James R. ‘Jim’ Jones

GLENDALE – James R. Jones passed away on Father’s Day, June 17, 2018, after a long illness. He was 86. Born on December 19, 1931 to Isabelle (Hinson) and Glenn Jones of Concordia, Kansas, Jim was the youngest of six sons. He grew up in rural Kansas and, after graduating from high school in 1949, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. In 1952, Jim was sent to Luke Field in Arizona to instruct mechanics about hydraulics. It was there at a USO dance that he met the love of his life, Betty Robison, and they were married three months later. His family was very important to Jim, and he worked tirelessly to provide for them. During his life he was a mechanic, a cement finisher, and a fire captain, retiring from the Phoenix Fire Department in 1981. Jim was strong, brave, and loyal. He enjoyed catch-and-release fishing and birdwatching and loved children and animals. He had a dry sense of humor and enjoyed pulling one over on his listeners—it was easy to believe his many tall tales. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, after 58 years of marriage; as well as by his parents; and brothers John, Everett, Harold, Lester, and Ross. Surviving Jim are his children James Stephen Jones; Linda Snelson (Lanty); Laura Jones (Bill Kirk); his grandson Aaron Kirk; many nieces and nephews; and many furry friends. Dad will be sorrowfully missed. Services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday July 3, 2018 at Hansen Chapel, 8314 N. 7th St., Phoenix 85020. Visit http://www. hansenmortuary.com for condolences.