Dale Jones

Richard "Dale" Jones, 80, passed away at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale on January 9th, 2020 at 1:37pm surrounded by family.

He was born October 14th, 1939 in Marion, IL to Ralph and Rita Jones. Dale raced and bred horses when he met his first wife, Verlinda. After her passing, he married Sandra Cooper on July 1st 1978 in Marion, IL.  They shared 34 years of marriage and together had one son, Sonny Jones.

Dale later worked for the Williamson County Highway Dept before an accident left him disabled. Together he and Sandy enjoyed their love for horses, camping, drinking coffee in the swing and spending time with their family. After losing Sandy, Dale came to know his Lord and Savior and enjoyed attending Mt. Pleasant Church in Poordo. He spent the rest of his years growing closer to his son, daughter in law and grandchildren. He spent much of his time with his close friends, Gary Pearson and his family, and his pal Bud Merle. Dale loved his special breakfasts with his close friends and mowing his yard.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, and two wives. He leaves behind his son, Sonny (Sara) Jones of Johnston City and two grandchildren, Emma and Cooper Jones, one brother Bob (Dena) Jones of Marion and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2020 at 2pm at Blue Funeral Home in Marion with Rev. Robert Ray officiating.  Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.  Visitation will be on Sunday from 12pm until the time of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.