Douglas Allison “Al” Jones, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and a renowned residential architect, passed away on March 4, 2025, at the age of 81. Admired and loved by all who knew him, Al’s legacy is woven into the homes he designed and the lives he touched.
Born in Laurel, Mississippi, on December 29, 1943, to Preston and Gladys Jones, Al’s early years were spent on the family farm, where he developed a deep appreciation for hard work and a special bond with his childhood horse, Bud. Those early days shaped the man he became—thoughtful, patient, and steadfast in his values.
His pursuit of architecture led him from Mississippi State University to Louisiana State University, where he studied at the LSU School of Architecture. A proud member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, he forged lifelong friendships and cultivated a passion for design that would define his career. In 1966, Al began working under the legendary A. Hays Town, whose influence helped shape his classical yet deeply personal approach to architecture. In 1973, he founded Al Jones Architect, embarking on a career that spanned nearly 60 years, designing hundreds of homes that became sanctuaries for families.
On August 3, 1968, Al married the love of his life, Mary Gayden Flowers, in Laurel, Mississippi. Together, they built a life in Baton Rouge, where they raised four children and were blessed with twelve grandchildren—all of whom remained nearby, a testament to the strong foundation of family he cultivated. His sons, John and Ben, and son-in-law, Tim, followed in his footsteps, joining him in the practice of architecture in 1993, ensuring that his vision and passion live on through their work.
Beyond his professional achievements, Al was a man of unwavering faith. His personal relationship with his Savior, Jesus Christ guided every aspect of his life. He loved teaching God’s Word and served faithfully as a Deacon at First Baptist Church, later as an Elder at Crosspoint Baptist Church and finally as a member of Community Bible Church. He was also instrumental in the early years of The Dunham School, where he served many years as a member of the board, helping shape the institution that meant so much to his family and community.
Al found joy in the simplest of pleasures—drawing and painting, gathering with family, and spending time on the water with his beloved Mary Gayden. He was a storyteller at heart, and in recent years, he made it a priority to remind his loved ones of a truth he held dear: all of God’s blessings are given so that we may pass them on to others.
Al was preceded in death by his parents, Preston and Gladys Jones; his sister, Donna Burges; and his niece, Cynthia Burges.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Mary Gayden Jones; his children, John Jones (Ryn), Ben Jones (Rebecca), Allyson Hingle (Ty), and Gayden Landry (Tim); and his grandchildren, Anna Kathryn, Benton, Preston, and Carter Jones; Madelyn, Graham, Caroline, and Julianne Jones; Baron and Hayden Hingle; and Evie and Emma Landry. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Pete Burges; and his niece and nephew, Viki Swynenberg (Bret) and Bart Burges.
Serving as pallbearers will be Baron and Hayden Hingle, Preston, Carter, and Graham Jones, and Landon O’Connor.
Al’s presence will be deeply missed, but his impact—through faith, family, and the homes he designed—will endure for generations. His was a life well-lived, guided by purpose, love, and grace.
A visitation will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd, on Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 4 pm until 7 pm and will continue on Friday, March 14th at First Presbyterian Church, 763 North Blvd, from 9:30 am until his Celebration of Life beginning at 11 am. Al will be laid to rest in Greenoaks Memorial Park. Please visit www.greenoaksfunerals.com to leave condolences to the family.
