JOSEPH JONES, JR

In Loving Memory of Joseph Jones Sr. With deepest love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Joseph Jones Sr.-a cherished son, loving husband, devoted father, beloved grandfather, dedicated mentor, and loyal friend whose kindness, wisdom, and unwavering leadership touched countless lives. Born and raised in the South Side of Chicago, to Helen and Joseph Jones as their firstborn child. His formative years were shaped by a deep love for family and a boundless generosity that would define the way he lived his life. In 1963, Joe graduated from Parsons College with an associate degree in Art. Following graduation, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably for four years, including three tours during the Vietnam War. His military service reflected the courage, discipline, and commitment that remained hallmarks of his character throughout his life. After returning home, Joe met the love of his life, Sandra. They were united in marriage in 1967 and faithfully honored the vows they exchanged: "Till death do us part." Together, they built a loving home and were blessed with one daughter, Sheray (Jones) Sims, and two sons, Joseph Jones Jr. and Jason Quincy Jones. Driven by a lifelong commitment to serving and protecting others, Joe joined the DC Metropolitan Police Department, where he faithfully served his community, including during the 1968 Washington, D.C., riots. After leaving the Police Department, he returned to school to become a computer programmer. He went on to enjoy a successful career with Recognition Equipment Inc. (REI) before retiring from Nielsen Media Research in 2009. Retirement, however, did not suit Joe for long, and he soon returned to work with Verizon as a Business Marketing Manager. Joe's passion for serving others extended far beyond his professional career. As a dedicated coach and mentor with the Oxon Hill Boys & Girls Club, he devoted more than 35 years to developing young athletes and inspiring generations of youth through his leadership, encouragement, and example. He served as Commissioner of Soccer and Basketball for 20 years and was honored as Coach of the Year on numerous occasions. Known for his remarkable ability to connect with young people, Joe led multiple boys' and girls' teams to county championships. Many of the young athletes he coached went on to compete at the collegiate level, with several advancing to professional sports careers. His influence reached far beyond the playing field, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless young people. Joe's legacy is one of service, integrity, compassion, and unconditional love. He leaves to cherish his devoted wife, Sandra; his daughter, Sheray Sims; his sons, Joseph Jones Jr. and Jason Quincy Jones; his stepson, Dennis Michael Jones; his daughter, Pamela Smith; 15 treasured grandchildren; and a host of loving relatives, dear friends, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Although he will be deeply missed, Joe's spirit will continue to live on through the family he loved the lives he touched, and the enduring example he set for all who had the privilege of knowing him. "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23

JOSEPH JONES, JR

January 5, 1941 - June 9, 2026