Harold Jones

(From Parker Mortuary)

Harold Lee Jones, age 88, of Joplin, went to be with Jesus, his Savior on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin.

Harold, son of the late Charlie and Lela (Ross) Jones, was born on September 15, 1935, in Kennett, MO. After graduating high school, he began his career working for Belknap Hardware Co. in Louisville, KY. In his early 20s, he served honorably with the 82nd Airborne and became a Chaplain’s Assistant in Augsburg, Germany. 

After returning home, he was united in marriage to Clarice Riggs on February 15, 1959, in Pittsburg, KS. He continued his career in hardware and lumber in Springfield, MO and Butler MO. 

In 1983 Harold and Clarice moved to Bartlesville, OK where Harold was the manager of a local hardware and lumber yard for several years until he reached the season of retirement. Harold was never one to remain idle, always looking for what needed to be done. Harold's love of people was evident in every interaction, every handshake, every sincere word of advice he offered. His love of numbers helped him to be a successful businessman. He also offered wise counsel and encouraged others in stewarding their finances. 

He loved to listen to country music and gospel music and passed on that interest and talent to his family. Harold was a great leader who loved generously, even if people didn’t have a lot to offer in return. He was also a faithful servant in church throughout his life. To his family, he was an example of selfless love, generosity and faithfulness. He was a man of commendable character. We take heart in knowing that he is now in a place of everlasting peace and joy.

Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Clarice Jones, of Joplin; his children, Karen Derrick, and her husband, Dan, of Joplin, Jeff Jones, and his wife Lydia, of Plano, TX, Mike Jones, and his wife, Lisa, of Chandler, AZ, and Kim Church, and her husband, Jason, of Fort Worth, TX; one brother, Howard Jones, and his wife, Jeanie, of Sulfur, KY; 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Lela Jones.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Parker Mortuary in Joplin with burial to follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin. Memorial contributions may be made to the Baptist Children’s Home, 12700 E. 76th St. North, Owasso, OK 74055 or may be entrusted to the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.