04/17/2026
Very few people excel in everything they do, but our mom is truly one of those rare individuals. When she isn’t running her 44-year-old gift store, Sentimental Journey, or supporting her children and grandchildren, she dedicates countless hours to serving the Washington community.
She co-chairs the Washington Food Pantry Garden, a massive operation that averages nearly 4,500 pounds of fresh produce each harvest season. The fruits and vegetables grown are donated to organizations such as W.H.I.P., Threads Hope & Love, Peoria Rescue Mission, The Salvation Army, St. Monica’s, St. Patrick’s, FamilyCore, Neighborhood House, Tall Oaks Village, Open Heart Food Bank, and other surrounding area food pantries in need. From conception and preparation to planting, watering, and harvesting, she is involved in every step of this labor-intensive project. She works alongside an extraordinary group of volunteers and her amazing co-chair, Andrea Webb, to ensure its continued success.
In addition to her work with the garden, my mom volunteers her time on numerous local boards. She served on the original board responsible for the development of Five Points for 12 years and was the board liaison for the actual building process. She currently serves as the head of the Washington Specialty Shops on the Square, where she organizes and coordinates every downtown square event for the community to enjoy. These events require countless hours of planning—coordinating food trucks, booking bands, arranging carriage rides, and working closely with the city and sanitation services.
She is also a dedicated mentor to new business owners on the square, always willing to answer questions and provide guidance. She serves on the Washington Chamber of Commerce Board and remains actively involved in our church and local Bible study.
When I think of the word Washingtonian, my mom is the person who comes to mind. Her selfless dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her community are why she so deeply deserved this award! Congrats Mom on winning Washingtonian 2026!! We pulled off the biggest surprise and she had no idea!!👏🏻🤍