Have you ever met someone so filled with the joy of life that you can’t help but feel better just by being around the person? Keisha Jones is that person. Her positivity, happiness and deep care for others are infectious. She lights up any room she enters.
Jones grew up as an only child in Micanopy, Florida. Her mother, Cora, often says, “They broke the mold when Keisha was born!”
Spending summers on her grandparents’ farm in Micanopy, Jones fondly recalls the lessons her grandfather taught her. He taught her how to drive, fix things and, more importantly, shared words of wisdom that continue to guide her: do things right the first time, spend a bit but save a bit, too, treat others with kindness and love, stay positive, show gratitude and remember that some people have it worse.
After graduating from Gainesville High School, Jones immediately began working. Her early jobs included stints at a grocery store, fast food chains and restaurants, before transitioning to hotel housekeeping and later, retirement communities.
For over six years, Jones has worked in housekeeping at Oak Hammock. She’s known for performing her duties with excellence and always greeting others with an infectious smile. Her colleagues and supervisors speak highly of her, including Rebecca Snowden, housekeeping manager, who says, “Keisha embodies everything that the ‘We Care’ program stands for. She is more than just an employee; she genuinely cares about her co-workers and the residents. Always full of energy and positivity, she has a remarkable way of turning a bad day into a great one.”
Jones is cheerful and humble. She’s eager to share her story but unsure why anyone would want to hear it. One of her team members calls her “Keisha Sunshine,” which makes Keisha laugh, and if you know her, you know her laugh makes everyone smile. Jones is unapologetically radiating optimism, warmth and positivity.
Recently, Jones shared some of her thoughts:
What do you like most about your job?
Interacting with people is my favorite part. Everyone has a story to tell, and I love listening. I believe people feel better when you listen to them. It’s important to be there for others and offer a kind word and positive vibes. I can often tell by their eyes if something’s wrong, so I try to encourage them to talk and show them compassion.
How do you apply the We Care themes in your work?
The We Care themes—welcoming, exceptional, courteous, attentive, responsive, and empathetic—are great guidelines for what we do. Our job is to serve the residents and help each other. I feel joy and happiness, and I love sharing that with others. I often feel I make a conscious effort to do the little things that help cheer someone who might otherwise be having a bad day.
How do you make a difference for the residents?
Each day, I greet people with a smile and treat them the way I want to be treated. I try to be myself and make people feel special. It’s important for them to feel that I’m happy to see them and that they’re the best part of my day. I enjoy sharing laughter with the residents and making a positive impact.
I believe in going above and beyond. I’m always courteous and pay attention to my surroundings and the people around me. My approach is to jump in and give it my all.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
My partner of 22 years is Herman Bellamy. We met while I was working at a grocery store—it was love at first sight. Herman has five kids, and while they’re all grown and don’t live with us, my mother does. We’re a very close family. Herman is a “jack of all trades,” working in lawn care and construction.
I have two jobs—full-time housekeeper at Oak Hammock, and I also clean houses for a few outside clients. I work hard Monday through Friday but enjoy relaxing on weekends. Herman and I love riding our Harley motorcycle together. We travel to events, flea markets and fairs all over North Florida. Riding gives me peace of mind; it’s the best way to clear my head and get a breath of fresh air.
Final words from Jones:
Singing and dancing keeps me alive!
“Keisha has helped in every way she could. She stops to do whatever is needed. I can’t be down for long if Keisha is around.” – Juanita Miller, resident
“Keisha brings sunshine and smiles to our Oak Hammock community. Her favorite question for me and others is, ‘Very, very good?’ accompanied by a heartwarming smile and a thumbs-up. It’s impossible to be down when she’s around because you know she truly cares. Thank you, Keisha.” – Heather Gilkey, resident
“Keisha is an Oak Hammock treasure, and I wish we could clone her. Her personality is contagious, and she brings a smile to my face each week. She’s extremely efficient and happy in her work, and I just love her. We need more people like Keisha in this world!” – Nancie Jones, resident