Joe Jones Jr.

"O when I come to the end of my journey,
Weary of life, and the battle is won,
Bearing the staff and cross of redemption,
He'll understand and say, "Well done!""

Joe Nathan Jones Jr. was born on September 17, 1945 to the Late Youla Beatrice Jones and the Late Joe Nathan Jones, Sr.

Joe was known to some as “Bobby’”, and later in life known as “Lex” by others.

Joe attended Craven County Public Schools and graduated  Valedictorian of the 1964 Class of The New Bold High School in Fort Barnwell, North Carolina.

In October 1964 , he enlisted in the United States Air force and acted as an  airplane mechanic until December 1968. During his time in the military, he received a small arms expert marksmanship ribbon, a Vietnam service Medal, and an Air Force Good Conduct Medal among other commendations.

After his honorable discharge from the United States Air Force in 1968, he began a 35 year career with DuPont Manufacturing Company.

Joe had a love and passion for bowling. While employed at DuPont, he participated with the DuPont Bowling League whereas he received many trophies and awards.

In 1969, Joe married and during those 26 years, he was blessed with two daughters; Shannon and Teshone.

Later after divorce, Joe met his long-time companion, Linda Murrell, where their relationship was maintained until his transition.

In retirement, Joe began a new endeavor and pursued his real estate license and working briefly in real estate.

Joe was tested, tried and then won his battle with prostate cancer, he later felt as though he was a prime candidate to help others while they were being tested therefore; Joe also served as a facilitator of the Lenoir County Man to Man Cancer Support Group.

Joe was also a dutiful volunteer with UNC Lenoir Memorial Hospital, where he served for 4 years.

Joe became a covenant member of Jumping Run Church in LaGrange under the leadership of Bishop William Anthony Lawson, whereas he was a member in good-standing and remained faithful until his health declined.

Joe has always had a love for cars, clothes, jewelry, but most of all, he loved God, his family, and friends! He was a very proud, private, and dedicated individual who loved to talk and will definitely be missed by many.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sibling, Charlie Jones.

He leaves to cherish precious memories; two daughters Shannon Bland (Dana) and Teshone Jones, one grandchild, Rashell Bland, one brother, Joseph Jones, Joes' companion, Linda Murrell and her two daughters, Bonita Murrell, Lisa King (Anthony), her granddaughter, Miranda Gavin, and a host of many cousins, other relatives and friends.

Services will  be held on Friday, November 10, 2017 from the Jumping Run FWB Church (4308 Jumping Run Church Road - LaGrange, NC 28551) at 11: 00 AM. Burial will take place in the Pinelawn Memorial Park. A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 9, 2017 from 4:00-7:00 PM in the Robert Swinson Jr. Memorial Chapel.

​In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations to the American Cancer Society.

Please keep the Jones Family in your thoughts & prayers during these days of bereavement

Sympathy Cards & Floral Arrangements may be sent to Swinson Funeral Services 208 East Blount Street - Kinston, NC 28501.