James "Jimmy" Jones, Sr.

It is with profound sorrow and boundless love that we announce the passing of James "Jimmy" Jones, who left us peacefully on February 10, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama, following an extended illness. Born on October 1, 1941, in Coaling, Alabama, Jimmy was a beacon of courage and joy throughout his 82 years of life.

Jimmy's early life in Coaling was marked by his adventurous spirit and mischievous nature, often described as a real rascal and a consummate prankster. His love for his country was as deep as his Alabama roots, leading him to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps at the tender age of 17. During his service, he proudly served as a Paratrooper, was actively involved through the Cuban Crisis, and continued his commitment in the Reserves for an additional two years. Those who knew him will forever remember his fearless and protective nature, which he carried throughout his life.

After his honorable discharge, Jimmy returned to Tuscaloosa County and dedicated himself to the State Highway Department until he moved to Webb in 1968 after marriage. He continued with the State Department until 1979, when he opened his own business in electronics and appliance repair. His work ethic was unparalleled as his evenings and weekends were filled with farm and cattle work, as well as numerous cookouts for neighboring businesses on the block.

Jimmy's zest for life was evident through his hobbies; he was an avid outdoorsman who found solace and excitement in hunting and fishing. His love for bow hunting deer, dove, and quail, along with his passion for fishing, were just a few of the ways he connected with nature and those he loved.

He was a loving husband to his wife, Barbara May Jones, and a devoted father to his children, Aimee Jones Berryman (married to Michael) and James E. Jones, Jr. (married to Milene). His legacy continues through his five grandchildren, James III, Lauren, Melany, Ashley, and Alaina. Jimmy's brother, William "Billy" (married to Ramona) Jones, will fondly cherish the memories of their brotherhood. Jimmy was preceded in death by his mother, Erma Lucille Edwards Tatum, his daughter, Shannon Kay Jones, and his half brothers, S. E. "Ed" Manderson and Leon "Hot Shot" Manderson.

It is a fitting farewell to a man who lived by the words of Winston Churchill: "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Jimmy Jones certainly made a beautiful life by giving of himself to his family, his friends, and his country.

In life, Jimmy was a pillar of strength, a source of laughter, and a guardian to those he held dear. In passing, he leaves behind a legacy of love, a multitude of cherished memories, and a community enriched by his presence. May we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in each of us whose lives he touched.

"We don't have to rely on memories to recapture the spirit of those we have loved and lost - they live within our souls in some perfect sanctuary which even death cannot destroy." Nan Whitcomb.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com

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