Robert (Bob) W. Jones, 84, passed away peacefully at home in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania on September 26, 2023 after a long, courageous battle with vascular dementia.
Beloved husband of Shirley Jones for over 63 years, Bob is also survived by three loving children, Robert (Diane), Kimberly (Ian) and Chris, eight loving grandchildren, and two great grandsons.
Born in Mt. Holly, New Jersey in 1939 Bob was the last surviving of seven children born to Joseph and Sara Jones. He spent most of his life in Camden County New Jersey, just outside of Philadelphia. He retired to Charlotte County, Virginia where he lived for more than 30 years.
Although he grew up in humble circumstances Bob modelled hard work and personal responsibility, providing for his family by taking on any job he could. He was also known for his generosity to others and passed this trait on to his children and grandchildren.
After graduating high school in Camden, NJ, Bob served proudly in the U.S. Air Force, stateside and in Okinawa. He received “Airman of the Month” honors as well as numerous letters of commendation. He completed his military service at Andrews Air Force Base and was honorably discharged in 1961.
Bob began his career with the Post Office in the 1960s as a letter carrier and worked his way up to various executive positions. He ultimately retired as postmaster of Voorhees, New Jersey. He also worked a second job for many years at the former Johnnie’s Liquor Store in Bellmawr, New Jersey.
After retirement Bob and Shirley relocated to rural southern VA where they enjoyed farm life for over 30 years. They cared for several horses, donkeys, guinea hens, goats, and any dogs or cats which would show up on the property. Dad also took on a job as driver’s education instructor at a local high school where he impacted the lives of many students. He was also given the responsibility of managing the school’s budget.
Bob was extremely intelligent and helped a number of people with their finances and investments. He was also a gifted poet who had over 50 poems registered with the US Copyright Office. Moreover, he was also a finalist in a National Poetry Contest for unpublished writers.
Bob leaves a legacy of having touched many lives in the places he has worked and lived. His polite manner and generosity were infectious. He will be missed by many.
Services will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, October 9, 2023 at Bellmawr Baptist Church, 328 Creek Road, Bellmawr, NJ 08031.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any contributions be made in memory of Bob to one of the following organizations: The Dementia Society of America; by mail to PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901, or online www.DementiaSociety.org/donate."; Tailwaggers Thrift Store, c/o SPCA, PO Box 66, Meherrin, Va 23954.; or SpiriTrust Lutheran Home Care and Hospice, 2700 Luther Drive, Chambersburg, PA 17202.