John E. Jones, 89, of Groveton, entered into the loving presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, while surrounded by his family. Born on Oct. 26, 1936, he devoted himself to being a supportive husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful servant of God, and his life was a beautiful testimony of love, faith, and service.
Always ready with a joke, puzzle, or funny story, John’s heart was fullest when surrounded by those he cherished, whether through shared laughter, music, or simply being together. He was a steady source of wisdom, exuberance, and unconditional love, leaving a legacy that will continue through generations.
A man of deep and abiding faith, John lived each day grounded in his relationship with Jesus Christ. His church was not just a place he attended, but a community he served wholeheartedly. Through music, he joyfully offered his talents to glorify God, blessing countless lives through worship and song. His praise was sincere, his spirit humble, and his faith evident to all who knew him.
John loved his country and formally served in United States military. He also proudly retired from the United States Postal Service in Lufkin, retiring after a dedicated career marked by hard work, integrity, and reliability.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Letisha Jones, of Groveton; and his beloved wife, Janell, of Lufkin.
John is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Ann Jones; his children who brought him immense pride and joy, Cecil Jones and wife, Gayle, Keith Jones and wife, Lisa, Lesa Cockrell and husband, Shannon, John Martin Jones and wife, Anne, and Tim Simer; his treasured grandchildren, Brianna DiLorenzo and husband, Michael, Justin Morehead and wife, Megan, Jade Thompson and husband, Jimmy, Hunter Cockrell and wife, Robin, Tyler Cockrell and wife, Ashley, Jennifer Anderson and husband, Jamarlon, Brooke Absa and husband, Anas, Preston Simer, and Paige Simer; along with 19 great-grandchildren that brought him endless delight. His legacy of laughter, kindness, and love will continue through his family and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
A celebration of John’s life was held at Oaklawn Baptist Church on Jan. 11, 2026, at 2 p.m.
While we will miss him deeply, we celebrate a life well lived and rejoice in the promise of eternal life. We take comfort knowing he is now at peace, worshiping his Savior, and hearing the words he lived for: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
