Mr. Joe Wayne Jones

Joe Wayne Jones, lovingly known as “Joe” and affectionately nicknamed “Chief,” passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, in Sun City Center, Florida. He was 88 years old. Joe was born on September 27, 1936, in Overton, Texas. He is survived by his son, Jerome Keith Jones, and daughter-in-law, Cyndie Ciper Jones; and by his grandsons, Pepper Anthony Jones (wife, Lindy Patterson Jones) and Jesse Lee Jones; four stepsons and 17 additional grandchildren. He is also survived by his first wife, Jacqueline Gayle Christiansen, the mother of his son. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Jefferson Jones and Dora Mae Jones (née Stockton), his brother, James Jones; and by his second wife of 44 years, Jacquelyn Faye Hornaday the mother of his 4 stepsons. In his early years, Joe worked as an aircraft mechanic before answering the call to serve his country. He dedicated 21 years to active duty in the United States Army, followed by 24 years of federal service. Joe served with distinction in the 101St Airborne (Air Assault) Division, 82nd Airborne Division, and the renowned 1st Infantry Division (Big Red One). A highly skilled and courageous aviator, he completed three combat tours in the Vietnam War as an attack and transport helicopter pilot, as well as a fixed-wing pilot. Over the course of his military career, Joe was awarded 23 Air Medals, four Bronze Star Medals, among many other honors, and retired with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4). After retiring from the Army, Joe worked for over 30 years as an aviation insurance adjuster and as an aviation safety consultant. In retirement, Joe found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid reader, especially fond of Louis L’Amour Western novels, and he took quiet pride in a small collection of wooden helicopters—a tribute to his years in flight. More than anything, Joe cherished time spent with his family and extended family, finding comfort and purpose in their presence. Known for his friendly nature and his love of storytelling, Joe was always eager to share memories from his Army days and his experiences in Vietnam. His stories, often laced with humor, wisdom, and deep pride, reflected the incredible life he lived and the sacrifices he made. Joe was a Christian and was a member of Lone Oak Baptist Church in Plant City, Fl. There will be a local memorial service at Lone Oak Baptist Church, 3505 Lone Oak Road, Plant City, FL on July 3, 2025, at 11:00 am. Joe will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitting tribute to his life of service and sacrifice. He will be remembered with deep love, lasting respect, and heartfelt gratitude by all who knew him.

Mr. Joe Wayne Jones

September 27, 1936 - June 20, 2025