Marion County’s new Junior Miss is Paisley Meyer of Centralia. She was one of 20 candidates for the title and was crowned at the end of the Junior Miss Pageant on Tuesday.
“I was very, very, very shocked. I don’t believe it still. I don’t have words.”
Meyer is 12 years old and a student at New Horizon Christian School in Centralia. She’s looking forward to her role as Marion County Junior Miss.
“Working for the community and helping out as much as I can around the fair.”
This was Meyer’s second year as a contestant, and said she has made so many friends. She says getting dressed up, the makeup, and getting her hair done were among the highlights of the preparation.
First runner up and the People’s Choice was Ellie Williams of Alma. Second runner up, Miss Congeniality, and Best in Communications was Graci Green of Salem.
Other special award winners were Abigail Tate of Kell, who won the Russler award; Danner Smith of Patoka, most photogenic; Grace Beatty of Centralia, best interview; Briah Henseler of Salem, best themed attire; and Nia Garden of Salem, best stage presence.
Outgoing Junior Miss Jane Taylor Rose called the new queen an amazing person, and she couldn’t be happier to give the crown to someone else who will present Marion County well.
“My favorite part is meeting people. I would not have come as far without the people who have helped me, especially my directors, my family, my parents, the queen before me, my sister; everyone has helped me and shaped me into the person I am today.”
Rose’s advice to the new queen.
“Soak it up, girl, come on, this is your year”
The Marion County Fair continues Wednesday night with the 3-C Arena and Top Gun Rodeo Series as the grandstand entertainment at seven. The 4-H auction is set for six in the show arena.
Marion County’s new Junior Miss, Paisley Meyer, joins first runner-up Ellie Williams and second runner-up Graci Green in a walk down the runway. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Marion County’s new fair queen Kallie Walsh (left) poses with new Junior Miss Paisley Meyer (center) and 2025 Junior Miss Jane Taylor Rose. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
The 20 Junior Miss candidates pose on stage during Tuesday’s pageant. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
