Mrs. Kay Jones is a thoughtful person who cares very deeply about her community, her family, and her origins. She also enjoys cooking and the company of her beloved pets. Her roots run deep in Union County. She’s a native of Luttrell, born in her grandmother’s home and delivered by her grandmothers’ cousin Dr. R.S. Monroe. She graduated from Halls High School in 1960. Her grandparents R.M. and Mayme (Monroe) Frost made their home in Luttrell. Mrs. Frost’s brother, Jim Monroe owned the local grocery store. Mr. Frost had an ESSO distributorship, which later became Frost Brothers ESSO Distributor, run by her uncle Kenneth Frost and Eugene Frost (her father). Jones has fond memories riding with her dad on the company truck visiting area farms. They served Grainger, Knox, and Union counties. Eventually the brothers sold the business, which later became an EXXON station.

After marrying Jess Jones, the couple moved to Johnson City, and later to Memphis, then in 1970 to Clearwater, Florida where they built their lives and careers together. Jones is passionate about her roots and her family. She proudly described her prized 5-generation photo that includes her great-grandfather Paris Ousley, her grandfather Herbert Ousley, her mother Ruth Lee (Ousley) Frost, herself and her son Jeffrey Jones. Kay retired in 2003 and they returned home in 2006. They purchased acreage and cattle naming their farm -TRAILS END FARM. She is looking forward to wearing the title great-grandmother, grandson Jordan(Mallory) Jones child is expected this October.

Upon returning to her beloved Tennessee homeland, Jones was eager to find ways to get involved in the community. She began by attending the City of Plainview Planning Commission meetings and was given the opportunity to sit on their Board. She also got involved with the local Chamber of Commerce and served as Treasurer and on the Board.

In 2008 Jones started volunteering at the Union County Humane Society where she still volunteers today. Jones is a self-described animal lover who feels she can give the most of herself to the community by going where her furry friends are. She enjoys helping the animals and interacting with the public, and currently serves as President of the Board. Other Board members include Executive Director Tammy Rouse, Vice President Laurie Oppel, Secretary Janet McCracken, Treasurer Richard West, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Carson Hutchison, William and Cornelia Von Schipmann, Buddy Warwick, and Nancy Wise. Jones is pleased to be in the company of esteemed board members as they all strive to fulfill its purpose and mission. When asked how the community can best help the Humane Society, Jones replied that no donation is too small. Our daily needs list can be found on website under SUPPORT US. Of course, there are also gratifying ways to help with donation of your time. Volunteer opportunities are posted on their website at http://www.unioncountyhumanesociety.org/support-us/volunteer/.

Fundraisers are of great importance to the Humane Society, its mission, and its ability to care for animals until they find their “furever” homes. In 2010 and 2015, Jones particularly enjoyed gathering recipes and putting together cookbooks for Humane Society fundraisers. The Humane Society just hosted its 14th annual “Ride Like an Animal” motorcycle fundraiser and raffle on September 11th, which began at the shelter and ended at Li’l Jo’s BBQ. Jones stated that fundraisers such as this are especially important for providing much needed financial support. The shelter’s 2020, fundraisers were cancelled due to the pandemic. Jones is hopeful that COVID-19 will soon subside, and things will get back to normal so we can collectively enjoy all the fun activities and events this great community has to offer. She is very thankful for the individuals and organizations that support this important work, such as the Union County’s current $20,000 annual support. The shelter searches for grants to support the shelters purpose and mission. The community can help keep the population of shelter animals down by spaying and neutering their pets.. The Union County Humane Society does low-cost spaying and neutering every Wednesday (you can call 865-992-7969 for an appointment or for more information).

To learn more about UCHS, visit them online at http://www.unioncountyhumanesociety.org/ and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Union-County-Humane-Society-428177840598250/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/uchs.tn/.

When asked my favorite question—which I ask of most people I interview—Jones said she defines success as helping people when she can, contributing to her community, and just being the best person that she can be.