Luther Jones

Luther Jones journey of life began on Saturday, August 5, 1922, in the Millcreek Community of Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He was the son of William Gilbert and Clara Hughes Jones. His parents taught him to adhere to high morals, spiritual, and educational values. He attended school at the Piney Grove Church School for a short time and loved learning. He had to miss many days of school to work and to be supportive of his family. Luther was a life-long member of Piney Grove African Methodist Episcopal Church; and with a personal intent to solidify his knowledge he studied the AME way and knew it. Having been raised in a Christian household the church was always extremely important to him. He studied his bible faithfully, always had a song on his heart, continued to attend Sunday school and worship services regularly until his health started to decline. He served his church well by serving in several capacities as a steward, trustee, adult Sunday school teacher, choir President, and president of 2nd Sunday Singing Union. He was a strong supporter of the Hot Springs/Arkadelphia AME District having served as district steward, district trustee, as well as, a delegate of the West Arkansas Conference. He was a stalwart leader and was often sought for wise advice and his opinion. Luther attended everything; if there was a meeting he was there. Having owned several heads of cattle he saw the importance of being a member of the Cattleman’s Association. He served several years as a board member of the Agricultural Extension. On December 4, 1942, he was drafted into the United States Army. He attended Basic Training and was promoted to PFC, and performed as a Supply Clerk prior to attending Cooks and Bakers School. After which he was promoted to T/5 and preformed as a cook and was knowledgeable in all aspects of kitchen and mess hall operations. He specialized with the marksman carbine; a semi-automatic, medium-power rifle with a 20-round magazine. He was a World War II veteran. World War II, also known as the Second World War, was a global war that lasted from 1939 to 1945, although related conflicts began earlier. World War II was the deadliest conflict in human history.He served in Apennines and Po Valley campaigns, on the very edge of the Po Valley, in the heart of northern Italy. He was awarded two bronze stars and revered as a true hero. On January 7, 1946, he was Honorable Discharge from the 92nd Division, 599th F. A. Battalion. His pilgrimage was humble, modest and fulfilling. Being from the south, he was a true farmer. He enjoyed gardening, and would spend countless hours riding his lawn mower. He made sure his grandchildren knew exactly where his “land” started and ended. “Pawpaw” as he was lovingly often called; was all for family and found no greater love than that of his family. His home was often the gathering place for dinners, much laughter and family get-togethers. His memory was impeccable for his age. He was a walking history book and could tell you any and everything past and present. Pawpaw admonished all to “pray up” and be strong; while being grateful for every chance to enrich life. His life was rewarding, full, and blessed. On Thursday, February 23, 2017, with his children Carolyn, Michael and David at his side, he slipped the bonds of this life for a life in eternity. His independent spirit, iron will, and strong character will never be duplicated, but leaves an impression on the lives of those he touched and enriched along this life’s journey. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Annie Cora House Jones who made her transition on January 28, 1994; his son, Donald Jones; his siblings, Daisy Ross, Mattie Murdock, Hattie Jones, Jessie Jones, Elizabeth Howard, Tommy Jones, and William G. “Sonny” Jones. A lifetime of love and memories will be forever felt by his children: Carolyn Jones Stevenson, Michael Jones, David L. (Judy) Jones, and daughter-in-law Linda Jones; his cherished grandchildren, Fredrick D. Stevenson, Crystal L. Jones-Parillon, Tiffany Stevenson, Kyle (LaQuita) Jones, Donald Marcus D. Jones, David Justin (Danielle) Jones, Jamal Jones and Diamond L. Jones; 10 great-grandchildren; two sisters Maggie Jean Culmore, of St. Louis, MO; and Lucille Carter, of Sparkman, AR; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives. Special friends; Rev. Billy Blackmon, Rev. Gregory E. Guinn, and Terrance (Rennetta) Carter whom he loved as a son; his beloved Piney Grove African Methodist Episcopal Church Family, and an innumerable amount of other friends.