Deacon Lonnie James Jones (LJ)

" I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4:7

Lonnie James Jones, affectionately known as L.J., was the loving head of his family who cherished spending time with them. He loved playing Dominoes and enjoyed challenging anyone willing to join him. Family road trips brought him immense joy, creating memories filled with laughter and fun. Now, he's in Heaven, still playing that beloved game of Dominoes, bringing happiness to everyone around him. L.J.'s warm spirit and love for family will always be remembered by those he left behind.

L.J. was born July 3, 1935, to Lucinda Walker and George Dewy Jones and received his general education in Daingerfield, Texas. On December 24, 1959, LJ married the love of his life, Annie Mearl Jones. They were a true team, working together in everything they did. Their beautiful union welcomed four children, Michael Jones, Mary Yvonne Jones, Carolyn Jones, and Lisa Jones. In 1961, LJ and Mearl moved to Dallas, Texas, where they built a happy life together for the remaining 64 years of their marriage. When you think of LJ, you also think of Mearl, as they were inseparable in both love and partnership.

He was a very smart man who loved to think creatively. He wanted the best for his family, so he worked three jobs to make that happen. One of those jobs was at Lockheed Martin, where he started as a Janitor. L.J. didn't stop there; he worked hard and learned new skills, eventually becoming a detailed Hand Finisher. After many years of dedication, he retired from Lockheed, proud of how far he had come and the future he helped create for his family. After taking time off, L.J. returned to the workforce at HM Dunn AeroSystems, Inc. where he took pleasure in being able to mentor and train his Grandsons, DeMarcus and DeVonta. He worked hard for several years, and when it was time to retire, he thought it would be for good. However, he found that his skills were still in demand, so he chose to go back to work. L.J. finally retired again at the age of 81, proud of the impact he made and the knowledge he shared along the way.

L.J. as the Groundskeeper at New Hope Progressive Church of God in Christ dedicated many years to caring for the church's landscaping working outside of the building. When he was about the "young" age of 65, he moved inside the church walls and accepted Christ into his life. As his commitment grew, he was ordained as a Deacon, taught Sunday School, became a member of the Finance Board and The New Hope Crew Choir. Sadly, he had to step back from his landscaping work as his health began to decline, but his love for God and the church remained strong.

On Friday, January 10, 2025, L.J. entered his eternal home of Glory where he was welcomed by his Beloved Mearl; his Parents Lucinda Walker and George Dewy Jones; his Brothers Floyd Rivers, Sammie Walker, Lloyd Lee, and Levern Everett; his Sisters Juanita Evans and Mary Walker-Pritchett; Grand-daughters, Brittany Cooks and Kristin Hill.

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His Life and Love will always be remembered through his children.

L.J.'s Legacy will be cherished in his Grandchildren, Michael "Eric" Porter (Angela); Shatavia Cooks (Tyrone High); DeMarcus Cooks (Brittany); Devonta Cooks, Phylicia Love (Randel); Erica George and Morgan Jones. Great-Grandchildren, Jayceon Gee, Cheyanne Chambers, Emma Salter and Blake High; Honorary Children, Verda Johnson, Samuel McCoy, Lakesha Lydia, Terri Craddock, Tiffani Thompson, James Marsh Jr., Gaylenn Callahan (Leroy) and Denise Joyce ; Sisters, Dorsula "Dee" Garrett and Rosie McCoy. 11 Honorary Grandchildren and 9 Honorary Great Grandchildren

A Special Thanks… The Jones Family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Pastor and First Lady Williams, Leon Lawton Jr., Sis. Tiny Black, Donna Bolton, and Larry Owens for the kindness you showed our Dad during his health challenges. Your support meant so much to us, and we are truly grateful for all the ways you helped him. We thank God, our Father, for wonderful people like you in our lives. May God bless you abundantly for your generosity and love. Your kindness will always be remembered.