Overton Jimmy Jones

Overton "Jim" Jones, a man whose life was defined by love, service, and a deep-rooted faith, passed away at the age of 79 in Dothan, Alabama, on March 1, 2026. Born in the humble beginnings of Malvern, Arkansas, on March 8, 1946, Jim's journey was one of determination, grace, and unwavering commitment to his family and country.

Jim's life was marked by his dedication to his family, which was his greatest pride and joy. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Eleanor Jones, and a loving father to his daughters, Tonia (Doug) Haymans and Christine (Rusty) Baughman. His role as a grandfather was one he cherished deeply, leaving a legacy of love and wisdom to his grandchildren, Ryan Baughman, Jacob Overton Haymans, Sarah (Seth) Cruver, Grace Evelyn Baughman, James Baughman, and Nathan Baughman, and his great-grandchild, Ruth Cruver. He was a brother to Dorothy Hilborn, Lavada (Bill) Byrn, and Jerri (Cliff) Crawford, and an uncle to several nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his first wife of 50 years, Judy Evelyn Jones, and his grandson, Tony Baughman.

A Vietnam Veteran, Jim served his country with honor and bravery as a Ranger in the US Army. He moved to Dothan in 1998, where he made a significant impact as a Human Resource Director. He was respected by his colleagues for his intelligence, work ethic, and ability to give sound advice.

Jim's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life. A member of Crossroads Baptist Church currently and was previously a member of 1st United Methodist Church for many years, he lived his faith through his actions and his words. His character was a testament to his beliefs – a faith-filled, loving, and intelligent man who was kind and caring to those he loved.

His interests and hobbies were a reflection of a life well-lived. Jim was known for his green thumb, particularly when it came to gardening. His competitive spirit shone through in his love for playing Bridge and watching sports, especially Auburn football, which he followed with passion. Jim relished the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time with his family, walking along the beach, and indulging in his favorite desserts – apple pie and vanilla ice cream.

Jim's legacy is one of strength, generosity, and wisdom. He was a hard worker, a good provider, and his frugality was a force to be reckoned with. His love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life, from the deep bond he shared with his grandchildren and to his many friends he loved.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Doug MacCormack officiating. Military honors will be rendered at the Sunset Memorial Park Helicopter Pavilion following the service. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 10-11 am. Serving as active pallbearers will be Jacob Overton Haymans, Ryan Baughman, Nathan Baughman, and Seth Cruver, with an honorary pallbearer role for his late grandson, Tony Baughman.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians and Care Team at Southeast Health Medical Center and to Southern Care Hospice for their compassionate care. Jim's light will continue to shine in the memories of those who loved him and in the values he instilled in his family. His life was a true embodiment of what it means to be a good person – and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.