James Edward Jones

Lt. Col. James Edward “Jim” Jones, ANG Ret., aged 87, passed away at home on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, in Heber Springs, Arkansas, after a brief battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his beloved wife and family. Jim was born on September 21, 1936, in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Jim led a life marked by dedication and service. He was a distinguished veteran of the Air National Guard, proudly serving his country for 36 years. He enlisted in 1955 and became a commissioned officer on January 16, 1960. As a member of the 154th Reconnaissance Squadron, Jim gathered photographic intelligence during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis and the 1968 seizure of the Pueblo boat and crew by North Korea. He was assigned to Little Rock Air Force Base in 1963 and served there until his retirement on September 21, 1991. He served 10 years in the role of Comptroller and was a member of the 189th Airlift Tactical Group.

Jim was married to his beloved wife, Frances, for 60 wonderful years. They met on a double date at Snappy’s Drive-In. The moment he laid eyes on her, he knew that she was the one he would marry. They grabbed each other’s hands and never let go. While raising three daughters and working full time, he pursued his education by attending night classes. His dedication paid off when he graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

Jim was a talented and creative man. If he wasn’t playing his harmonica, banjo, ukulele, or guitar, he would serenade his girls with his beautiful singing voice. He was a gifted artist and had a great sense of humor. Jim cherished his life by the river, where he spent countless hours trout fishing. As the river’s currents slowed, he too embraced the gentler rhythms of life. He loved crossword puzzles, Elvis and Sci-Fi movies. He found joy in sitting on the front porch, pipe in hand, watching the birds. He would call out to them, and they would joyfully mimic his sounds, creating a harmonious exchange. He loved his many rescue dogs.

Jim laid a foundation that enabled each of his children to embark on their own unique journey through life, fostering strong work ethics, love, joy, and laughter. He was a devoted and generous Pappaw to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His family, military service, and faith gave his life profound purpose and meaning. There can be no greater legacy than that.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Frances Jean Jones; their three children, Laura L. Jones, Lisa D. Wilson (Kenny), and Jami N. Andrews (Thomas); their grandchildren, Elizabeth Dussex (Matt), Katie Goodwin (Kyle), Hannah Milus (Lee), and Callen Wilson; five great-grandchildren, with another on the way in January; and his sister, Dalrene Gilbert. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dawell Edward Jones and Margaret Irene Jones, and his brother, Bob Jones.

Visitation will be held on Monday September 30, 2024 at 11:00 am at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, AR. Funeral Services at 12:00 pm with David Sirmans officiating. Burial will follow at 1:00 PM at Rest Hills Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Arkansas Hospice Foundation.