The Village of Park Forest recognized Blake-Lamb Funeral Home at its board meeting on Tuesday night for covering the funeral expenses of Officer Tim Jones, a Park Forest police officer who died in the line of duty on December 3. Mayor Joseph A. Woods presented a proclamation to the Oak Lawn-based funeral home, expressing gratitude for its support during what officials described as a difficult time for the community.
“On behalf of the Village of Park Forest, we are profoundly grateful for the compassion and humanity Blake-Lamb Funeral Home showed to our community in our hour of profound grief,” Woods said. “Their generosity honored Officer Jones’ ultimate sacrifice and showed what it truly means to embrace and comfort a community in its darkest hours.”
Officer Jones had survived a 2016 shooting while on duty that left him paralyzed. Over nearly ten years, he became known for his perseverance and resilience, serving as an inspiration to other officers and residents. The community has previously honored his legacy through gestures such as naming “Honorary Officer Tim Jones Way” and establishing a fitness award at the police academy in his name.
Village officials stated that because of Jones’ close connection with Park Forest, Blake-Lamb Funeral Home’s decision to cover his funeral costs was especially significant. The support helped ease burdens faced by his family and demonstrated solidarity with local law enforcement.
Blake-Lamb Funeral Home was founded in 1961 by M.J. Lamb along with Matt Jr. and Richard Lamb, continuing a family tradition in funeral services that began with the Blake family’s business established in Chicago in 1880. The company has received national recognition since its founding for professionalism and commitment to service.
The proclamation described Blake-Lamb’s actions as reflecting values such as community service, empathy, and respect for those who serve others.
The Village also used the opportunity to recognize Officer Jones’ contributions to public safety in Park Forest.
“This proclamation is a small token of our appreciation,” Woods said. “Blake-Lamb Funeral Home’s actions, and Officer Jones’ service, will not be forgotten by this Village.”
The Board of Trustees formally adopted the proclamation during Tuesday’s meeting.
Park Forest operates under a council-manager government structure featuring a mayor and six trustees who serve as the governing body. According to the official website, the village focuses on economic growth, municipal innovation, sustainability initiatives, health programs, education efforts like its Civic Leadership Academy, and collaborative approaches to public service delivery.
