Delaware State Fair legend retires after 40 years

HARRINGTON, Del. – In Harrington, the name Mrs. Diana Jones rings bells.

The legend has dedicated 40 years of her life to serving people in the Judge’s Chamber at the Delaware State Fair. But now, she’s getting ready to hang up her apron. 

“It has been wonderful. Every year is a new year and something exciting happens every year,” Mrs. Jones said.

Mrs. Jones started working at the fair back in the 80s, alongside her husband David Jones, where the two started the Judge’s Chamber lounge to give fair officials a spot to relax and eat.

Now, after four decades of feeding people cakes and her famous chicken salad, Mrs. Jones said it’s hard to step away, but it’s necessary, so she can spend more time with her growing family.

“It’s been emotional because I love doing this, but I’m getting tired, so it’s time for me to move onto something else,” Mrs. Jones said. “I will miss it, absolutely, and miss all the people; I’ve met some interesting people.”

The couple came into this operation together, so they’re leaving it that way. Mr. Jones is retiring from his role as a chamber judge, and after all those shared experiences together, he said there’s one thing the duo will miss the most: the people.

“If you give the fair a chance, it will get in your blood, and you will embrace it, I guarantee it,” Mr. Jones said. “It will improve your lifestyle and it will improve your life and you’ll meet some of the finest people in this world, right here at the fair.”