Obituary: Joni Jones

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Joan Marie Jones (née Erwin), affectionately known as Miss Joni, of Bolingbrook, passed away March 13, while in her place of paradise, Treasure Island, Florida. Joni was a cherished wife, mother, sister, grandmother, preschool teacher and friend, who dedicated her life to spreading love and kindness.

Joni was born to the late Chuck and Phyl Erwin of Ballwin, Missouri. She took being the oldest of five siblings seriously. She made sure chores were completed and dinner was started, so the family could sit down together when everyone arrived home. When help was needed, Joni was there. Many times, she put her own needs aside to help others.

After the family relocated several times in Minnesota and to Iowa, St. Louis, Missouri became Joni's home. She worked as a volunteer coordinator at St. Luke's Hospital where she met many friends. During a blind date, she met the love of her life, Dan. They wed in the Old Cathedral in St. Louis in 1981. Joni and Dan welcomed a son, Ryan, and then a daughter, Carrie.

A work transfer took the Jones family to Bolingbrook. Joni became involved with the Bolingbrook Park District preschool program. As a preschool teacher, she devoted countless hours preparing for her classes late into the evenings, on weekends and during her free time. Everyone wanted to be in Miss Joni's class. Her goal was to instill learning and confidence in children. Her impact spanned generations, earning her invitations to birthday parties, graduations and even weddings.

Joni's children were her pride and joy. When her grandson Aiden was born, Joni's light and spirit were refreshed with unending enthusiasm. Alongside her family, she found joy baking, reading People magazine, shopping with her daughter, scrapbooking family vacations and watching the St. Louis Cardinals. She never forgot a friend's birthday, anniversary or special occasion. She was known for her impeccable gift-wrapping talent, thoughtful cards and beautiful holiday decorations.

Joni will be remembered for her kind spirit and unwavering love. She touched the lives of many with her infectious smile, generosity, kindness and compassion. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved and cherished her.

Joni is survived by her husband of 43 years, Dan, her son Ryan (Sarah), her daughter Carrie (Ryan), grandson Aiden, and many family and friends. Greeting Joni in heaven are numerous loved ones, including the family dog, Lucky, and beloved cat, Oreo.

To celebrate her remarkable life, Joni's family, friends and former students are welcome to gather on June 13 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Bolingbrook Golf Club. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Joni Jones Memorial Preschool Fund at the Bolingbrook Park District. Donations will benefit families needing tuition assistance. Donations can be made online, in-person or by calling 630-739-0272.