John Jones

John Paul Jones, 71 of West Jefferson died Thursday night, September 30, 2010 at the Margate Health and Rehabilitation Center in Jefferson. Mr. Jones was born on September 11, 1939 in the Nathan's Creek Community to Rex Perry and Annie Dixon Jones.  He attended the Nathan's Creek School and graduated in l957. He was married to Melba Baldwin in 1972. Paul had many successful business ventures.  He operated the Jones' Chain-Link Fence Company, and served as a partner in the New River Tractor Company. From 1988 until his retirement in 2008, he was owner and operator of Jones Superior Muffler.  He was a former member of the West Jefferson Lions Club, the Ashe County Gideon Camp and the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce.  On February 22, 1976, he joined the Friendly Grove Baptist Church.  Paul loved every aspect of service to this church.  He was ordained in 1991 as a Deacon.  In addition to serving as chairman of the Church Youth Council, Paul served on a variety of Church committees.      He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Melba Baldwin Jones; one brother: Leonard Preston Jones of Richmond, Virginia; and one sister:  Helen Roland of Warrensville; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother:  Rex Perry Jones, JR. The family wishes to express appreciation to Jackie Blevins, special friend and caregiver.      Funeral Services will be conducted on Sunday afternoon, October 3, 2010 at 3:00 at the Friendly Grove Baptist Church by the pastor, Rev. Wayne Osborne and the Rev. Steve Goss. The burial will follow in the West Jefferson City Cemetery.  The family will receive friends on Saturday evening, October 2, 2010 from 6:00-9:00 at Badger Funeral Home. Flowers will be appreciated or memorials may be made to, Friendly Grove Baptist Church, c/o Charles King, 707 Buck Mountain Circle, West Jefferson, NC 28694, Beaver Creek Scholarship Fund, c/o North Carolina Community Foundation, PO Box 2851 Hickory, NC 28603 or to a charity of the donors choice You may send or view condolences to the family through our website www.badgerfuneralhome.com. Badger Funeral Home was entrusted with Mr. Jones' arrangements.