James David Jones
James David Jones, known affectionately as David by those closest to him, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 19, 2024. Born on December 2, 1941, in Sullivan, Missouri, to James “Jim” and Maxine Owens Jones, David's journey through life was marked by his loving nature, faith-filled heart, and intelligent mind.
David's formative years were spent in the town of his birth, where he attended local schools and graduated from Sullivan High School in the class of 1959. His academic pursuits continued at Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.
In 1962, David's life was enriched by his marriage to Janet Pearce, a union that brought forth two beloved children, Amy and James Mark. Family was the cornerstone of David's life, and his dedication to them was unwavering. Tragedy struck when David's father had an accident, calling him back home to manage the family business, Sullivan Lumber Co. He took the helm after his father's passing, guiding the business until a corporate career opportunity led him to the commercial roofing industry where he excelled in sales, first with W.R. Grace Co. and later with DuroLast. His colleagues respected him for his insightful approach and his ability to lead with patience and tenderheartedness. David eventually retired from the corporate industry and returned to his entrepreneurial roots founding Sullivan Realty Co., to develop and market local real estate.
Beyond his professional life, David harbored a deep love for horses. From his boyhood days of riding to his affiliation with the Missouri Foxtrotters, his passion for these graceful creatures was a source of joy and pride. Equally impactful was his love for music, a talent he nurtured from a young age becoming an accomplished pianist and organist and later expressed through his voice, singing in local quartets and choirs.
David's interests were diverse and reflected his zest for life. He served as President of the Sullivan Rotary Club as well as on various community and church boards. David was an avid golfer, finding solace and challenge on the greens, and he enjoyed boating on the Lake of the Ozarks, where the tranquility of the water provided a backdrop for contemplation and relaxation. Travel was another of David's pleasures, and together with Janet, he explored various destinations, creating a tapestry of memories that would last a lifetime.
Above all, David cherished the moments spent with his family. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words carried weight and wisdom. His patient demeanor and tender heart made him a pillar in the lives of his children and grandchildren as well as in the lives of those he touched. David's faith was a guiding force, and his generosity extended beyond his family to all who knew him. As a final act of love and kindness, David’s brain was donated to science for further neurological study.
David is survived by his loving wife, Janet; his children: Amy Pearce-Siebenman and husband, Ted of Ballwin, MO and James Mark Jones and wife, Alaina of Sullivan, MO; 7 grandchildren: Ted Siebenman and wife, Casey of Houston, TX, Brooke Cromer and husband, James of Oklahoma City, OK, Morgan Diamond and husband, Jacob of St. Peters, MO, Taylor Siebenman of Fairbanks, AK, Tanner Jones of Nashville, TN, Libby Jones of Overland Park, KS and Allison Jones of Sullivan, MO; 3 great grandchildren: Teddy & Ava Siebenman & Nash Cromer; niece and nephew: Jessica Mathis (her daughter, Annika) and Derek Rust of Lebanon, MO and Justin Mathis (his children: Monroe & Porter) of Niangua, MO; a special family friend, Cathy Cline Johnson and husband, Andy of Naples, FL; and numerous cousins and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James “Jim” Jones and Maxine Owens Jones; parents-in-law, H.O. and Cleta Pearce; sister-in-law, Susan Mathis; and brother-in-law, Jim Pearce.
Services will be 6:00 PM, Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO with Pastor Scott Perry officiating.
Visitation will be 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at the funeral home prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be given in David’s memory to BJC Hospice and/or Mid-Ozark CASA.
Friends may share condolences online with David’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.