In the words of Coal City School Superintendent Chris Spencer, Mary Gill’s footprints can be seen in nearly every building, every grade level and practically every program the school district offers.
On Wednesday, July 9, the Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education dedicated a bench in memory of Mary Gill, who passed away in August 2024. Mary was elected to the Board of Education in November 1997, serving 27 years—24 of those as Board Secretary, the longest tenure in the district’s history.
The memorial bench is located in front of the District Administration Center, visible from the Board Room.
“Mary’s dedication, passion and service impacted not only our school community, but the community at large. This bench stands as a long lasting tribute to Mary’s unwavering commitment to our students, teachers, staff, schools, families and communities,” Spencer said.
During her time on the Board, she was involved in numerous district projects and initiatives, from the middle school referendum and construction of the Early Childhood Center to the high school addition and new administration center. She secured private funding for renovations of the Coal City High School Learning Resource Center and other projects that served to benefit current and future students.
“We hope that this bench serves as a long lasting tribute to Mary's legacy and to help remind everyone of her dedication, passion and most importantly the spirit of service that Mary embodied. This bench is not just a place to sit, but a place to reflect, be inspired and to remember the legacy of Mary Gill,” Spencer said.
Mary’s husband, Bill and her children, Ann and Bill and grandson, Hunter attended the dedication ceremony.