Mr. James Linward Jones, passed away Friday, December 6, 2024.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, December 19, 2024 11 am New Faith Baptist Church 4607 Tower Road Greensboro, North Carolina. Visitation 10:30 am.

Burial will follow at Salisbury National Cemetery 2 pm.

James Lenward Jones, affectionately known as Len, O'Jones, Mr. Jones, Brother Jones, or simply Jones was born on September 27, 1947, in Council, North Carolina. He was the firstborn child of Jim P. and Althiea Jones, and the oldest of five siblings, serving as the protector of his younger brother and three sisters. From an early age, Len took pride in his appearance and developed a keen eye for fashion, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

As a young boy, Len also cultivated a love for fishing, hunting, dancing, singing in the church choir, and, notably, cars. In high school, he was known for his impeccable sense of style, a reputation he maintained throughout his life. Additionally, Len had a meticulous hand when it came to writing, a trait he was proud of.

After graduating from East Arcadia High School in Riegelwood, North Carolina, in 1965, Len was drafted into the United States Army. He served honorably in the 82nd Airborne Paratrooper Unit in Vietnam, earning the respect and admiration of those around him. After his honorable discharge in 1968, Len relocated to Connecticut, where he would live for the next 25 years alongside other family members who had also migrated from North Carolina.

In Connecticut, Len raised his family and built a successful career as a machinist. He was known for his strong work ethic, often balancing two jobs to ensure the well-being of his loved ones. Over the years, he worked at St. Raphael's Hospital, Sears, and Pratt & Whitney, always striving to provide for his family. Len was a devoted family man and enjoyed gathering with his siblings, children, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was known for his hands-on approach to life, always busy painting, building, or fixing things around the house. His meticulous attention to detail extended to the upkeep of his homes, cars, and personal appearance.

In 1993, James Lenward Jones returned to North Carolina, where he made his home and continued his work as a machinist at Gibbs and Phoenix Precision Machining Companies. While in North Carolina, James remained true to his passions—hunting, golfing, fishing, attending gun and car shows, and vacationing in Myrtle Beach. Above all, he put God first and became a founding member of New Faith Baptist Church. There, he served faithfully as the head of both the usher board and security.

James connected deeply with those around him, and one person in particular who played a significant role in his life was his spouse, Avis Graham. Together, they shared many years of building cherished memories until his untimely passing. James leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him for his kindness, strength, and dedication to those he loved.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Jim P. and Althiea Jones, and his youngest sister, Ola Mae Jones.

He is survived by his spouse, Avis Graham of North Carolina; his children: Karen D. Jones of New Jersey, Terri L. Jones, James Eric Jones, and Dixie Hatcher (Eric) of Connecticut; his grandchildren: Joshua Guzman of Connecticut and Jordan Wingate-Jones of New Jersey; one brother, John Jones (Carolyn) of North Carolina; two sisters, Peggy Johnson of New Jersey and Diane Jones of Connecticut; a host of nieces and nephews, Grahams, other family and friends.

James will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.