Mrs. Lillie Mae (Finch) Jones

UTICA – Mrs. Lillie Mae (Finch) Jones, age 82, unexpectedly went home to be with the Lord on March 17, 2026. Born in Elba, Alabama, on November 25, 1943, Lillie was the daughter of the late Harrion and Mum Susie (Williams) Finch. She was raised and educated in Alabama. As a young girl, she relocated to the area with her family to join her older sister, Evie Lee Anderson, eventually settling in Utica after her marriage. Throughout the years, she attended BOCES, where she furthered her studies. Lillie was once united in marriage to Grady H. Jones, and from this union came the blessing of two children. At one time, she held a position with Special Metals. She then went on to Bendix Corp., where she worked as a machinist and assembler until her retirement. Not one to stay idle, she became involved in foster care at the House of Good Shepherd for almost 30 years. She also loved her role as a grandparent with the Utica School District until her illness prevented her from continuing in a position she cherished. An excellent mother, she was selfless and constantly concerned for the welfare of her loved ones. Her life revolved around her family, to whom she devoted herself as a matriarch and caretaker. She always looked forward to spending time with her children and was unwavering in her love and devotion to her grandchildren. She was always there to help and guide any child she encountered. Lillie Mae will be remembered as a woman with a generous spirit who was genuinely loving and sincerely kind. She was excellent cook, known especially for her soul food including collard greens, mac & cheese, and her famous potato salad. She could cast a line and spend relaxing time waiting for the fish to bite. Lillie was also blessed with grand vocals that allowed her to sing the Lord’s gospel music with such grace and enthusiasm. A true fashionista, she had a keen sense of style, always taking pride in her appearance, from her outfits to her nails and hairstyles. Her love of shopping reflected her eye for fashion. Affectionately known as the “Queen of the Pop-Up,” if she called and you didn’t answer, she would simply show up! Her outgoing personality and great sense of humor made her the life of the party. Lillie was a deeply spiritual and devoted woman who attended Payne’s Temple Church of God in Christ, where she was a proud parishioner and staff member. As Lillie would often say, “See ya!” She is survived by her son, Grady Jones, Jr.; the memory of her son, George Jones, who preceded her in 2015; and her daughter, Trunique Lashell. She will live on in the hearts of her grandchildren, Latanya (Robert) Linen, Levar Jones, Shanique Jones, Jamal Jones, Jameea Jones; and George Jones, Jr. Lillie is also survived by a host of great-grandchildren, including Javier Linen, and Royal Hines; sisters, Auginette Finch-Brown (the late James Brown), and Jurdine Smith; and brother, Jerry Finch. Additionally, she is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and friend, Dot Brown. She was pre-deceased by her sisters, Evie Lee and William Anderson, and Dora Mae Finch Townsend; and brothers, Albert Finch, and Benjamin Finch; uncle, Oscar Williams; a special niece, Johnnie Sue Anderson; her great-great nephew, Qua’dre DeBerry; and her best-friend, Rosetta Greene. The family would like to extend their gratitude to her niece Jessie Anderson for being delegated as the matriarch of the family, and to Brenda Rodriguez and her family, Ulysses Jamal Lewis Rodriguez and Nakita Rodriguez. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Lillie Mae’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mrs. Lillie Mae (Finch) Jones

November 25, 1943 - March 17, 2026