John Koons Former Mayor of Mt. Vernon,
Dies Served Two Terms as Mayor, 1923-27.
Funeral Tuesday Morning

John A. Koons, who served Mt. Vernon as mayor for two terms in the twenties, died at 5:30 p.m. Saturday at his home, 222 north 8th street. His age was 86 years, five months and eight days.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Myers Chapel. The Rev. Clyde Todd will officiate and burial will be at Oakwood cemetery. The body will remain at Myers Chapel where friends may call.

Mayor in 1923 Mr. Koons was first elected mayor of Mt. Vernon in 1923 in the days when the city's chief official was elected for a two year term. In 1925 he was re-elected and served until 1927.

Mr. Koons is credited with being chiefly responsible for many of this city's public improvements in those days. It was during his term of office that an extensive street paving program was carried out.

Ran Furniture Store

For many years, Mr. Koons operated a furniture store here. One of Mt. Vernon's best known citizens, he resided here for 60 years. Because of failing health due to advanced age, he retired from active business and civic life several years ago.

Mr. Koons was born December 27, 1861 in Franklin county, the son of N.W. and Anna Koons.

On February 9, 1911 he was married at Jonesboro, Ark. to Delia J. Kerr, who survives.

Besides his wife, he is survived by one son, John Allen Koons of this city; two brothers, Robert A. Koons of Mt. Vernon and Joseph B. Koons of New York City; and two grandchildren

Source: Mt. Vernon Paper
Date: 1948
Submitted by Mary Jane Ohms