Ronald R. Jones

Ronald Robert Jones, a loyal and loving son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend died on July 16, 2024. He was 86.

Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Georgia Marie Swan Jones, his father, Joseph Theodore Jones, and his sister, Sara Sue Michie.

Ron is survived by his much beloved wife Maureen and their blended family including children Michael David Jones of St. Louis, Stephen Patrick Jones (and wife Vickie) of Memphis, Tennessee, Kevin Andrew Jones of Hermann, Sheri Triller (and husband Michael) of Wentzville, Jeffrey Magditch (and wife Jennifer) of Wentzville, his grandchildren, his brother, Donald David Jones (and wife Ella) of Galena, Missouri, his cousin Anni Sanderlin of Pilot Knob, Missouri, and his many nieces and nephews and their families. Ron loved them all dearly.

Ron and his twin brother were born on July 24, 1937. Ronnie and Donnie, along with their little sister Susie and cousin Annie, grew up in Ironton, Missouri, and forged close bonds that extended the duration of their lives.

After graduating from the University of Missouri at Columbia with a Master's degree in Elementary Administration, Ron embarked on a career in education, serving as an elementary school principal in the Hazelwood School District for 34 years. Ron worked tirelessly to ensure that the children who attended his schools had their educational (and many other) needs met. He truly had a servant's heart.

Ron's role as father was his most important and he carried the poem "A Successful Dad" in his wallet for many years as a reminder that his little fellows were always watching. He led by example, prioritizing family. Ron was an active and engaged father and enjoyed carving out time for vacations, band and sporting events, golf, fishing and camping, and grilling weekend meals.

Ron always made room to widen the circle, welcoming new members into the family with a warm hug and an open heart. He was an attentive grandfather, always enthusiastic about his grandchildren's latest developments and accomplishments.

Ron's quick wit, easy laugh, generosity, and kindness endeared him to all who knew him. His hobbies included morning coffee, golf, watching Cardinals baseball, and traveling with Maureen when they were able, but he was happiest just being in the company of family and friends, sharing jokes or watching the hummingbirds from his porch.

Ron's life will be celebrated by the family privately. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ron's name to the St. Louis Area Foodbank at STLFoodbank.org.