What a difference dedicated volunteers can make when they decide to focus on one area and give it 100%. Jim and Judy Finses have been volunteering in the cemetery since late last winter and early spring. They introduced themselves one day when I was picking-up downed branches and limbs in the Odd Fellow section and asked if they might be able to volunteer caring for the grounds.

Since then, they have worked in different areas of the cemetery and raked leaves along the roadways and whereever else needed a little TLC. More recently and according to Jim, inspired by the work accomplished by Eric Rogers and Gillian Walton, who adopted the entire Improved Order of Red Men section, Jim and Judy began focusing their efforts in the Catholic section. They have been raking and bagging leaves, pruning bushes and hedges, clearing curbing of a buildup of moss and anything else that catches their attention. It has been a very long time since the Catholic section has received so much attention and care and it is sincerely appreciated. Jim and Judy can be found in the morning hours, several times a week, going about their business caring for the grounds. They are a delightful couple with such a positive attitude about life, volunteering and giving back.

They, along with our 185 Adopt-A-Block volunteers, the group who clean headstones monthly, and our restoration team, have transformed the cemetery and made it a place that people want to be involved with. My sincerest appreciation and gratitude to each and every one of you for all that you do in helping to care for those who came before us.

Upcoming September 2021 Cemetery Events and Activities:

  • History Saturday in the Cemetery, September 11, 10am—Our program, “Scandalous Stories in the Cemetery,” will be presented by Ellen Martin and Dee Reynar and starts at 10am. No advance reservations are required and there is no charge for attending. We do ask that you consider making a donation to support the work of the Friends of Jacksonville Historic Cemetery. The program will be approximately 90 minutes and may include a short walking tour to gravesites related to the topic. We suggest wearing comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Meet your docents at the top of the Cemetery Road where you will find parking available.
  • Marker Cleaning Workshop, Saturday, September 18, 9am-—Learn the proper cleaning techniques and tools to use to clean headstones and monuments at our Marker Cleaning Workshop. Tools, supplies and instructions will be provided at the workshop which starts at 9am and concludes at noon. Dress for this hands-on-training and meet at the Sexton’s Tool House at the top of the Cemetery Road.

Featured Image: History Saturday presentation, “Lets Talk Cemetery,” by Dirk Siedlecki, July, 24, 2021. Photo: Mary Siedlecki