Obituary of Gary Warren Jones

Gary W. Jones , 87, of Belleville, IL, passed away on November 18, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents Warren and Nelsine (nee Frailey) Jones, and his son Timothy Jones. Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Sharon (nee Thomas) Jones; his children Thomas and Tracy (nee Browne) Jones, Tamalyn Jones, and Fuad and Teresa (nee Jones) Azman; his grandchildren Nick and Sarah (nee Jones) Ruder, Michael and Amanda (nee Jones) Hoffmann, Khaled and Danah (nee Hulaibah) Azman, Blake and Joanna (nee Tipsword) Jones, Hannah Azman, Rayan Azman; his great-grandchildren Willa and Lynleigh Ruder, Emerson and Caden Hoffmann, Omar, Faisal, and Rakan Azman; along with his sister Diane (nee Jones) Borowy, as well as sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews. Gary graduated from Western Military Academy in Alton, IL, where he made life-long friendships which became the Tuesday Brunch Group. Gary's greatest joy was his family. He also loved flying, fishing, hunting, tinkering on his farm, watching old westerns, and telling stories. Gary had a wide variety of interests and careers and a love of learning. His first job was at his father's business, Jimmy's Malt Shop on State Street in East St. Louis. He then followed his curiosity through The Airforce, computer technology and sales, and piloting and flight instruction. Throughout his illness, Gary was fully present and lived every moment to its fullest, inspiring both his friends and family. He will be remembered for his kind heart, strength, and generosity. Donations can be made in Gary's honor to Hospice.