Franklin Lon Jones, 69, who everyone knew as Lon, Little Lon, or Lonnie, died peacefully in his home Wednesday evening surrounded by his devoted wife, children, and grandchildren. The only son of Fannie Irene Jones and Alonzo (Lonnie) Bruce Jones, his life was characterized by his extraordinary passion for his work and true kindness to all that crossed his path.
Lon could be said to be the best dad, Poppi, cousin, friend, neighbor, coach, co-worker, contractor, and handyman this world has known. He got his gift for know-how, work-ethic, and craftmanship from the Jones side of the family and his passion, caring, and humanity from the Ferri side. He was one of a kind, a gift to this world and will be missed beyond words.
Lon adored his wife Lilly, who was always there for him throughout 37 years together including 32 years of marriage and was the rock that he leaned on during the last few months of his life. Lon used to tell everyone that he was the boss in the relationship, but just don’t tell Lilly he said that. He was truly dedicated to her and his three children. It is cliché’, but his kids will tell you they would not be where they are today without the understanding and support of their dad. During the good times, Lon would be there rooting on his children and amplifying their successes. During the tough times, “father” as Jenni would call him, would lecture his kids, while at the same time doing everything in his power to ease the difficulties they were facing. Nobody wanted their kids to be happy more than their dad, and he indeed did everything in his power to see that they were.
Lon was also a man who was genuinely immersed in his work. From his beginnings as member of a timbering crew, to the mine safety team, to the land manager at Beaver Coal Company, to the independent jobs he did post-retirement; no one was more dedicated to getting it right. However, he would tell you his best job was being Poppi for his grandkids, and he would do anything for any of them at the drop of a hat.
Lon had a true passion for fishing and loved spending days at the Lively Cabin on the Greenbrier River by himself or with his family. He enjoyed golfing, was an avid reader, a diehard WVU fan and the number one listener to his son’s podcast. He truly was a special friend, coach, and mentor to many. Those who know him will tell you that he not only molded the lives of his children, but also his children’s friends who knew him as Coach, Mr. Jones, or Lonnie.
Born on May 21, 1954, Lon was preceded in death by his father, mother and twin sister, Frances Lynn Jones, who he adored as much as life itself. He never liked to celebrate his birthday after Lynn’s passing, because of how much he missed his older (by seven minutes) sister. They shared a bond that words cannot describe, and we know she was the first one that greeted him when his spirit left this human world.
Lon is survived by his loving wife Lilly, son Joshua (Natasha) Jones, daughter Jennilin (Shane Parsons) Jones, and son Blake Jones, his grandchildren, Jonah Reese Bruce Parsons, Elias Grant Page Parsons, Isaac Kai Loughrey, Hendrix Braelynn Lee Parsons, Aspyn Sawyer Jean Rosier and Evelynn Jean Jones, and so many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and life-long friends who touched his life as he touched theirs.
The family would like to thank all the angels that assisted with his care from friends and family and to all the caring individuals at New River Health Association, CAMC Memorial Hospital, Appalachian Medical, Center Well Home Health, and the Dr. Carl Larson Cancer Center.
Memorial mass will be held Saturday, September 9th at 12:05 pm at Saints. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Oak Hill, WV, with a reception to follow at the school cafeteria provided by the Staints. Peter and Paul Ladies Guild.
Online condolences may be sent at www.tyreefuneralhome.com.
Arrangements by Tyree Funeral Home, Oak Hill.
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