Obituary of Paul LeRoy Jones

Columbia - Paul (Roy) LeRoy Jones, 83, of Columbia, South Carolina passed away December 16, 2014 at his home in Columbia, South Carolina. Mr. Jones was born on June 23, 1931 in Augusta, Georgia to Broadus and Ruth (Evans) Jones. Paul was a proud Air Force veteran serving with the 114 AC & W Squadron during the Korean Conflict. He was given the task, while stationed in Germany, to inventory artifacts taken by Hitler during WWII. He was retired from the U.S. postal service after 32 years as a letter carrier. Paul was a dedicated family man, a doting husband, loving father and a proud grandfather. He cared for all animals, often taking in stray animals. Paul was ever welcoming to those around him, a strong Christian man; he lived by the idea that everyone was welcome at his table. Paul even made sure that there were extra presents around the Christmas tree, just in case. He enjoyed boating, the outdoors, and taking the family on tractor rides through the woods. Paul most enjoyed his family. He loved them dearly, and would not miss any opportunity to gather them together. Christmas, Thanksgiving and even birthday parties were embraced as a chance to express love and caring for each other. He was a member of Spring Valley Baptist Church. Additionally, he had been a member of the Scottish Rite Masonic Lodge and Jamil Shrine Temple. Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Betty Jean Jones of Columbia, SC; Daughters, Deborah J. Jones of Columbia, SC and Shirley J. Cooper (David) of Columbia, SC; grandsons, Justin P. Jones, Robert E. Cooper and Paul S. Cooper, of Columbia, SC; and a brother, R. E. Jones. Paul is also survived by several nieces, nephews and his six furry companions. He was predeceased by his parents and a nephew, Tommy Jones. The family will receive friends at Thompsons Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209 on Sunday, December 21, 2014 from 4 PM - 6 PM. Burial will be at Ft. Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229 on Monday, December 22, 2014 at 11AM with Dr. Robert Winburn and Chaplin Valerie Hunt officiating. Memorials may be made to Spring Valley Baptist Church, 910 Polo Road, Columbia, SC 29223, Pets Inc., PO Box 6394, W. Columbia, SC 29171, or to Pruitt Hospice, 1055 St. Matthews Road, Orangeburg, SC 29115. The family wishes to express their appreciation to Pruitt Hospice for their loving support and care.