Karen L. Jones, 77, Phillips died on Saturday, July 21, 2012, at the Park Manor Nursing Home, Park Falls. She was born on October 19, 1934, in Downers Grove, Ill., the daughter of Howard and Gladys (Cluck) Pippenger. She spent her early life and schooling in Downers Grove,  Ill. where she attended and graduated from Downers Grove High School, Class of 1952. She continued her education by attending and graduated from Western Illinois University in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education. She was married to Roy Jones on May 30, 1958, in Glendale Cal They recently celebrated their 54^th wedding anniversary.. She began her teaching career in Los Angeles where she taught from 1956 to 1959. They then made their home in Philips in `1959. She was a substitute physical education teacher in 1965 then became full time from 1969 until the time of her retirement in 1980. While a teacher she was instrumental in implementing and coaching gymnastics, girls track and girls basketball. She was affectionately known as “Ma” Jones by her students. Following her retirement she and her husband Roy owned and operated Riverside Antiques and refinishing shop until 2000. In her free time she was involved with the Northwoods Players Madrigal performances and was an avid golpher.
She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Phillips, Northwoods Players and the Ladies Golf League.
She is survived by her husband Roy, Phillips, by 1 daughter: Susan (Ralph) Yerex, Greenboro, N.C., by 1 son: Peter (Brenda) Jones, Ladysmith, by 1 brother: William “Bill” Pippenger, Phillips, and by 1 sister: Doris (Charles) Ely, Excelsior, Minn.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
There are no services being planned at this time.
A memorial fund has been established
The Heindl Funeral Home, Phillips, is in charge of the arrangments