Family celebrating life of trooper killed earlier this week
The family of an Illinois State Police Trooper killed earlier this week is remembering her as "a strong woman who dedicated her life to the service and protection of others."
Brooke Jones-Story, 34, was outside her squad car when she was fatally struck in Freeport on U.S. Highway 20 near Route 75.
"Brooke is a daughter, sister, wife, stepparent and cherished friend," according to a statement from Illinois State Police on behalf of the family.
Jones-Story grew up in Stockton, west of Rockford, where she attended Warren High School and receieved a bachelor of science in criminal justice from University of Wisconsin-Parkside in 2006. She played volleyball in high school and college, the statement said. She started her career with the Illinois State Police and was assigned to District 16 in Pecatonica, where she was known for her hard work, positive attitude and being a rising leader.
"Brooke always had a passion for service and committed herself to becoming a Trooper," the statement said. "It was through that role that she gained her family in blue, met her husband and connected her personal and professional loves."
She married retired Master Sgt. Robert Story on Oct. 13, 2012, in Galena. She also was a fan of the Chicago Cubs, an active member of CrossFit and loved Disney movies, the statement said.
The family says they're celebrating her life.
"A dedicated, courageous, loving and passionate officer and the absolute best person you could meet," the statement said "Brooke will be sorely missed and is loved and celebrated for a life committed to her family and the service of others."
Jones-Story is survived by her husband, parents, sister, brother, stepchildren, step-grandchild, maternal grandmother and family and friends who loved her dearly.
Visitation is set from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 2, at Warren High School, 311 S. Water St., Warren. The funeral is at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, at the school. Burial will be private, per the family's wishes. Donations can be made to the family by visiting the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation website at www.isphf.org/donations, or via mail to Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation, P.O. Box 8168, Springfield, Illinois 62791. On the website, please note in the comments section, "Trooper Jones-Story Memorial Fund."