Thomas A Jones

Tom Jones passed away peacefully the morning of March 18, 2015 after a rapid decline of health. He was born in Muncie, Indiana on April 3, 1947. In December 1970, Tom left the cold Midwestern winter weather and moved to Southern California. He loved to tell the story of his first California Christmas: a morning at the beach and an afternoon romp in the snow in the foothills with his dogs.

He loved to make music. Tom was an accomplished guitarist and frequently played bass for worship sessions. His voice was beautiful and he could harmonize with the rest of the chorus. He also loved to write, especially humorous offerings. During USC football season Tom would send out “my opinion” essays commenting on any and all things that struck his fancy.

Tom resumed his education at Ventura College and then went on to attend the University of Southern California, where he graduated in 2001with a B.A. in communication. He was an avid USC sports fan and every venue: the Coliseum, Galen Center, and North gym echoes with his big bass voice yelling “Go Trojans”.

Tom was a big-hearted, gregarious, loving man with a deep voice and infectious laugh that invited others to enjoy the fun. When family and friends gathered, he was at the heart of the action. Children used his strong arms as a jungle gym, laughter followed wherever he went. He celebrated everything, especially life.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, daughter Vanessa (Devoney), sisters Karen Dowty and Jo Gayde, nieces, nephew and many friends.

A Memorial Service is scheduled for April 10, 2015 at 4:00 PM at the Charles Carroll Funeral home in Ventura, CA.