Obituary of Richard Joseph Jones

Jesus said,"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know." John 14:1-4On December 27, 1941, Deacon Richard Joseph Jones was born to the late Richard James North and Ada Jones-North in the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. He was educated in the Louisiana public school system, as well as receiving technical medical training from the Ochsner Foundation.Deacon Jones married Mother Betty Ann Jones on August 19, 1978.Deacon Jones was blessed with six children, Richard Jones, Jr., Cary Jones, Minyarn Ellis, Misty Knight, Pastor Marlow Jones, and Mark Jones. From these six children, eighteen grandchildren were born, and three great-grandchildren.Deacon Jones was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. His children describe him as a loving person. In remembering a few words of wisdom from his father, Pastor Marlow said, "He always imparted to them the importance of caring for other people." The grandchildren also had kind words to say about their "Paw, Paw," as they called Deacon Jones. Even while giggling, his granddaughter Jade said that, "Paw, Paw was a very funny man, he was always doing something to make us laugh." He always said to me "Paw, Paw is proud of you, never forget that and you're gonna do great things!" stated Kaia, Deacon Jones' granddaughter. This is proven to be true, with Kaia currently studying to be a physician at Denver University.Deacon Jones worked as a Research Technician at the Ochsner Foundation for many years. He was highly respected by his peers and was often placed in charge of training medical staff within the facility. Graduate students often returned to thank (Deac) for his unique style of teaching as they entered various medical careers.No matter what the situation, we know (one thing)!! Deacon Jones loved his family. He often became a dependable chauffeur for all his grandchildren in Colorado Springs, Colorado, while making them laugh with his old-school jokes and stories. Deacon Jones was a faithful member of multiple gospel ministries throughout his 75 years, beginning with Cathedral Blessings Tabernacle in New Orleans, and ending with Good Ground Gospel OutReach Inc., where he was ordained a Deacon in Colorado Springs. Deacon Jones was blessed to share his gospel expertise with other ministries, such as Gideon Christian Fellowship, Solid Rock Christian Center, Healing Waters, The Gathering Place, and Crossroads Christian Center. In his walk with Christ, he received the gift of the Holy Ghost, and was baptized in Jesus' name. He dedicated his time and service as a faithful member in many auxiliaries within the churches he attended; as a deacon, as a committed Sunday school teacher, a member of the men's gospel choir, member of the out-reach witnessing program, as well as a member of the pro-life ministry with Gideon fighting against abortion. He was a prayer warrior, holding down noon-day prayer, and an ever-ready Evangelist. Like Mama Jones, he loved to witness to anybody!! Especially the young people!! For instance, he would stress the importance of living a holy lifestyle in Jesus, with emphasis on making it to heaven. Alongside his gospel ministry, he enjoyed his sports on television, playing chess and checkers, and going out to eat with his family and friends. He was a recurring customer at Betty Ann's restaurant for over forty-five years!! (in other words, he loved his wife's cooking at home).Although his health became a major challenge, he continued to praise God while sharing many testimonies about what God had done in his life. Deacon Jones would always mention from the word "how our God was, and still is the plumbline." (And if you don't know you better ask somebody… lol) He knew that God was using himm even in his condition, to be an example of unwavering faith. Even through his pain, he chose to strengthen and encourage the relationships of others within the body of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Deacon Jones, whom we memorialize at this time, possessed a strong character and lived a warrior's life for Jesus Christ. With lasting gratitude, his tireless and unselfish labor of love among us, the good he did, the lessons he taught, and the inspiration we will always cherish and adore in our minds and hearts, we dedicate this soldier this hour. Deacon Jones may have been in a weakened physical state towards the end of his journey, but his spirit remained strong. "...I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto them also that love his appearing. 2 Tim 4: 7-8He leaves to cherish fond memories and to celebrate his life, his devoted wife, Mother Betty Ann Jones; six children, Richard, Jr., Cary, Minyarn, Misty, Pastor Marlow, and Mark; one sibling, Willie North; eighteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved relatives and friends.Respectfully submitted,The FamilyAcknowledgment:The family of the late Deacon Richard Joseph Jones acknowledges with gratefulness, every act of kindness shown during the extended illness of our loved one. You shared generously your messages of comfort, visits and other services. During our bereavement, your expressions of loving concerns have been tremendously comforting. Thank you and may God bless you. "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister." Hebrews 6:10. KJVVisitation, 10:00AM-11:00AM, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00AM, Saturday, February 18, 2017 at The Springs Funeral Services - North, 6575 Oakwood Bouleverd, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80923.Repast, 12:00PM-1:30PM, immediately following Memorial Service, at The Springs Funeral Services-North, 6575 Oakwood Boulevard.Funeral Home:The Springs Funeral Services~North6575 Oakwood Blvd.Colorado Springs, COUSA 80923 Events Visitation Saturday, February 18, 2017 10:00AM - 11:00AM The Springs Funeral Services - North 6575 Oakwood Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80923 Phone: 719-207-8611 Service Saturday, February 18, 2017 11:00AM The Springs Funeral Services - North 6575 Oakwood Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80923 Phone: 719-207-8611