Johnnie Birnell Jones, Jr.

Johnnie Birnell Jones, Jr., of Marquez, Texas, passed away on September 26, 2026, in Marquez at the age of 73. He was born on October 21, 1952, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama to Johnnie, Sr. & Elma Ruth (Lancaster) Jones.

John was a 1970 graduate of Caledonia High School. Right out of high school, he served his country in the United States Coast Guard, a chapter of his life that reflected his sense of duty and commitment. He later became an entrepreneur in the telecommunications industry, building a career through hard work and determination. For the past twenty-five years, he made his home in the Marquez area after moving from Aledo, Texas.

Among the deepest callings of John’s life was the compassion he shared with his late wife, Susan. Together, John and Susan rescued horses, mules, and dogs, particularly mustangs from Colorado, bringing them home to be rehabilitated and allowed to live out the rest of their days in peace. After Susan’s passing, John kept the promise he had made to her and continued rescuing animals until the day he died. That devotion spoke quietly but powerfully of his faithful heart, his kindness, and the love he carried for both Susan and the animals they saved.

He is survived by his family, who will hold his memory close: his sons, Johnnie Jones, III of Columbus, Mississippi, and Lenny Jones of Atlanta, Georgia; his siblings, Jeannie Smith of Columbus, Mississippi, Joe E. “Joey” Jones of Columbus, Mississippi, and Janice J. Temple of Maryville, Tennessee; his grandsons, Kaden Jones of Columbus, Mississippi, and Joshua Jones of Atlanta, Georgia; and his great-granddaughter, Anastasia Jones. Each of them carries forward a part of his life and legacy, and each was part of the family he loved.

John was preceded in death by his mother, Elma Ruth Lancaster Jones; his father, Johnnie Birnell Jones, Sr.; his wife, Susan Ann Hale-Jones; his son, Joshua Lincoln Jones, Sr.; and his brother, Jerry Howard Powell. Their memories remained a part of his life, and now they are reunited with him in peace.

Visitation for John will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 9 A.M. until 10 A.M. at Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas. A funeral service will follow at 10 A.M., also at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Old Bowling Cemetery.

John will be remembered for his service to his country, his work ethic, his enduring love for his family, and the remarkable compassion he showed to animals in need. His life was one of perseverance, loyalty, and quiet generosity, and his memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.