Obituary of Gene L. Jones

Gene L. Jones, 91, of Cortland, NY passed away on April 22, 2014 in Zephyrhills, FL. Mr. Jones was born in Mondovi, Wisconsin to Clarence and Ella Jones on June 29, 1922. He arrived in Cortland by bus in 1936 with $1.50 in his pocket and went on to create a wonderful life for his family. He was Service Manager at Suburban Propane for many years and previously owned the Cortland Service Center. A veteran of WWII, Mr. Jones was in the U.S. Army Air Corps; he was also a former member of the Cortland County Planning Board. From building Microds to following his boy's high school football games, he was a great family man who enthusiastically encouraged their many activities. He received his well-deserved high school diploma through Operation Recognition in 2001. An antique car enthusiast and collector, Gene was also an avid garage saler. He often frequented the Homer Senior Citizens Center and loved the camaraderie, especially playing cards and joking with his friends. He is survived by his sons Gary (Susan) of Round Lake, NY and Stephen (Victoria) of Delmar, NY. His surviving grandchildren are Karianne Jones Silverman (Benny) of El Cerrito, CA, Katelyn Jones Rivera (Richie) of Teaneck, NJ, Graham Jones (Nicole) of Glendale, CA, and Mason Jones of Virginia Beach, VA, as well as by several great grandchildren. Mr. Jones is also survived by his companion and dear friend Louise Ballou of Kirkville, NY. He is preceded in death by his wife of nearly 59 years, Constance Jones. Visitation will be held Sunday August 3, 11 am -12 noon at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home, at noon the family will share some memories. Following the time of sharing we will process to the Cortland Rural Cemetery for a graveside services with military honors. Memorial donations may be made to the Homer Senior Citizens Center, 31 N. Main Street, Homer, N.Y, 13077. To offer online condolences visit www.wright-beard.com