Lawrence Jones

Lawrence Jones, also known as “Larry,” “Daddy,” “Papa Jones” and “Uncle Lawrence,” was born, July 21, 1936 in Tribbey, Kentucky to Dewey and Susie Jones.

Lawrence received a formal education through Woodward High School.  After graduation, Lawrence found a passion for graphic arts and began working at Melbro Color Service in 1968.  Lawrence worked as graphic arts designer at Melbro for 18 years.  After leaving, Melbro, Lawrence began his career at Deluxe Engraving in 1986.  Lawrence really found a niche for photography and videography and was always known to have a camera ready at any event.  Even after Lawrence’s retirement from Deluxe Engraving in 1996, he continued to capture special moments with his cherished video camera, for numerous family functions.

On July 21, 1973, Lawrence married the love of his life, Jacqueline, and to their union, Lawrence gained a beloved stepson, Karl and their beloved daughter, Shawna, was born. Shawna was Lawrence’s pride and joy.  Lawrence doted over his daughter and ensured that she had the very best.  He and Jackie loved Shawna immensely and provided a very enjoyable lifestyle for her.  Shawna’s love for her parents was reciprocal.  Even after she moved away to Maryland to begin her family, she and her dad talked on the phone, every day, sharing a special morning prayer and a few of her Daddy’s favorite “one-liner” jokes.

Settling in Forest Park, OH in 1976, Lawrence enjoyed maintaining his beautiful yard and would often be seen riding his favorite riding mower, purposefully keeping his yard immaculate.  He also loved sports and enjoyed watching his favorite teams play.  He would often call his nephews, to reflect on a team’s winning or losing streak and always begin with the phrase, “So tell me, what do you think about those…” Lawrence was an avid bowler.  His love for the sport lasted until his passing and his winning streak is the talk of the town.  

Lawrence loved his pet dog, Max.  Max was cared for in a special way and was the topic of many of Lawrence’s conversations.  Max was a dependable companion until his passing.

Lawrence was a pillar in his family.  He was the dependable uncle that stepped in as a father, to his nieces and nephews.  Lawrence’s love for his family was demonstrated in part, by the many Christmases that he purchased toys for his then young nieces and nephews, of whom would otherwise have none. There were countless times that he also gave his money, time and resources to help his family members in need.  Lawrence loved spending time with family and would share holidays enjoying delicious meals at several of their households.

Lawrence devoted his life to the Lord at an early age, introducing his mother, sister Evelyn, and her children to Bethlehem Temple Apostolic Church, in the late 1960's.  He later became a loyal and active member of the World Wide Church of God, for over 40 years.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jacqueline Jones; parents, Dewey and Susie Jones;  brothers, Bobby and Frank Jones; and sister, Evelyn Sullivan.

Lawrence leaves to cherish his loving memory: his beloved daughter, Shawna Jones Thornton (Alvin), stepson, Karl Coleman (Lathina), grandchildren, Alvin Thornton III, Aaliyah Thornton, Derrick Coleman and Karl Coleman, Jr; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and special friends.

Lawrence was a great man, with an infectious personality, who would light up any room with his warm personality and hilarious jokes.  He will be GREATLY missed.

Acknowledgments

The family of Lawrence Jones would like to extend sincere appreciation for the love, prayers, words of comfort, cards, telephone calls and all other acts of kindness shown towards them during the passing of their beloved.  The family wishes to extend a very special thank you to, Bishop James Chapman, (nephew), Jimmy and Gwendolyn Denson (niece), who lovingly opened her home and turned Saturday morning breakfasts into a fifteen year beautiful tradition that they both always looked forward to, LaRonda Thomas, (niece) and RoShauna Lindsey, (great-niece) for their unyielding love and care of their beloved uncle, during his transition.  We would also like to thank the Greater Bethlehem Temple Apostolic Church Family for their support.  

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