Leslie Gerome "Short Dog" Jones

On April 5, 1965, in Arkadelphia a baby boy was born to James Henry and Rose Mary Blacknall Jones. The named him Leslie Gerome Jones. He was nurtured in a Christian environment and gave his life to Christ at a young age. He was a life-long member of Mt. Olive AME Church in Dalark, Arkansas. Leslie grew up to be a fun loving and respectful young man. His independent spirit, strong character and iron-will would serve him well in his life. Growing up in the south he naturally loved to fish. He was a 1984 graduate of Arkadelphia High School. He was known for his wit and quick sense of humor. Classmates, faculty and staff alike were drawn to his “funny personality”. He enjoyed the simple things life offered and learned how to “laugh it off”. He met and married Wanda Grey. Although their union produced no children; he loved Jason, Melanie and Ieasha as his own children. He was nicked-named “Short Dog” by his friends and family. Although short in height, he was the “toughest” guy around. His home was always open to friends and family for a laugh-filled great time. His hobbies included “fixing” bicycles and lawn mowers. He loved to dance and was truly the life of the party. Leslie passed into the Lord’s embrace on Wednesday, December 30, 2015, at his home with his wife and family at his side. He was preceded in death by: his mother, Rose Mary Jones (June 11, 1994); his father, James Henry Jones (January 19, 2011); two brothers, Wendell Jones and John Wayne Jones (February 2, 2013) and his niece, Nikita Reed (January 4, 2011). By every account, he lived the life he loved and loved the life he lived. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered. Those left to cherish his memory are: his wife, Wanda Grey Jones of Arkadelphia; his children, Jason Gray, Melanie Keith and Ieasha Grey all of Arkadelphia; his sisters, Gloria Perry (Bobbie) of Clarksville, TN, Gwen Reed (William) of Arkadelphia, AR and Michelle Jones of Arkadelphia, AR; and one great uncle, Eddie Quarles (Shevie) of Arkadelphia, AR. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, his best friend Michael Watson and several other friends. Funeral services will be held at Mt. Olive A. M. E. Church on Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Presiding Elder Randolph Martin will officiate and Rev. Linda Butler will deliver the eulogy. Interment will be in Pine Grove Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 from 12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.