In Memory of D. Ann Jones
Submitted by: Mark Begovich
The ITA recently lost one of our greatest champions and long-time advocates, D. Ann Jones. I first met D. Ann when working on the Illinois High School Theatre Festival Committee. She was a passionate theater advocate and a champion of students.
D. Ann began working on the Illinois High School Theatre Festival in 1984 as the Theatre Director in Clinton, Illinois. She worked on committees over the next 22 years; she worked on the 2006 Committee even after her retirement from Clinton High School. In 1986, she was the Executive Director of the Festival with the theme, “Theatre: A Rehearsal for Life.” In 1990, she directed the All-State Production of The Wiz. She served on the ITA Board and has won the ITA Award of Honor. Additionally, D. Ann was a guide to educators all across Illinois by serving as a mentor for many involved with theatre over the years.
The following is from her memorial posted in the Clinton Journal:
“Della Annette Jones (D. Ann) 83, formerly of Clinton, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2023, at her home in Georgia, surrounded by her family.
Born on July 30, 1939, in Hot Springs Ark., D. Ann moved with her family to Clinton, in 1970. During her 40-plus-year career as a central Illinois educator, she taught at Clinton High School, Richland College, Lincoln College and Millikin University. She enjoyed teaching at all levels and was inspired by her students and colleagues.
D. Ann is survived by her husband, Morton Thompson; daughter Wendy Jones (Lynn), of Newnan Ga.; grandson Taylor Bennett (Regina), of Palmetto, Ga.; granddaughter Carly Jones, of New York, City, N.Y, and great-granddaughter Helen Bennett…D. Ann requested donations be sent to Heartland Theater, P.O. Box 104, Bloomington IL 61702.
Rest in peace, D. Ann.
