Billy H. Jones

He is preceded in death by his parents Ivan Homer and Zelma Walker Jones, his wife Helen Virginia and his two sons, Billy Homer Jr. and Ivan Homer III. He is survived by his sister Doris Young, Son Fred Jones and wife Karen, daughter Suzy Jones, grandchildren Brendan Neef, Gina Tuttle, Robbie Henderson, Shea Jones, Travis Jones, Garrett Jones and Haley Jones. He is also survived by 10 great grandchildren and longtime housekeeper and caregiver, Teresa Juarez

Known as “Wild Willy” to many and “Gramps” to so many others, Billy was born on August 25, 1927 in Houston Heights. He was a 1944 graduate of Reagan High School. Soon after graduation, he joined the US Merchant Marines at the age of 16. After completing his service, he married his high school sweetheart and favorite dance partner Helen on May 24, 1947. Following in his father’s footsteps he began his love of the automobile business. In 1953 he went to work at Earl McMillan ford selling new cars and supporting his family of four kids. He quickly went into management and worked for several organizations in different managerial positions. In 1972 he opened Ella Blvd Motors on the corner of Ella Blvd and West 34th. Billy remained very active in that business until very recent months.

Billy was involved in many charities throughout his life, but his greatest passion was his love and service for St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in the Heights. He and Helen joined St. Andrew’s at the age of 19 and began raising their family. Their love for St. Andrew was ingrained in their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Many of whom are still members today. He served many terms as vestryman, Jr. Warden, and Senior Warden. He cared deeply about the work and longevity of his parish. He loved his ministry as a Lay Eucharistic minister with Community of Hope. He served proudly on the board of Heights Towers and gave lovingly to the church discretionary fund because he knew it went directly to the needy. He became a private pilot at 50 and loved to fly his plane. He even turned that into loving act by flying for South Central Angel Flights as often as they needed him.

He served as the City of Houston Automotive Board Chairman, President Houston Independent Automobile Dealer Assoc. He was also awarded the H.I.A.D.A. Quality Dealer Award in 1994. He genuinely loved his association with the auto industry. On most days you would find him at the car lot hanging out with his customers and his employees. Billy had a love for life stronger than most. His love for life was centered around his family of whom he loved very dearly and was loved very dearly in return. He loved nothing more than to be surrounded by the kids and being there for them

In lieu of usual remembrances donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in the Heights 1819 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77008.

The family will welcome friends at a visitation to be held on Sunday February 24th from 2:00 pm till 5:00 pm at Pat H. Foley & Company Funeral Director’s. Memorial service will be held Monday February 25th at 12:00 pm at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 1819 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77008 Burial will be at Memorial Oaks Cemetery.