Jones Remembered for Love of Family, Football, and Horses

Ronnie Jones, a friend to so many in the community and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother, passed away at his Mentone home on December 4 at age 70. He leaves a legacy of family known and loved by many and a life blessed with passion for his work, his farm, and his hobbies. If he loved it, he excelled in it.

He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Daniel Jones. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Gail Sprayberry Jones, and their daughters, Kristen Lee Jones, Candace Lynn Jones McKelvy (Chad), and Jessica Elaine Jones. Also, his mother, Dean Jones, sisters Amanda Shirey (Mike) and Tricia Martin (Jay), and grandchildren Clay and Parker McKelvy.

Ronnie Jones was a graduate of Auburn University, where he earned a B.S. in business administration. He went on to work in the sale of industrial and special gases for Selox Corporation in Chattanooga — an industry he would remain in for 42 years before retiring from Airgas last June.

Jones played offensive tackle for the ‘72-’76 Auburn Tigers football squad. His love of the gridiron didn’t stop there — he went on to officiate in the game, first with the Alabama High School Sports Athletic Association and eventually with the powerhouse Southeast Conference.

Not only did Jones love horses, but just as he had with the game of football, he served as a leader in that sport as well. For several years he was head trail boss for the Alabama Wagon Train, an annual trek from Boaz to Montgomery by horseback and wagon, which drew enthusiasts from across the nation. He also served several terms as president of the Alabama Quarter Horse Association, receiving the Pioneer Horseman Award in 2023.

Jones’ late father, Ed Jones, was president of Bankhead Cemetery until his death 20 years ago, and son Ronnie assumed that position when his father passed away, Gail Jones said.

Gail and Ronnie have supplied camp horses to Riverview Camp the past 17 years, as well as raising registered Polled Hereford cattle on their family farm.

Above all, Ronnie Jones loved spending time with his family. He will be missed by all who knew him.