In Loving Memory of Johnnie Lewis Jones

In Loving Memory of Johnnie Lewis Jones
May 4, 1940 – August 1, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the family of Johnnie Lewis Jones announces his passing on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the age of 85. Johnnie departed this life peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by the love of his family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Born on May 4, 1940, in the quiet countryside of Henry County, Johnnie was raised with strong values, deep-rooted in hard work, humility, and integrity. The son of sharecroppers, he learned early the importance of perseverance and responsibility. These lessons would guide him through every chapter of his life.

Johnnie was a proud graduate of Henry County High School, where he was known for his sharp intellect and steady determination. After school, he served honorably in the United States Army, where he developed a deep sense of duty, discipline, and camaraderie that remained with him long after his military service ended.

Upon returning home, Johnnie married the love of his life, Margaret Elaine (née Carter), and together they built a beautiful life over six decades of marriage. Their union was one of strength and grace, a true partnership filled with laughter, devotion, and shared dreams. They raised four children, instilling in them the same values Johnnie lived by: respect for others, love for family, and the courage to stand for what is right.

Johnnie spent over 40 years working in the manufacturing and logistics industry, most notably at the Goodyear plant, where he was a respected supervisor and mentor to many younger workers. Colleagues remember him as a steady hand, a problem-solver, and someone who always made time for others. Even in retirement, Johnnie continued to lend a helping hand, offering advice, wisdom, and support to anyone who needed it.

A man of deep faith, Johnnie was a lifelong member of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Henry County. There, he served as a deacon, trustee, and Sunday school teacher. His voice rang out in the men’s choir, and his presence was a comforting constant for generations of congregants. Whether praying with a neighbor, visiting the sick, or organizing church picnics, Johnnie lived his faith through service.

Outside of work and church, Johnnie loved gardening, fishing, and watching baseball—especially his beloved Atlanta Braves. He also took great pride in his vegetable garden, which he tended with care every season and shared generously with friends and neighbors. But above all, he cherished time with his family. His children and grandchildren fondly remember his captivating stories, his hearty laugh, and the quiet strength that made them feel safe and loved.

Johnnie is preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Edna Jones; his brothers, Nathaniel and Robert; and a granddaughter, Tamara Jones. Though we mourn his absence, we take comfort in knowing he has been reunited with those he loved and missed dearly.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Elaine Jones; his children: Cynthia (Derrick) Hayes of Birmingham, AL; Jerome (Patricia) Jones of Atlanta, GA; Monique Jones of Richmond, VA; and Anthony (Lisa) Jones of Charlotte, NC. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who all cherished his wisdom, humor, and unshakable spirit.

A celebration of Johnnie’s life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Mount Zion Baptist Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM and the service at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Henry County Memorial Gardens.

Though he may be gone from our sight, Johnnie Lewis Jones will live on in our hearts forever. His legacy is not just in the years he lived, but in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, strength, and love. May we honor his memory by living as he did—with grace, faith, and a heart full of compassion.

Rest well, Johnnie. You have earned your heavenly reward.