It is with heavy hearts but a joyful spirit that we announce the passing of Jerry Paul Jones. Jerry peacefully departed this world on Monday afternoon, June 1, 2026, at the age of 91. In his final days, Jerry was surrounded by his beloved wife, Betty Lovada Spurgin Jones, all his children, many of his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jerry passed away just seven hours before his 69th wedding anniversary.

Jerry was born in Denison, TX on January 21, 1935, to Leonard and Elizabeth Jones. Raised on a farm, he learned the value of hard work from a young age. He attended Denison High School and later pursued his studies at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. In his early career, Jerry worked as a newspaper carrier and later joined the Denison Herald as a printer. Jerry met his love of nearly 70 years at a high school football game. It was at a Sherman v Denison battle for the axe game. They both had dates but became more interested in each other than their dates. Jerry knew right then this was the woman he wanted to marry.

Soon after that Jerry embarked on a new chapter in his life by joining Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a store manager in Hillsboro, Texas. Later, he returned home to manage the Denison Goodyear store for over 20 years.

In the early 80’s, an opportunity arose for Jerry to fulfill a lifelong dream of owning his own business. Leaving behind the comfort of the corporate world, he purchased an Exxon service station and successfully operated it for over 20 years.

Jerry, a determined and hardworking individual, was not only building the Exxon business but also cultivating a brand. His passion lay in The Walking J Angus Ranch, where he meticulously purchased and gradually paid for a 115-acre ranch. He transformed that property, eventually selling it. Subsequently, he acquired 550 acres in Savoy, Texas. Jerry’s love for cattle, improving herd genetics, developing land, and the sheer joy of hard work were evident in his endeavors. At one point, he had over 200 head of mother cows, some of the finest genetics in Texas, people coming from all over the country to buy his bulls, a testament to his grit and determination.

Jerry was baptized into Christ and dedicated over 50 years of his life to serving in the Churches of Christ wherever he resided. He was a member of the Mirick Ave. Church of Christ in Denison, the Center Street Church of Christ in Sherman, and finally, the Anna Street Church of Christ in Denton, where he had lived with his son for the past few years. His unwavering commitment and faith are reflected in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His son serves as an Elder at Anna Street, while his grandson holds the position of Deacon. On Sundays at Anna Street, the congregation is filled with 13 or more of Jerry’s family members, united in their worship of the Lord. Jerry’s legacy is a testament to his remarkable contributions and enduring impact on his community. He was also a lifetime member of the Denison Lions Club and the Texas Angus Association where he served a term as President of both organizations.

Jerry's wife, Betty, was diagnosed with dementia, and when the disease progressed and limited her mobility and safety, Jerry made the difficult decision to move her to a memory care community in Denton, close to family. He left the ranch he loved and relocated to Denton to live with his son, ensuring he could be by her side. Until just six months ago, Jerry visited Betty every single day. He often said that the only thing he loved more than the ranch was momma.

Jerry was diagnosed with leukemia in January and It began to take its toll on his strength and mobility. His health declined sharply over the past few months.

Jerry Paul Jones was preceded in death by his father, Leonard; his mother, Elizabeth; his brothers, Freeman; and his wife Lois, Melvin; and his wife, Lorraine. He is survived by his wife, Betty Jones; his son, Yancey Jones and his wife Sheila; his daughters, Amber Jones Flores and her husband, Victor; and Christi Jones LeMoine, and her husband, Ken. Jerry has grandchildren, Zachery Jones and wife Katherine; Allisen Jones Friend and her husband Ryan, Callie Jones, Justin LeMoine and his wife Taylor; Kenny Ray LeMoine and his wife Jesi, Jacob Flores, Clayton Flores, Blake Flores, and great-grandchildren Tyler, Dylan, Ellie, Vincent, Kinlee, Zoey, Henry, Emmalynn, and Weston.

The family is hosting a visitation on Friday evening, June 5, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Waldo Funeral Home in Sherman, Texas. Funeral services will be held at the Center Street Church of Christ in Sherman, Texas, on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 10 a.m. Elder Matt Clark and evangelist Michael McCorkle will officiate. Jerry will be laid to rest at the Georgetown Cemetery in Pottsboro, TX with his family.