In Loving Memory of Ronald Layne Jones, Sr.

A Life of Laughter, Love, Family, and Service

Ronald Layne Jones, Sr., affectionately known as “Ron” and “Newka” to his close family and friends, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, in Palm Coast, Florida, at the age of 67. A proud United States Air Force veteran, devoted father and grandfather, beloved brother, and cherished friend, Ronald leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, service, and unforgettable memories.

Born on August 7, 1959, in Newark, New Jersey, to Sylvester Jones and Althea Lois Hubbard, Ronald grew up with a love for learning, entertainment, and the arts. He graduated with honors from Central High School in 1977 before continuing his education at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where he majored in English and minored in Theater Arts. During his studies, he had the distinct opportunity to learn under the renowned actor Avery Brooks, an experience that reflected his lifelong appreciation for creativity and performance.

In 1986, Ronald answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He proudly served as an Airfield Management Journeyman, attaining the rank of Sergeant serving during both the Gulf War and Desert Storm before receiving his honorable discharge in 1994. His military service was a tremendous source of pride throughout his life, and he carried the values of dedication, discipline, and service with him long after leaving the armed forces.

Following his military career, Ronald held various positions that reflected his versatility, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others. His professional journey included work in security, medical transportation, substitute teaching, and serving as a care aid for children with special needs through Youth Consultation Service (YCS).

To know Ronald was to know laughter. He possessed a contagious personality, a quick wit, and a remarkable ability to bring joy to those around him. Whether sharing his extensive knowledge of movies and classic R&B music, telling stories, or engaging in hours of hilarious conversations, Ron had a special gift for making ordinary moments extraordinary.

He was also uniquely creative, known for his incredible ability to transform simple aluminum foil into intricate figurine artwork. What began as a playful talent became one of the many ways he brought smiles to others, generously creating his one-of-a-kind pieces for family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to receive one.

Above all, Ronald treasured time spent with family. Some of his happiest moments were the simplest ones—watching movies together, playing cards for candy, reminiscing, laughing, and enjoying conversations that could last for hours. He loved to celebrate holidays like Halloween and Christmas. He had great memories of dressing up as Batman and Dracula with his kids for trick or treating and decorating the whole living room with Christmas decorations while being proud that he completed all of his gift shopping ahead of time each year. His humor, warmth, and larger-than-life personality made him someone whose presence could fill a room and whose memory will continue to bring smiles for generations.

Ronald leaves to cherish his memory his beloved children, Ronald Jones, Jr. (Larrisha) and Cherisse Jones; his treasured grandchildren who called him “Pop Pop”, Ronald “RJ” Jones III and Lara Jones; and his loving siblings, Sylvester “Sal” Jones, Belinda “Penny” Chalmers, Michelle Jones-Dabney, Michael Jones, and Paul Jones. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Althea Lois Jones; his identical twin brother, Donald Payne; and his brothers, Wayne and Dwayne Jones.

Rest peacefully, Ron. Your service is complete, your legacy lives on, and your memory will forever be a blessing.

Military Honors and Burial Service

Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery

Wrightstown, New Jersey

Time: 2:00 PM

Date: November 6, 2026

Ronald was cremated and his urn will be laid to rest with full military honors in recognition of his honorable service to the United States of America.