On October 5th 2012, Joliet Township lost Minnie Hervey, an avid worker in the Joliet community. Hervey was best known for her smile and bright personality which had an impact on everyone who met her.

Hervey was born on April 10th, 1954 and was one of 19 children. She graduated from Joliet Central in 1972. She then went on to working for Ameritech for 30 years. After retiring, Hervey fulfilled her dream of becoming a school bus driver for the Joliet Township schools and later worked on the Joliet Central campus in the deans office before moving to the West campus as an assistant in the athletic office.

Hervey made a tremendous impact on many people around her. Obituary website PatchNetwork described Hervey as, “… an avid bowler, enjoyed traveling, and loved to dance the night away in her “fierce” high heeled shoes.  Minnie enjoyed life to the fullest. Her smile was infectious and warmed the hearts of many. She also had a signature laugh that could brighten anyone’s day.”

In her later years on the Joliet West campus, Hervey came to work every day with a smile on her face. Counselor, Alan Mart, recalls her bright personality. “She was the face of the athletic office. She looked after players, coaches, as well as Mr. Milsaps. She was always smiling. I was always able to laugh about something with her,” he says.

Coworker and close friend, Mr. Romanelli, was saddened when hearing of Hervey’s passing. When asked his thoughts on her he said, “She was one of the most vibrant people in the building. She was the life of the party. Whenever I came in to the office there was always something going on and she was always happy to see someone walk in. I can still hear her laugh. I’m pretty sure she’s still here… I miss her.”

It’s apparent that Hervey has made an everlasting impression on the Joliet community. Her smile and loving personality have touched the students, teachers and many others. We will never forget Mrs. Hervey and the work that she has contributed to making Joliet Township a better home for all students and staff.