JOHN JONES, the present occupation of the office of county clerk, was elected to this office in 1881, and has occupied it ever since.

Among the officers of Greene county, none are more worthy of notice than the worthy county clerk, John Jones, a life long resident of this county. He was born on the old homestead of his parents, Josiah and Elizabeth Jones, in 1839. The early years of his life were spent upon the farm, situated near Wilmington, now known as Patterson, where he obtained a liberal education in the district schools of his native place, and afterward attending a graded school in the city of Jacksonville. Proceeding to Chicago, he later entered upon a course of classical studies. In the counties of Morgan and Sangamon, Mr. Jones for some time followed the vocation of school teacher. In Aug., 1862, he enlisted in Co. H, 91st Ill. Inf., and was elected second lieutenant, and served in that rank until he was discharged, in Oct., 1863, on account of disability. Returning from the service, he was united in marriage, in 1865, with Minerva E., a daughter of Lemual J. Patterson, by whom five children have been born - Minnie F., Norman L., Lucy M., Howard K., and Cora M. In 1866, Mr. Jones entered into partnership with L. J. Patterson and James Howard, for the transaction of a general merchandising business, the firm name being Jones, Patterson & Co. In 1871, the firm dissolved by mutual consent, the senior member retiring to his farm, there following the duties pertaining to this independent calling. In 1868, he was elected to the office of justice of the peace, which position he held until Dec., 1872, when he received the appointment as county superintendent of schools and deputy sheriff. In the separate capacities he proved equal to the duties incumbent thereto, serving two years as deputy sheriff under N. J. Andrews, and two years under F. M. Bridges. In 1876, his ability was recognized and he became the popular candidate upon the democratic ticket for the responsible position of sheriff, being elected by the largest majority ever polled for the sheriff's office. In 1878, by the earnest wish of his many friends, he accepted the nomination to again serve in this capacity, and was re-elected. In July, 1880, he entered the Farmer's and Drover's bank, at Roodhouse, as cashier. In 1882, he was chosen by the citizens of the county to represent their interests as county clerk, in which capacity he still serves with his characteristic ability and efficiency, and with complete satisfaction to his constituency. Mr. Jones is a member of the board of education in Carrollton, is a member of the Baptist church, the Masonic fraternity, and the subordinate and encampment of the I.O.O.F. society.