James (Jim) R. Jones, formerly of Vinton, passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2024, Father's Day and went to join his loving soul mate of 62 years, Betty Bales Jones in heaven after seven years of separation.

He went by many names in the Roanoke Valley for the 55 years he was here. But the most important names were Honey, Dad, Daddy, and Papaw.

Jim was born in Ewing, Virginia as the youngest son of Lewis and Augusta Jones. Jim grew up farming and learning the value of hard work and honesty. Through his 89 years, he never lost or forgot those values. His love of life, family and friendship were always evident in any and everything that he did.

Following generations of family service to the country, Jim became a proud member of the Army and ultimately joined the Third Infantry Old Guard and served between 1955 and 1963. Following his military service, Jim became a "telephone man" for a career lasting 35 years. His mentoring and consistent work ethic positively impacted many of his friends and colleagues. Additionally, Jim was heavily involved in his church, Thrasher Memorial United Methodist using his electrical skills to support the church in infrastructure efforts and his smile to greet everyone who approached the church doors. He was always ready to help, lend a hand or teach. Later, he became involved in local politics and business and served on the Roanoke County planning commission from 1979 to 1988. When he became a Papaw, he was always ready for a needed pick up or a quick trip to McDonalds.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Denise Jones Gaulin and husband Larry Gaulin; his son, Duane Alan Jones and wife Patti Dickerson Jones; grandchildren, Cody Alan Jones, Taylor Jones Runyon and her husband Christian Runyon and great-grandchildren, Elias Jameson Jones and Theodore Grayson Jones.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Jones Cemetery, Ewing, VA with Pastor Larry Fultz officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 6 until 8 p.m. at Oakey's Vinton Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Oakey's Funeral Service in Roanoke, Virginia is serving the James Jones Family.

Courtesy obituary provided by Jones Family Services.