On Nov. 1, 1933, my beloved “motha-in-law,” Lillian Jones, was born in Waco, Texas, to Frank and Atha Jones. In 1935, seeking better opportunities during the Great Depression, Frank and Atha migrated with Lillian and three of her siblings to Grand Coulee, Washington. They were part of President Roosevelt’s New Deal public works program, designed to restore self-sufficiency and dignity to American workers – though, too often, this vision prioritized white skilled men.
Lillian’s father, Frank, became a skilled machinist, and in 1945, when she was 12 years old, the family relocated to Spokane. She attended local schools and, after graduating high school in 1951, pursued a career in nursing. For over 30 years, she dedicated herself to caring for others, beginning at a local nursing home before working at Sacred Heart Medical Center and Baxter Labs.
Lillian and her husband, Gardner–affectionately known as “June”–raised six children, five of whom still call Spokane home. For 20 years, the family lived in the East Central neighborhood before moving to Spokane Valley, where they shared a fence with the beloved Black Lens founder, Sandy Williams. Lillian remained best friends with Sandy’s mother, Mother Williams, and their bond continues to this day.
Lillian’s passions have been many, but some of her favorite pastimes included playing Bid Whist, Spades, and Crazy Eights. She found peace and joy in gardening, nurturing both plants and the people around her. Above all, she was a devoted caregiver, tending to her mother, Atha, until she passed away at the remarkable age of 101.
Her life is a testament to her unwavering love for family and faith – her guiding forces.
To my dear mother-in-law, I love you with all my heart and soul. Thank you for allowing me to be your son-in-law.