “He was a senior, and I was a junior. We dated for three and a half years and got married.”

Mary’s path back to Momence was paved by practicality and a deep-seated sense of community. When a job opportunity as an assistant bookkeeper opened up at the district in 2000, she seized it. The role allowed her to balance work with family, enabling her to be there for her children, especially during their early school years. “I could take off to go to different things they had going on, and my hours worked out that I could pick them up from school,” she explains.

Over the years, Mary has seen many changes in the district, but her commitment to fairness and integrity has remained constant. “I’ve always tried to be very fair and treat everybody equally,” she says. This principle has guided her through the complexities of managing payroll, budgets, and HR issues. It’s not always a role that wins popularity contests, but Mary believes in the value of following the rules and maintaining consistency. “By following those rules, I can treat everyone the same.”

Mary’s resilience was tested profoundly when her husband Steve passed away from kidney cancer. The quick progression of his illness left Mary reeling, but she found solace in her work, her family, and her dog, Charlie. “She got me through it,” Mary says of her golden lab. “She just has a personality and a love like nobody else.”

Charlie’s arrival in their lives was serendipitous. One rainy October day, Mary and her daughter visited a pet supply store hosting a fall festival. They stumbled upon Charlie, then a tiny eight-week-old puppy. “She was just beautiful and cuddled in our arms,” Mary recalls. Bringing Charlie into their home, initially just for one night, quickly turned into a permanent arrangement. Charlie became more than a pet; she was a source of comfort and a reminder of Steve’s love and strength.

Mary’s life is a testament to the power of community and the importance of family. She speaks fondly of her colleagues, particularly Helen, her assistant bookkeeper. “I’ve worked with Helen for 19 years side by side,” Mary says. “We get each other. We have a lot of the same working values and beliefs.” Their camaraderie is a cornerstone of Mary’s professional life, providing a support system that extends beyond the office.

The essence of Momence, according to Mary, lies in its small-town charm and the close-knit relationships that flourish here. “I like living here because it’s tight-knit. You know everybody around you, and there’s no judgment,” she reflects. This sense of belonging and acceptance is something Mary cherishes deeply.

Mary’s journey from farm life to her pivotal role in the school district is a story of perseverance, integrity, and community spirit. She embodies the values that make Momence special: hard work, fairness, and a deep-rooted connection to family and community. As she looks forward, Mary remains committed to her role, continually seeking ways to improve and adapt, always with the best interests of the district at heart.

In moments of reflection, Mary often thinks about what she would tell her younger self. “Don’t sweat the small stuff and take time for yourself,” she says. These words of wisdom are not just advice to a younger Mary but a reminder to all of us about the importance of balance and perspective.

Mary K. Jones is not just a bookkeeper or an HR director; she is a vital thread in the fabric of the Momence community. Her story is a celebration of dedication, resilience, and the enduring power of family and community ties. As Momence continues to grow and evolve, it is people like Mary who ensure that its heart and spirit remain strong.