Joseph "J.R." Jones

Joseph Richard “J.R.” Jones aka “The Legend”, 71, of Dennison, passed away while surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at Union Hospital in Dover after a lengthy illness. Born December 10, 1942 in Dennison, he was a son of the late William Edward and Mary Rose (Richards) Jones.

J.R. was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, having been stationed in Alaska from 1961 to 1963. A lifelong resident of the area with the exception of his military service, he began his 28 year career as a Tuscarawas County Deputy Sheriff in June of 1976. He retired in 2004 and is a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Police’s Tuscora Lodge #4. J.R. was a member of Roxford United Methodist Church, as well as a member of the Tusco Gun Club.

On June 22, 1963, he married Betty Jane “Sweetie” (Martin) Jones with whom he enjoyed over 20 years of marriage until her passing on August 4, 1983. They are survived by a son, Joseph E. “Eddie” (Wendy) Jones of New Philadelphia; a daughter, Jacqueline Marie “Jackie” (Larry) Roth of New Philadelphia; grandchildren, Travis (Jami) Roth, Chadler Roth, Madison Jones and Cade Jones; and great-grandchildren, Kash Roth and Peighton Roth. J.R. is also survived by a brother, David E. (Kathleen) Jones of Dennison; sisters, Jo (Larry) Shilling and Sarah “Peggy” Foutz of Dover; brother-in-law, Don Martin; sister-in-law, Blanche “Beth” Hill; aunt, Rose Menapace; numerous nieces and nephews; and many extended family members including cousins, Maryann and Terry Pennington, to whom he was especially close.

Family and friends are invited to call at the R.K. Lindsey Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 7. A private family service is planned. Interment will be with his beloved wife in Roxford Church Cemetery. Those wishing to honor J.R.’s memory by a charitable contribution are encouraged to do so to the American Cancer Society, in honor of Betty Jane “Sweetie” (Martin) Jones.