It is with regret we announce the passing of Mr. James Earl Jones, age 81, of Kelso, TN. James was born on July 28, 1938 in Franklin County, TN to the late Elmer “Buck” and Vera Pauline Smith Jones. He passed away on April 17, 2020 at Donalson Care Center.

Mr. Jones worked as a material spreader for the Lee Company, Blue Ridge Shirt Plant, and Jonathan Logan. He was a member of West Fayetteville Church of Christ.

Survivors include his son, Anthony “A.J.” (Nikki) Jones of Kelso; grandchildren, Eric Owens, Amanda (Brian) Curtis, Daniel (Crystal) Owens, Charlise Jones, and Clay Jones; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Ray (Becky) Jones of Lexie Crossroads in Belvidere; sister, Linda Poarch of Fayetteville; and several nieces, nephews and special friends. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Juanita Gulley Jones in 2011, and daughter, Phyllis Hunter Owens in 1997.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic there will be no public gathering at this time. A private family service will be held with Bro. Tom Russell officiating and burial in the Kelso Cemetery. The family invites you to share memories at higginsfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Lincoln County Tribute Chair, Cary B. Sullivan, P.O. Box 470 Fayetteville, TN 37334.

Higgins Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Mr. James Earl Jones.