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Remembering those who have left us. This obituaries page is a simple tribute to individuals who touched our lives. May their legacies endure in our memories.
Joe N. Jones
05/02/1943 - 01/05/2025
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Obituary For Joe N. Jones
Joe Nathan Jones, 81, of Rapid City, South Dakota, passed away on January 5, 2025, at Wakonda Heritage Manor in Wakonda, South Dakota, after a courageous battle with dementia.
Joe was born on May 2, 1943, in Clayton, North Carolina, to James and Noraell Jones. He grew up in Clayton, where he attended William Mason Cooper High School graduating in 1961. In 1963, Joe began a remarkable 22-year career in the United States Air Force, proudly serving in the Security Police career field. His military journey took him across the globe to Lackland AFB, TX; Myrtle Beach AFB, SC; King Salmon Airport, Alaska; Travis AFB, CA; Ellsworth AFB, SD; and Clark Air Base, Philippines.
Throughout his service, Joe received numerous honors, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with five devices, National Defense Service Medal, and Air Force Longevity Service Award with four devices. He retired as a highly respected veteran on December 31, 1985, from Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD.
On April 29, 1978, Joe married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Jones, at Ellsworth AFB. Together, they created a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Barbara preceded him in death in February 2023, following nearly 45 years of marriage.
Joe was a man who could light up any room. He was known for his incredible sense of humor, constantly joking, singing funny songs, and being delightfully silly to bring smiles to those around him. Whether making up a goofy tune or delivering a well-timed punchline, Joe’s joy was infectious, and his laughter was a gift to all who knew him.
In addition to his humor, Joe had a love for travel, always eager to explore new places with his family. He also enjoyed working around the house, taking long walks, camping, playing pool, and trying his luck at poker in Deadwood.
After retiring from the Air Force, Joe continued to serve his community as a security officer at Coleman Gold and later as a school bus driver for the Rapid City Area School District.
Joe’s legacy of love and laughter lives on through his family: sons Paul Hendry and Michael Jones (Aquarius); daughters Ginger Boyd (John) and Debra Lee; seven grandchildren, Mya Hendry, DeAndre Hendry, Tyree Hendry, Josiah Jones, Tristan Jones, Alijah Krein (Jake), and Amariah Miller (Jake); one great-grandson, Dakota Krein; and his siblings, Janice Davis and Johnny Jones.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Ann Jones; his parents, James Sr. and Noraell Jones; and his siblings, James Jr., John, Jerry, and Alice Stringer.
Joe Nathan Jones will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose humor, kindness, and adventurous spirit brought joy to all who crossed his path. His lighthearted songs, quick wit, and love for life will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Behrens-Wilson Funeral Home, officiated by Michael and Aquarius Jones. Joe will be laid to rest with full military honors at the Black Hills National Cemetery, with a second service to celebrate his life planned for the summer.
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Condolences
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02/04/2025
The Jones Family, I regret the passing of Joe, my first cousin, but I will always cherish our childhood and adult memories. When he and Barb attended the Family Reunion that was held in Clayton or in Raleigh, NC, they would stop by my home to help assemble our family booklet. I always enjoyed their company. Patricia W. Nwosu
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01/28/2025
I dealt poker to Joe for nearly 3 decades. He always brought laughter and smiles to strangers and friends. He was a fantastic person and will be missed. Thanks for the laughs and memories Joe! We'll see you on the other side.
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01/19/2025
I know we're not supposed to have "family favorites." But the reality is, Uncle Joe was everyone's favorite. He made us all smile & laugh, even during trying times. He made sure we all spent time together when we were growing up, by driving to see us in Texas and inviting us to visit South Dakota. He and Aunt Barb always sent cards and newsletters for holidays & special occasions and we sometimes connected by phone too. I already miss those special moments. I'll never forget them or your amazing parents!
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01/17/2025
THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE
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01/16/2025
I worked at Coleman Black Hills Gold when Joe was our security guard. I remember him well. Always a jokester and telling stories. He worked weekend shifts and if I had to work on the weekend and was in the building alone he would call up to my office to make sure I was doing okay. Keep your memories of him close to your heart. Kim Feterl
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01/15/2025
While it wasnt a particulary great start, the first time I met Joe was while he did service with the rapid city police department. One night he had me dead to rights and still let me go. Years later, I had turned my life and actions around, found we were working together driving school bus. On the rare occation I subbed on his bus route, it was like taking a vacation, His students knew what was needed to get a safe ride due to Joe' diligence. He was a great role model for me and others. He was also great with bringing BBQ to the company potlucks. Thanks for being a great mentor Joe. Blessings and condolences to his family. Miss you. John Johnson
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01/15/2025
We are so sorry for your loss. Joe was always a bright light to his family and friends. He always had a story to tell. God bless you and comfort you. Dewayne and Monica Schmidt
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