Jenny Willa Jones
July 27, 1982 - March 21, 2024
Jenny Willa (Clemons) Jones of Tehachapi, CA led her life as a selfless caregiver and educator who filled the world with joy through endless acts of kindness and compassion.
Born in Valparaiso, IN on July 27th, 1982, her parents, Leroy and Jane of North Judson, IN, instilled in their daughter a remarkable ability to connect with people, provide comfort, and give back. Jenny grew up alongside her loving older brother Josh. His steadfast mentorship and occasional sibling rivalry, along with her parents’ guidance, molded her into the incredible person she became.
On any given day Jenny could be found teaching children how to read, planning once-in-a-lifetime trips for her family to places like New York and Costa Rica, having meaningful conversations with a friend, crocheting a blanket, or simply saying “Hey, I love ya” in a text - she constantly brightened the day. She also loved spending time with a good book or sitting quietly with a cup of chai tea immersed in thought.
She gave her unconditional love to her high school sweetheart, Eli, from the day they met in 1999 at Culver Academies. Together they shared a love that grew through marriage in 2005 and raising their three amazing children.
Jenny’s spirit lives on through the remarkable traits that she shared with her kids. She instilled in her son Aiden a sensitive demeanor, passionate conviction for justice, and love of music; Elin exudes her mother’s spunky confidence and passion for art; and Edith lights up the world like her mom did with a quick wit and need to physically express love through near-constant “snuggles.” Jenny’s children will forever cherish the time they spent going to her classroom after school and constantly giggling while comparing “who is taller.”
Jenny’s natural ability to connect and willingness to talk about anything led to deep friendships. She was a source of unfailing support, whether it was as a fountain of pragmatic parenting advice, sitting with others in their grief, or sharing joy over meals. Jenny cared for others’ families as if they were her own.
On March 21, 2024, the love in Jenny’s heart was more than her physical heart could bear. She passed away at the age of 41 doing what she loved, educating children. Her passion left behind a legacy with the hundreds of students across Arizona, Maryland, Indiana, California, and beyond who benefited from her wisdom and teaching.
Gone far too soon, we are saddened by the loss of Jenny’s bright light upon the world but we are grateful for the enormous impact she had on every life she touched.
A Celebration of Jenny’s Life will be held on Friday, May 3, beginning at 5 p.m., with words of remembrance/ eulogy at 6 p.m., at the Dorner Family Vineyard in Tehachapi, CA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating "In Memory of Jenny (Clemons, CGA ‘01) Jones” to the Culver Academies at www.culver.org/makeagift. To ensure your contribution is directed to a cause that was important to Jenny, be sure to note that your contribution is "In Memory of Jenny Jones” or “Jenny (Clemons, CGA ‘01) Jones.” Thank you!