James Arthur Jones

On the night of December 22, 2024, at 9:20 PM, our family lost its cornerstone, James Arthur Jones II. At the age of 83, he departed this life surrounded by the love and legacy he built.

Born on July 1, 1941, in York, South Carolina, James was the son of the late James Henry Jones and Azelene Thomas Jones. He graduated from York High School, a proud accomplishment that led him to New York City, where he worked tirelessly as a cab driver before starting his own business. James was a hardworking man with strong faith, a devoted member of White Rock Baptist Church, and a man whose presence commanded respect.

He was the beloved husband of 54 years to Wanda Terry Jones, and the proud father of five children: Gary Allen Jones, James Arthur Jones III, Brandon Jones-White, Carleen Aretha Wigfall-Jones, and Keron Winfrey. He now rests in heaven alongside his son, Kenneth Wayne Gordon.

James was also a brother, leaving behind Melvin Jones (Beverly), William Jones (Shirely), Reverend Marion Jones (Rev. Catherine), Walter Jones (Annette), Randy Jones, Anne Marie Burris (James), Linda Boulware and Emily Boulware, and reuniting with his siblings Robert Jones, Henry Jones, Ronnie Jones, and Paul Boulware who preceded him in death.

To our family, James was so much more than his titles. He was our teacher and protector. He taught us to value hard work, take pride in our roots, and never back down. He had a love for Westerns, country music, and liked to take a good road trip, and he had a way of making the simplest moments unforgettable. His humor, especially when he was “resting” in his favorite spots—the bed-- and when his wife said “get up James" or "when are you getting ready” he'd always say “5 minutes”- this always made us laugh.

James’s legacy lives on through his 12 grandchildren: Jeronica Digby (Aaron), Jeanice Parker, Zena Warner, Isaiah Warner, Curtis Jones, Sakeema Jones, Queen Hassana Jones, Brielle White, Aniyah White, Chloe White, Montay Robinson, and Kareen Smith; and his 9 great-grandchildren: Darah Digby, Emma Digby, Clara Digby, Aaron Digby III, Ava Parker, Kenneth Warner, Montay Robinson Jr., Monzay Robinson, and Lataysha Robinson, God-brother, Dexter Doyne (Ann), Beverly and Renay Willette, and one special niece, Dr. Gloria Gean Jones. He also leaves behind a host of family and friends.

James’s love for his family was unwavering. He was laid back but firm, charming yet wise, stern but always full of love. He worked hard, traveled far, and gave his all to the people who mattered most.

A celebration of his life will be held in his hometown of York, South Carolina, 2:00 pm, Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church.  Burial will follow at Uniondale Cemetery in York as well.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 pm prior to the celebration of life.

As we gather to honor James’s life, we hold close the memories he left us, the lessons he taught us, and the love he gave us unconditionally. Rest peacefully. You are loved beyond measure and will be missed every single day.

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