James Jones Sr.

On December 24, 1938, James Jones Sr. was born to the late JC Jones and Mandy McKay Jones in Jackson County, Florida.  He was the fifth oldest child of 12 children.  He was preceded in death by daughters, Janice Lowman, Marvis Johnson, and Susie Jones; brothers, George and Joseph Jones; sisters, Savannah Gilbert, Neater Evans, Sarah Jackson and Annie Mae Rentz. Grandsons, Dewan Lowman and Caleb Jones; great-grandson, Trayon Goff. 

At an early age, James joined Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Malone, Florida.  He attended McChapel and Union Grove Schools in Greenwood, FL.  He later relocated to Manatee County where he worked in construction and at Lyn-craft Boat Company where he specialized in making boat molds.  He honed his craft and later established his own business, J & J Fiberglass Products, where he worked until his health began to decline (more than 50 years).  

One of his favorite past times was cooking and barbequing for his family and friends. He was also known for his love of farming. He always had something growing from vegetables to beautiful roses.

James united in marriage to Carrie Mae Watkins in 1960 and to this union three children were born: Susie Jones, Rose Heaven and James Jones Jr.

James departed this life on Tuesday, January 12th.  He leaves to cherish his precious memories: Daughter, Rose Heaven; son, James (Stephanie) Jones Jr.; two brothers, Edward and Charlie Jones; three sisters, Emma Whipper, Maggie (Robert) Mount and Rebecca (Charlie) Dobbins; brother in law, RB Watkins; sister in law, Ceila Shoates; two sons-in-laws, Martin Johnson and Jerome Heaven; five grandchildren, Tiki Lowman, Kenyata (Clyde) Felton, Martin Johnson, Isaac Heaven and Rayna Heaven; 7 great grandchildren; 7 great-great grandchildren; a loving and devoted companion, Laverne Taylor; and a host of relatives and sorrowing friends.   Graveside service 10:00am Monday, January 18, 2021 at Mansion Memorial Park in Ellenton, Florida under the direction of Apostle I Funeral Home.  Please visit our  tribute page to light a candle or right a condolence in honor of Mr. Jones.

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