Former North Fork-area resident Jerry Lee Jones died on Wednesday, April 16, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction. He was 66.

On Nov. 8, 1941, Jerry Lee was born the son of S.T. McDonald and Theresa Maxine Wooden in Cushing, Okla. He spent his childhood and attended schools in Paonia.

On June 24, 1962, Jerry married the love of his life, Karen G. Propst, in Wichita, Kan. The couple were blessed with three children and over 45 years of love and marriage.
Jerry was employed as a miner and custodian for many years. He enjoyed fishing, camping, playing bingo and collecting music and videos. Most importantly, he loved and cherished his wife, children and grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 45 years, Karen Jones of Parachute; son Chris (Patty) Jones of Grand Junction; daughter Sheila Black and her companion David Doyal of Roswell, N.M.; brother Stan (Mary) Jones of Rockford, Ill.; and sister Donna (Roger Fitzpatrick) Walker of Parachute. Jerry is further survived by five grandchildren (with one on the way); and two great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by son Allen Jones; brother Mike Jones; and his father who raised him, Floyd Jones.

A funeral service was held Monday, April 21, at the Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Paonia with Glenn Ewing presiding. Interment followed at Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory.