A Centralia woman is one of two Illinois Outstanding Working Women of the Year.
Traci Macz who co-owns the Macz Funeral Homes in Centralia, Sandoval, Patoka, and Odin with her husband was honored for her community involvement, work at the funeral home, and co-authoring a grief and bereavement paper for those who have lost their parents before the age of 40.
Illinois Business and Professional Women’s Club President Amanda Burke of Mt. Vernon made the announcement.
Macz admitted it has been a tough year especially in telling families during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic that only ten family members could attend a funeral of their loved one.
“I get up in the morning, I don’t tell my children that I am going to work. I never say that. I am going to help people. When I mentor to other young people whether it be in the CEO program, going to campuses, and talking to children I tell them pick a career when you wake up in the morning you say you love what you do. Do not settle for anything else. Love what you do. Even through this last year and a half I am proud to say that I love what I do because I am helping people.”
Macz told those in attendance at the BPW reception Wednesday night she was speechless when first notified of the award.
