A Lawrence County Sheriff’s Deputy is showing a softer side to the entire country.

Julia Jones has her daughters to thank for entering her in the America’s Favorite Mom contest.

Rhelda and Emily Jones thought their mother was a perfect candidate for the Web based contest which awards $25,000 in prizes over 3 months. Touted as an unprecedented Mother’s Day contest, participants can with cash, flowers, and titles like most humorous, most inspiring, and most popular mom.

“Our whole family feels the same way about our mom,” Rhelda said. “She does so much for everyone and never asks for anything in return.”

Julia spent much of her adult life caring for her four children, but once all were attending school, she began working for the Sheriff’s office.

As one of only two female road units in the county, Julia doesn’t flinch at the thought of danger.

“Over the years there have been one or two instances where someone has disrespected me because I’m a woman,” Julia said. “I try very hard to uphold my title. I’m not going to accept any excuse, but I try to listen to both sides of every story and most people respect an officer when they try to be fair.”

Facing tense situations isn’t new to Jones. While raising her four children, she also fostered four others. Julia refers to her home as the “kid pit.” Over time they fostered two girls and twin boys.

Rhelda remembers as many as eight people living in their home, but said they always had more than enough.

“We never went without anything we wanted, but mom wore broken glasses for eight years.” Rhelda said. “She just worried about everyone else.”

Julia’s maternal spirit is still going full force, though all her children are grown. The ailing health of her parents has put her into that role once again.

While juggling work and her home life, Rhelda said, Julia also takes care of all of her parents’ medical needs.

Julia “accidentally” learned of her nomination for America’s Favorite Mom online, but was surprised and flattered.

“I feel very privileged,” Julia said. “I feel very blessed and honored that my children think enough of me to do something like this.”

Emily and Rhelda are hoping for more votes for this month’s contest, Most Popular Mom. Julia said she has more than enough to be thankful for.

“I have wonderful parents who set a great example for us. I have wonderful children and a wonderful husband who support me. I have good friends at work who support me. I truly am blessed.”

To read more about Julia Jones, or to vote, visit www.americasfavoritemom.com