4-29-2023 11:26am

Raymond Jones never sat still

Raymond (Ray) Jones was born to Robert and Lilian Jones on January 31,1935. He attended school in Chicago. Following his graduation from high school, he joined the United States Navy. After serving his country, Ray spent the next 37 years in various positions at Illinois Bell. He was a lineman as well as in management. Evan after retiring, he was never one to sit still.

He continued to work for a few years at Rockwell International. After officially retiring, he and his wife Carole moved to Loves Park, IL. where they volunteered with numerous organizations including the senior division of Americorps. He became involved in activities at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Rockford, including as a church trustee, and worked with students in the Rockford School District.

In his spare time, Ray enjoyed doing projects around the house and for friends and family. He was the person to call if you needed a tool or help fixing something.

More than anything, Ray loved being with his wife Carole, whom he called “Blue Eyes” and taking care of his grandchildren. If he was with his family, he was a happy man. Ray loved the Lord with every fiber of his being. Anyone who spent time with him never said goodbye without hearing the words “Have a blessed day.”

Ray passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in Rockton, leaving his earthly pain behind and walked into the arms of Jesus.

He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. Ray is survived by his loving wife Carole. The couple were married nearly 38 years. He is also survived by his children, Keith (Sherry) Jones, Michael (Karen) Anderson, and Stacy (Dan) Ross; his grandchildren, Neil, Nathan, Lee, and Sam; brother from another mother, Bill (Wendy) Langer; sister-in-law, Vicki Langer; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Robert Jr. and Denny.

Visitation will be from 5 - 8 p.m. on Monday, May 1, 2023 in Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory-Mulford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford Road, Loves Park, IL 61111. Funeral service will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, May 2, in Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, IL 61107 with a visitation beginning at 9:00am. A private burial will take place at a later time in Elmhurst, IL. Memorials may be made in Ray's name to Mount Olive Lutheran Church where good work can continue to happen there in his memory.