Sgt. Jess (T. J.) Jones, ninety-three of Muskogee, OK, died on Monday, October 13th, 2008. He was born on August 14th, 1915 to William (Billy) and Edna Miller Jones, in Dubach, LA, the fourth of ten children, who all preceded him in death.On February 19th, 1942, Jess was united in holy matrimony to Miss Iodest Edwards. To this union seven children were born. Three of his children preceded him in death. Jess entered the military serving his country in the United States Army from 1941 until 1962, achieving the rank of sergeant. While serving in the military, Jess had been blessed with the opportunity to travel abroad as well as many places within the United States. After his retirement, he served as the director of the Reeves Addition Community Action (sometimes called the Mayor of Reeves Addition)as well as other areas of the City of Muskogee. He was always providing assistance to those in need. Also during this he joined Macedonia Baptist Church, where he served as a trustee, deacon and was in the Brotherhood Choir. In addition to church he also served in many other organizations such as a Commander in the American Legion, Life member of NAACP, 33rd Degree Mason, in the Trinity Lodge No. 84 F and AM and president of several PTA's. Sgt. Jones was instrumental in seeing that many young boys and girls were sent to Boys and Girls State and other civic organizations. He was a quiet but strong willed person who proudly served his country and community. The family members Sgt. Jones leaves behind to always love and never forget him include his wife Iodest of the home, three sons, William Jess Jones (Ann), of Tulsa, OK, Anthony Jones and Rev. Aundrea Jones (Marlene) both of Muskogee, OK. One daughter, Dorothy Bennett, of Tulsa, OK, forty-three grandchildren, twenty-seven great-grandchildren and ten great-great grandchildren. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and a host of others who fondly referred to him as Uncle T. J. A special friend Gerthia Kurley (DeeDee) who had been a life long neighbor.The homegoing celebration for Sgt. Jones will be held on Friday, October 17th, 2008 at 12:00 p.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church with Rev. Larry H. Smith, Sr., officiating. Rev. Aundrea Jones will perform the eulogy. He will be laid to rest eternally in Ft. Gibson National Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be today from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Services are under the direction of Ragsdale Funeral Center.
