John Paul Jones Jr.

John Paul Jones Jr., affectionately known as Johnny, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, in Clifton, Texas, surrounded by those who cherished him deeply. Born on June 5, 1937, in Waco, Texas, Johnny’s life was a testament to devotion, hard work, and a profound love for his country and community. Johnny was a proud son of John Paul Jones, Sr. and Fay May Jones, and he was raised with the values that would guide him through a full and meaningful life. He attended University High in Waco, where his passion for music and pageantry bloomed as a bass drummer in the marching band—a passion for marching bands and music that stayed with him throughout his life. He served honorably in the United States Navy aboard the USS Alamo. This chapter of his life not only deepened his patriotism but also shaped the man who proudly flew the American flag at his home every day, a quiet and steadfast expression of his love for his country.

Johnny spent more than 30 years in service to the Texas Highway Department, a chapter of his life that spoke volumes about who he was. Colleagues and neighbors knew him as a reliable and capable man, always ready to help, and he found real meaning in the work of building and maintaining the roads that connect the communities of the state he called home. His dedication to a job well done was something all who knew him recognized and respected. Memories of Johnny paint a portrait of warmth and vibrancy: a big smile, a hat perched on his head, and a story always ready to be shared. He genuinely cared about the people in his life, making everyone feel welcomed and valued. His presence was a light at every gathering.

Beyond his work and family, Johnny’s passions were colorful—he held a deep love for classic country music, collected treasured 8-track tapes and CDs of his favorites, and never missed the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or the Rose Parade if he could help it. His love for Texas A&M traditions, especially the precision and spirit of the Aggie Band and the Corps of Cadets, was a defining joy in his life.

Johnny’s devotion extended to family in tender and meaningful ways. He was a devoted and loving husband to his late wife, Dorothy Gene Phillips Jones, caring for her and at her side through her final days. Following Dorothy’s passing, Johnny extended his selfless care to her aunt, Veleta Phillips, watching over her with the same quiet devotion. He left a lasting legacy of love and adventure for his niece and nephew, Robyn and Greg, whom he embraced as if they were his own children. Together, they explored the United States from coast to coast, each journey a classroom and every mile a memory made.

Johnny’s surviving family includes his sister Dianna Jones Scott and her husband Robert; his nephew Robert Gregory Scott and his friend Jimmy Boggs; and his niece Robyn Scott Moroso and her husband Dan. Alongside them is a community of friends, neighbors, and all who were fortunate to know a man who made every day a little brighter simply by being himself.

A graveside service will be held on June 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. at Mitchell Cemetery, County Road 2142, Iredell, Texas. It is there that Johnny will rest among those who loved him—a fitting place for a man whose life was rooted in faith, family, and dedication to the land and people of Texas.

John Paul “Johnny” Jones Jr. leaves behind a legacy of kindness, patriotism, and joy—a life well-lived and a heart deeply missed. His spirit shines on in the community he loved, the family he cherished, and the stories he shared with a smile and a twinkle in his eye. Rest in peace, Johnny. Your journey may have ended, but the road you paved with your love and kindness will forever guide those who knew you.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, Meridian, Texas 254-435-2792.