Florida 4-H Hall of Fame

Deloris Mae Jones

Deloris Mae Jones has been involved in 4-H for more than half a century in the state of Florida. Her work began in Duval County as a 4-H youth where she won numerous awards at the local, county and state levels. She was an outstanding 4-H'er who showed her leadership skills early in her 4-H career in the Southside Community 4-H Club where she held many offices. Under her leadership the club was a leader in county activities. During her career as an extension agent she initiated and implemented an outstanding nutrition and health program in Madison County. Although she is now retired many 4-H'ers continue to seek her wisdom and guidance in their 4-H endeavors. She encourages youth to become good, productive and outstanding citizens in their community through their involvement in 4-H. She has always cared deeply about youth and their problems and has tried over the years to be an inspiration and role model promoting leadership qualities and personal development among  youth. "Good, better, best. Never let it rest until your good is better and your better is your best," Jones said on many occasions to 4-H'ers looking for guidance. As a 4-H coordinator and home demonstration agent, she tackled many tough topics in a rural county where housing was often inadequate at that time. She was a driving force in assisting the local health department to secure vital data from residents to help improve living conditions for the community.