Joe Thomas Jones

Joe Thomas Jones, 94, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, July 13, 2009.

He was born in Ballinger, Runnels County, Texas on May 17, 1915 to parents, Floyd Meek and Lulla (Nard) Hill Jones. He was the twelfth of 15 children, with seven sisters and seven brothers, all deceased.

Joe married Lorene Shaddix. He is survived by their three children, Charles Jones, Gerald Dale Jones and wife, Darlene, and Kenneth Jones, all of San Angelo. He was preceded in death by daughter, JoAnn Burns.

Joe was proud to have served his country in the Navy during World War II. As a businessman he owned and operated several businesses in Ballinger, including Joe’s Wrecking, Travelers Motel, and the Stonewall Motel. He was still active in ranching until he was 92.

Joe was responsible for helping in the construction of several buildings in Runnels County. He used his gin poles to set the trusses on the old Jr. High School and on the school gym. The Seventh St. Baptist Church in Ballinger, which he helped build, held many fond memories for Joe, a charter member. For many years he taught Sunday school at the church, and he cherished the people from the community who worshipped there. He loved hunting and the friendship it brought. Joe hunted elk in rugged Colorado even after he was more than 80 years old.

Joe is survived by his wife of nine years, Ellon Monk. They lived in Abilene, Texas where they attended Southside Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Ueckert. They enjoyed their Sunday school class and church family. He had a stepdaughter, Vicki Copeland, and stepson, Billy Monk and wife, Pam. Together Joe and Ellon shared the love of 15 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.

Joe Jones spent his final days in residence at Legend Oaks in San Angelo. Family extends thanks to Becky and staff, Dr. Brewer and staff at Community Hospital, to VistaCare, and to a special friend, Ikee.

There will be a time of visitation on Friday, July 17 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Lange Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Saturday, July 18, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at Seventh St. Baptist Church in Ballinger with Rev. David Williams officiating. Burial will follow in Garden of Memories.