Bill Jones Obituary (1930 - 2020)

William Addison (Bill) Jones, age 89, of Lithonia, died May 5, 2020. Born in Lithonia, to Wallace Mercer and Martha Veal Jones, he was a graduate of Lithonia High School, class of 1948. Bill served his country honorably in the United States Navy and retired from Lockheed after 42 years of service. He enjoyed music, playing the guitar with various bands consisting of friends and fellow musicians. Sports was also important to him, and he enjoyed golfing, fishing and watching football. Bill and some of his friends were responsible for starting the first Lithonia Youth Football and he was a pioneer in integrating the youth in the area in this league. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Gina Jones; grandson, Trevor Jones; and son, Bart Jones. Surviving are his loving wife of 65 years, Betty Tinsley Jones; sons, Chunk Jones and his wife, Tammy, of Suwanee, Jeffery Jones and his fiancee Patricia Quail, of Lilburn, and Bret Jones and his wife, Ami, of Conyers; brother, Clyde Jones and his wife, Eloise, of Lithonia; sister, Eleanor Howington and her husband, Dan, of Watkinsville; ten grandchildren, Justin, Jeremy, Amanda, Matthew, Kristin, Nicole, Derek, Jeremy, Jeffery, and Bryce; many great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and will be missed by many of his former Youth League players. The family would like to give a special recognition to our beloved niece, Joann Bankston Jones, for her loving help with our mother during this difficult time. A graveside service was held at Rock Chapel Cemetery on Saturday May 9, with Dr. Jim Martin officiating. A "Celebration of Bill's Life" will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Bill's family ask that a contribution be made in Bill's memory to the charity of your choice.