Wilma J. Jones

Wilma Jean Jones of Averill Park, NY, passed peacefully on July 17, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was at home, surrounded by her loved ones. Willy, as she was known to her family and friends, was born on February 4, 1943, to David and Beatrice Jones, in Utica, NY. She graduated from Morrisville-Eaton High School, where she was an outstanding athlete. She went on to get her Bachelors degree from SUNY Cortland, and then her Masters degree in Physical Education from La Cross, Wisconsin College. She started teaching at Cooperstown Elementary School, after which she went on to teach at South Glens Falls Jr. High School for 30 years, retiring in 1998. While at South Glens Falls H.S. she had the opportunity to coach the girls Volleyball team, who won the championship in 1981.

Willy was a member of the Women's Golf League of Saratoga (Par 29), where she was the treasurer. She had a great sense of humor! She loved cooking, camping, and playing golf. She was an avid reader, taking an interest in historical figures, especially Teddy Roosevelt. And she loved reading anything by her favorite author, Doris Kearns Goodwin. But one of her favorite things to do was travel the U.S. with her loving wife, Millie. And what adventures they had, meeting people all along the way. Some of these people became lifelong friends. Willy was very proud of the fact that she had traveled to all 50 states!

Willy is survived by her wife, Millie Moore. She is also survived by her sister, Marilyn Beard and brother in law, Doug Beard, as well as her nephews David and Jonathan Beard. Also surviving Willy are many cousins.

On June 6, 2026, Willy had a "living wake" with a gathering of friends and even some of her former students. They traveled from near and far to celebrate her life and tell stories and reminisce about all of the wonderful times that they had together. Many memories were made that day, and will be carried by those who were fortunate enough to celebrate with her.

Burial will take place at the convenience of the family, at Welsh Cemetery in Nelson, NY.