FRANK HOWARD JONES

Frank “Howard” Jones, 81, of Callahan, met his Lord and Savior July 12, 2024. He was born May 22, 1943 in Jacksonville to Frank Pelzer and Helen Louise Jones. Howard grew up in the Arlington area of Jacksonville. He was proud of where he was raised and loved telling stories of his childhood and family memories. He enjoyed researching his family history and collecting old family pictures and taking new ones. Howard was an incredible father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend. Being a part of Howard’s life was a blessing to many.

Howard served his country as a United States Merchant Marine. He was also a member of the Arlington Historical Society, the Jacksonville Moose Lodge and a member of Crossroads Church in Callahan. Throughout his lifetime, he worked hard to provide for himself and his family. Howard started working at a young age at the Arlington Theatre, Parkhill-Goodloe Dredging Company and as a Supervisor at Jaxon Industrial Services, before retiring.

Later in life, Howard moved to Callahan, where he could finally enjoy the slower pace of life. He loved living in Callahan and enjoyed the peacefulness of living in the country. He enjoyed reading the paper on his front porch and looked forward to Saturdays and eating with friends at the Pig Barbeque. His hobbies included going to the Gatornationals, Antique Car Shows, watching softball, telling jokes and eating with family and friends. One of his favorite things was volunteering and helping out at his church. He really enjoyed the love and fellowship from his church family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Charles Jones; and sisters Louise Dickson, Kathleen Terry and Faith Jones. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer Jones; granddaughter Savannah Miller; and stepchildren Michael (Whitney) Forsythe and Michele Wright (John Lee). Brother, Ronald Jones; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Even though Howard had his own family, God had a different plan. God gifted Howard with a best friend Darrell (Sandra) Andrews, Sr.; and a bonus family that loved and adored him. Darrell, Sr. shared his family with Howard to give him a bonus family: Janice (David) Crawford, Wil Epps, Hope Epps, Janet (Gene) Clay, Peyton Bass, Darrell (Amanda) Andrews, Jr., Bubba, Makenna, Graci and Presley Andrews.

Howard was and will always be the final piece to our family. Our heart will forever be broken and a void that could never be filled. His sweet spirit, smile and laughter will be missed by us all. Heaven gained a wonderful soul on July 12.

A special thank you to UF Health Callahan, Dr. Lawson, Suzie Purvis and the office staff for going above and beyond to help Howard. He always felt loved and supported during every visit! Last but not least, go rest high Howie Baby. Your family loves you and will see you again.

The family will receive friends Thursday, July 18 from 1-2 p.m. prior to the funeral service at 2 p.m. at Hardage-Giddens Greenlawn Funeral Home, 4300 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, with Pastor Jeul Strickland officiating. Interment will follow the service at Greenlawn Cemetery.

Arrangements by Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home and Crematory.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.greenlawnjacksonville.com.