Jean Jones

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Connie (Jean) Jones, a beloved, daughter, sister, aunt and friend departed this earthly life on May 11, 2026, in Joplin, MO.

Born on March 10, 1947, to Kenneth Jones and Kathryn Bowman, Jean was a lifelong resident of Joplin. After graduating from Joplin High School in 1965, she pursued a degree for physical education at Missouri Southern State College. While life took a different turn, she found her niche in the judicial system, serving as a dedicated Circuit Clerk for Division 2 to Judges Tom Elliston, George Baldridge, and David Dally. She formed many lifelong friendships while working at the courthouse. 

An athlete at heart, Jean excelled on the softball field. She passed on her love of softball to her nieces Cameron and Lauren as a teacher and a coach. As a formidable third baseman for the Killer Bees and Charley Flowers Packaged Liquor teams, she spent many seasons in the women’s softball league at Ewert Park, traveling for championships and bringing home numerous first-place trophies.

Jean’s love for animals was legendary. In the 1970s, she showcased her German Shepherds, Satan and Shatan, at national shows, where they secured blue ribbons consistently. Her dedication to their superior bloodlines left a lasting legacy. In her later years, she found great joy in rescuing cats, serving as a compassionate caretaker to those in need.

Jean will be remembered for her caring disposition and a steadfast, stubborn passion that fueled everything she chose to do. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Kathryn, her grandparents, and several aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her sisters Kathy Wade of Joplin, MO and Kimberly Grizzle (Jeff) of Carl Junction, MO; her niece, Cameron Burns (Jim) of Webb City, and nephew, Cory Vance (Kate) of St. Clair, Michigan; and three great-nephews; Elijah, Ean and Joey, and one great-niece, Grace. Jean is also survived by her cherished best friend, Pam Harrington (Dale), and her family, Lauren Valentine (Nathaniel) and daughter, Ailee, all of whom shared a love like family.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday May 23rd, 2026, at 2:00 PM, at College Heights Christian Church in the old chapel, 4311 E. Newman Rd, Joplin, MO 64801. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite sports team apparel.