James William Jones, 71, of Krum passed away peacefully at his home on November 2, 2017. He was born in Powell, Tennessee to Bill and Verna (Rice) Jones on November 28, 1945.

James married Shirley Jett on May 26, 1967 in Powell, Tennessee. The two celebrated their 50 ^th Wedding Anniversary this summer, a true testament to their love and commitment for each other. His love for her will forever be admired by those who knew them.

James completed coursework at the Tennessee Institute of Electronics before graduating from Southern Methodist University with a B.A. in Business. He had a successful career with AT&T, formerly Southwestern Bell, for 17 years. He then started his own landscaping and lawn care business prior to retirement. James is known by many for his humor, laughter and his ability to spread joy. His greatest gift was making the people around him smile. He never met a stranger, and always made everyone feel like they were family. He truly exemplified the love of Christ. He was a genuine Patriarch and directly influenced four generations of family and many more friends. Words can't describe the man, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather he truly was. He was known for his steadfast character and tremendous work ethic. He set the standard for being a tough and strong man, while also being gentle enough to work with and minister to children and youth. He was actively involved in ministry throughout his life, and he continues impacting countless lives today through the lessons he taught us all. He was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. He loved both his garden and his dog "Buddy". His legacy will live on through the numerous lives he has influenced through his various acts of love and kindness.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Jones of Krum, daughter, Michelle Newman and husband Mark of Lubbock, Texas, sons; Troy Jones and wife Shannon of Sanger, David Jones and wife Christina of Cross Roads, four sisters; Dorothy, Faye, Mary and Gloria, brothers; Dale, Earl, Ralph and Robert all of Tennessee. He is also survived by eight grandchildren Jacob, Jessica, Jaymie, Cole, Peyton, Noah, Avery, Landon, and two great grandchildren Jayce and Abigail. He was preceded in death by both of his parents, and one grandson Daniel.

The family will receive friends on Monday, November 6, 2017 at DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton, Texas from 6:00-8:00 PM. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2017 at 10:00 AM at First Baptist Church in Denton. The family invites friends to join them in the Fellowship hall following the service for fellowship. Interment will follow at 2:00 PM at Roselawn Memorial Park in Denton.