James Jones

Blacksburg -- James Leonard Jones, 89, passed away on Friday, June 13th, 2014, at his home. Leonard was born in Hickory Grove, SC on August 5, 1924 to Henry Brodus Jones and Nettie Mae Lowry Jones. The family moved to Blacksburg before Leonard started school and he remained here until he passed. He attended Blacksburg public schools, graduating from Blacksburg High School in 1942. While in school, he was played the clarinet in the Blacksburg High School Band. After graduation, Leonard worked with his family in Jones Auto Repair until he enlisted in the United States Navy in December, 1942. He received his training in Lake City, FL and was assigned to the USS LST 597 in the Pacific Theater for the duration of WWII. His highest earned rank was Coxswain V6 and earned the following medals during the war: American Area Camp Metal, Asiatic-Pacific Camp Metal with two stars, Philippines Liberation Ribbon with one star, Good Conduct Bar, and the Victory Metal. Upon discharge from the USN, he returned to work with his father in Jones Auto Repair. After it closed, he opened his own shop. Later, he worked for the Eaton Corporation until his retirement. Leonard enjoyed boating, fishing, and flying airplanes. He has been a member of St. John's United Methodist Church since early childhood. He was also a member of the Buffalo Lodge #202 AFM for more than sixty years. In addition to his wife, Iva Jean Brooks Jones, and his parents, Leonard was preceded in death by his brother, Henry Miller Jones, and sister-in-law, Nell Green Jones. James Leonard Jones is survived by William "Bo" Jones and wife, Kay, of Shelby; two nephews, Jerry Jones and wife, Gail, of Florida, and Brice Jones and wife, Mickie, of Cornelius, NC; two great-nephews, Norman and Glen Jones and families of Florida; and a canine companion, Prissy. Also, Leonard leaves behind many first cousins in North and South Carolina. The family would like to express an appreciation for the loving, considerate, compassionate, and professional care given to Leonard and his family members by his long-time caregivers. They never failed to perform the smallest request without attention to the hour. The following caregivers who have become extended family members are as follows: Tracy Ledbetter, Sandy Patterson, Amy Manning, Judy Ross, Deanna Kirby, Chrystal Sewell, and Candace Jackson. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 18, 2014 from 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm at St. John's United Methodist Church. Funeral services will immediately follow at 1:30 pm with Rev. Don Boshell officiating. Interment with Military and Masonic rites will follow at Poplar Springs Baptist Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Gentiva Hospice of Spartanburg, 905 East Main Street, Stuite 2, Spartanburg, SC 29302-2182. The family will be at their respective homes. The Book of Memories is available at www.gordonmortuary.com.