Donald Lee Jones

DONALD LEE JONES, 84, of Sherwood, Ark., passed away Saturday, September 24, 2022. He was born on October 7, 1937, in Fayetteville, Ark., to the late Farris Lee and Gladys (nee: Sumner) Jones. He was married to the love of his life, Carla (nee: Nofziger), for 60 years. Carla predeceased him in 2017. Don proudly served this country as a member of the United States Air Force. He began his career stationed at Little Rock AFB in the 314th AMS. During his service he was a member of the 89th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Andrews AFB. While stationed there he was a recipient of the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He ended his career where he began it at the Little Rock AFB returning to the 314th. Don retired as a SMSgt after 22 years of service. Don's military service led to a career in aviation in the private sector from which he retired after 20 years. After retirement, Don enjoyed watching classic westerns and sitcoms. He always seemed to make a positive, long‐lasting impression on those with whom he came into contact – whether it be co workers, friends, or family. As evidenced by his lengthy marriage and two committed careers, one of the recurring themes in Don's life was fidelity. Don's fidelity to his family was readily apparent since his house was often filled with its members for summers, holidays, and his famous spaghetti dinners. Facebook was a site in which he readily participated. Whether making his own posts or liking and commenting on posts of his friends and family, he enjoyed the format. Don saw his participation in Facebook as another avenue to demonstrate his love for family and friends. When not feeding the family or on Facebook, Don thoroughly enjoyed playing Texas Hold'em. He often loved taking trips to Vegas or Tunica with Carla to play poker. His favorite Texas Hold'em games, by far, were the tournaments played with his family at his home. Don leaves a legacy of love in those who survive him in his extensive family. He is survived by his sister, Linda Gritten of Liberty, Mo. He leaves three children: Ginger Goldsberry (Don) of Hernando, Miss.; Dale Jones (Audrey) of Boise, Idaho; and Dean Jones (Candy) of Hot Springs, Ark. There are nine grandchildren: Jennifer Johnson, Jeff Waters, Ann Brown, Derek Jones, Adrianna Jones, Donovan Jones, Sara Schaffner, Dawson Jones, and Sophie Jones. His 10 great‐grandchildren include Cameron McCain, Brittany McCain, Sierra Waters, Patrick Waters, Ashlynn Davis, Laken Brown, Tallon Brown, Parker Strom, Devon Strom, and Malia Clyburn. The fourth generation consists of five great‐great‐grandchildren: Evelyn McCain, River Strom, William Davis, Wyatt Davis, and Weston Davis. An informal celebration of life will be held at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, September 28, 2022, with Pastor Dean Fagley officiating. Burial will follow at Rest Hills Memorial Park. griffinleggettresthills.com.