1920
2013
Jerome Judson Jones, 93, passed away Friday, December 13, 2013 at Beacon Hill in Denison.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Monday, December 16, 2013 at Bratcher Funeral Home Chapel with Jerry Coffman officiating.
Jerome Judson Jones was born January 13, 1920 in Jefferson City, Missouri. He was the youngest son of Frank and Emma Jones. His family moved to Los Angeles, California in 1927 and he graduated in 1938 from North Hollywood High School. As a child, he performed in several movies starring actor Mickey Rooney. He was a serious student with an abiding interest in science. From an early age, he was drawn to airplanes and the mystery of flight.
At the age of 20, he enlisted in the US Army and was quickly accepted into flying school. After qualifying as a pilot, he flew submarine patrols along the California coast. He was then assigned to combat flight operations in the Aleutian Islands. On September 11, 1942, following a raid on the northern Islands of Japan, his skill and courage allowed him to lead a group of badly damaged B-24 Liberator bombers back to safety. For his actions that day, he was awarded the Air Force's highest honor, the Distinguished Flying Cross.
He went on to serve 28 years as an engineer in the US Air Force and retired in 1969 with the rank of colonel. After retiring from the Air Force, he taught courses in electronics at Grayson Community College. He served two terms on the Denison City Council and took great pride in his Texas community. He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Alice Mae (Goldie) Jones. He is survived by his wife Diane Caroline Jones and his children, Evelyn Tackett of Kentucky, Kathie Fanning of Colorado, David Jones and Jo Merilee Gray of Denison, David McIntire of Coppell. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.
He loved to cook, was a graceful ballroom dancer, loved to travel, was a meticulous planner and a skilled carpenter. He was interested in automotives, firearms, gardening and history. His grandchildren were his delight and he never tired of being with them. He lived a life of integrity and grace. His family is grateful for the many expressions of care and concern during his recent illness. One way for friends to honor his memory would be to make memorial donations to Home Hospice, 505 W. Center St., Sherman, TX 75090.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
December 17, 2013
Mary Lou Sudkamp
Karkie and family, I was saddened to hear the news but hope that your happy memories of your dad will give you comfort and peace until you meet again. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Mary Lou
December 16, 2013
Jo and David, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your father was a great friend to my father. I miss the times my father, the Colonel and myself would sit and talk at the home. Listening to the stories our fathers would tell of their youth was amazing. We are indebted to that generation.
I will never forget the "look" he would give me as a kid!
Your Dad and Mom are a treasured memory of the Beasley's
Mike & Wendy Beasley
December 16, 2013
Beloved Jones Clan- Much love from Kentucky and even greater admiration for this wonderful man. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Morris and Gramig Families
December 16, 2013
Daniel Akers
Jo, I am so sorry for your loss. My payers are with you and your family.
December 16, 2013
Mary Rylant
My love is with your family as you send this good man to be with The Lord.
December 16, 2013
R.W. Harmon
Colonel, You had the prettiest house on Gandy street. You welcomed me when I came to visit David while he convalesced. Your watch is over Sir, Let the younger men take over now. Rest Easy, You will be missed, but your accomplishments will be a part of history.
December 15, 2013
Judy Sander
Dear Diane........I wish I could be there with you. I know how difficult this is right now, to lose a loved one. You and I both know that the Lord, Jesus is covering your sorrow and will be your rock and your Master of Peace and Love for all things. Jerry is in heaven with Jesus, and we know that is a homecoming to celebrate. God be with you and all his family as you reflect Jerry's life as a loved Christian man. Hugs, Judy Sander
December 15, 2013
Ricky & Iris Nichols
David and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss
December 15, 2013
I wish you much confort, peace, and many happy memories to get you through this difficult time.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Jones family.
Sincerly,
Shelly Elder, Gainesville,TX
December 15, 2013
Roy Gray
A good man. RIP.
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