James “Jim” Loy Jones, Jr., a beloved family man, passed away on November 2, 2024, in St. Louis, MO at the age of 77 with his family by his side.

First born to James Loy Jones, Sr. and Lottie Lucille “Lou” Jones on April 27, 1947, in Bristow, Oklahoma, Jim’s life was defined by his love for family, his passion for golf, fishing and yard work, and his unwavering faith.

After graduating from Putnam City High School in Oklahoma City in 1965 where he played football and baseball he attended Oklahoma State University, Washington University and continued his dedication to his education by receiving his bachelor’s in business administration from Central State University (now University of Central Oklahoma) in Edmond, OK in 1981.

Jim served in the National Guard Reserve dedicating himself to the values of duty and community protection. His professional career spanned several respected institutions, including a 37-year career with the Southwestern Bell Corporation. Jim wasn’t finished working when he retired from Bell. He continued his career working for Beacon Communications and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission where he served in the energy and telecommunications divisions for 10 years, retiring in 2018. Throughout all these positions, Jim was very well respected and known for his meticulous work ethic and integrity. Many have said what a joy it was to work with and for him.

A man of many interests, Jim was an avid golfer, enjoyed fishing especially with his son, loved all genres of music and could often be found working in the yard or engaging in various DIY projects. Everyone was in awe of Jim’s beautiful yards, especially the one in Oklahoma City on Avalon Court. Although Jim was regarded as relatively quiet, his sense of humor and love for sarcasm brought joy to those around him and it wouldn’t be out of the ordinary for him to walk through the house and start singing one of his favorite songs.

Jim loved sports, especially those involving his children. He never missed an opportunity to watch Tracy cheer or attend one of Andy’s baseball or basketball games. He was known for his “passionate” interactions with referees and umpires. He loved watching St. Louis Cardinals’ baseball and Oklahoma Sooners’ football and while he enjoyed attending games his favorite place to watch was in his big, leather chair.

Jim was a devout member of Bonhomme Presbyterian Church in Chesterfield, MO when his children were growing up, and had also been an active congregant at Calvin Presbyterian Church and most recently Covenant Presbyterian Church, both in Oklahoma City, OK.

Jim leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Neta French Jones; daughter, Tracy Kathleen Labahn and her husband Steven; son, Andrew Jason Jones and many nieces and nephews who adored him, especially his great nieces, the Fahey sisters in Houston, Savannah Grace (15), Avery Ann (13) & Sydney Ruth (13). He was preceded in death by his parents, James Loy Jones, Sr. and Lottie Lucile Jones, as well as his sister, Janice Kay Brown.

The Jones family will welcome friends and loved ones to a Celebration of Life service to honor Jim’s s life and memory on March 29, 2025, at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Oklahoma City, OK. Specific details to follow. The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the outpouring of support and asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in James Jones name to The American Heart Association or the Oklahoma Medical Research foundation, honoring his legacy of generosity and service.

Jim’s life was a testament to the power of hard work, understanding, kindness and having a good time. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who knew him. The Jones family looks forward to sharing memories and celebrating the life of the man they loved so much.