Ronald Keith "RJ" Jones

      Ronald Keith "RJ" Jones, age 70, of St. Louis, MI, passed away Thursday, January 18, 2024, at Schnepp Senior Care and Rehab Center in St. Louis, MI. 

      Funeral Services will be held at St. Louis Church of Christ, St. Louis, MI, at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, with Pastor Jut Daron and Dr. Keith Wise officiating.  Burial will take place at Emerson Township Cemetery, Emerson Township, MI. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 22, 2024, from 2-8 P.M. with the family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Homes (117 North East Street, St. Louis, MI 48880). Visitation will also be held on Tuesday at the church from 9:00 A.M. until the time of the funeral service.  

     Ronald was born in Alma, Michigan on May 13, 1953, the son of Charles Edward and Lorine (Cramer) Jones. He graduated from St. Louis High School with the class of 1972, and went on to obtain his associate’s degree in journalism from Delta College. Ron married Patricia Langan on May 24, 1980, at the Church of the Nazarene in St. Louis, MI.

     Ron retired from Gratiot Medical Center in 2010, after more than 30 years of service. He loved oldies music and had an extensive record and music memorabilia collection.  He was an avid reader, and especially books about music, musicians, and history. Ron enjoyed movies, such as James Bond & Indiana Jones, garage sales, and thrifting. He was an avid U of M Wolverine fan and attended many games.  For many years, Ron was a professional Santa for the local community and family events.  He was a member of the St. Louis Church of Christ, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Gratiot County Players, where he performed in many local productions.  

     He is survived by his wife Patricia Jones of St. Louis, MI; son Brandon Jones of St. Louis, MI; daughter Amanda and son-in-law Patrick Joseph of the Dominican Republic; grandson Isaiah Joseph; dog Denver; siblings: Marlene Halliwill, Beverly and Dallas McClain, Gloria and Gerry Soules and sister-in-law Patty Leino-Jones.  He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, older brother Ed, older sister Helen, and brother-in-law Bill Halliwill. 

      Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family to cover final expenses. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.