THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, December 6, 1995 TAG: 9512050124
SECTION: ISLE OF WIGHT CITIZEN PAGE: 03 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Close Up
SOURCE: Shirley Brinkley
DATELINE: SUFFOLK LENGTH: Medium: 86 lines
When Sarah Leigh Jones retired from Nansemond-Suffolk Academy in 1985, she thought her secretarial days were over.
At the recommendation of a friend, however, Jones went to Richmond, had an interview with the clerk of the Virginia Senate, and was offered a job as secretary to a senator during the Virginia General Assembly.
For the past 10 years, Jones has traveled to the state capitol in January and worked for a senator in the General Assembly building until the annual session was over. The job also affords her the opportunity to attend many after-hours social functions.
``I enjoy politics and it's the most interesting job I've ever had,'' Jones said. ``I enjoy the people I work with. I've made many friends.''
Among Jones' responsibilities are answering calls from constituents, keeping up with all the bills and making sure that the senator keeps appointments and is present at all meetings.
In the early spring, Jones returns to her numerous activities in Suffolk, which include a part-time sales position at Holmes Ltd., and modeling for several women's apparel shops in Hampton Roads.
``I enjoy helping ladies buy clothes,'' she said, smiling. ``Looking good is serious business and your appearance affects how you feel about yourself.''
As chairperson of the annual Peanut Fest queen and court, Jones sees to it that the queen and princesses participate in all activities at the Peanut Fest grounds. She also advises them on what to wear for each function and attends all events with them.
Jones has been a member of the Holland Woman's Club for 40 years. She also is a member of the Prime Time Singers, a charter member of Professional Secretaries International, and a past president of the Pilot Club of Suffolk.
What brought you here? I was born in Nansemond County. I've lived in Holland for 42 years.
Birthdate/hometown? June 27, 1925. My hometown is Whaleyville.
Fondest childhood memory? Living in a small community where I had many playmates and could walk to school every day.
Marital status/children? My husband is deceased. I have a son, Russell Turner of Virginia Beach, and a daughter, Carla Dascher of Hollywood, Fla. Another daughter died in 1984. There are two grandchildren, Kelly Turner, 20, and Lee Turner, 18.
First job/worst job? My first job was as secretary in the commandant's office at the Norfolk Navy Yard. My worst job was working for the Rationing Board during World War II.
Occupation? Part-time sales position at Holmes Ltd. Before retirement, I was secretary at Holland High School for three years, secretary at Forest Glen High School for six years and then, secretary at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy for 16 years.
What's your favorite hangout? No hangouts. I enjoy my home.
Favorite night out on the town? I like to go out for dinner.
Favorite food/drink? Steak and a small, glass bottle of Coca-Cola.
Favorite movies/TV show? ``Driving Miss Daisy;'' TV show - 20/20 and sports, including football and basketball.
Book you wish everyone would read: ``The Real Race'' by Skip Wilkins.
Ideal vacation? Going to Sanibel Island, Fla.
I can't resist: Buying shoes
Few people know that I: Play a jew's-harp and I play Solitaire every night before I go to bed.
Most embarrassing moment? When I fell on the street in Suffolk. I had to emcee a fashion show the next day with a black eye.
If you won the lottery, what would you do/buy? I would buy a condo on an island, give to needy families, and travel.
What is the best advice you've been given and by whom? In my professional business training, we were taught to measure our words before we speak.
What's the best thing about yourself? I try to be involved. If you keep the mind and body busy, you forget about how you feel. Each day, I tell myself, ``Today is going to be a good day.''
If you could trade places with anyone in the world, who would you be and why? I am very satisfied with my life and my two lovely children.
Of what achievements are you most proud? I have tried to bring up my children in a good home and I know they appreciate this by their actions and their love for me. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by JOHN H. SHEALLY II
by CNB