Francis B. Jones

CHATHAM-Francis Burchell Jones of Chatham died peacefully on August 3, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Chatham, MA on January 3, 1930, the son of Norman and Aurelia Jones. Fran was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Jean Jones, and his brothers Norman, Robert and Arthur Jones. He leaves his daughters, Ann J. Jones of Vernon, CT and Kathleen A. J. Whittle and her husband Richard of Brewster and their three children, Patrick, Paula, and Paige. He is survived by his nephews Edwin Jones of Plymouth, Robert Jones Jr. and wife Betsy of Amherst, and nieces Linda Jones and husband Paris Finley of Charlemont, Lisa Jones of Upton and Laura Jones of Dennisport. He is also survived by many members of his wife’s Arnold family of Westborough, MA.

Fran graduated from Chatham High School, and was often heard to say that he received higher education from the University of Nantucket Sound. He was a lifelong resident of Chatham and a salt of the Earth eighth generation Cape Codder. He was a commercial fisherman and owner of Stage Harbor Freezer Company. He is best known for his love of weir fishing and celebrated his last season as a commercial shellfisherman at the age of 86. In 2005, he authored the book, A History of Weir Fishing in Chatham for the Chatham Historical Society. A lover of nature and community, he served as President of the Chatham Fishermen’s Cooperative, was active in the Chatham Conservation Foundation, and the Chatham Chapter of American Field Service. Fran was a Sea Scout, an All Star pitcher for the Chatham A’s Town Team and an avid Red Sox fan.

Fran will be remembered as a man who lived with a strong New England spirit. He was a gentle giant who was part of a generation that valued the village lifestyle of caring for neighbors and keeping an eye on the shore. He will especially be remembered for his love of family, particularly his grandchildren, and dedication to the care of his wife Jean.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours at Nickerson Funeral Home, 87 Crowell Road, Chatham, MA on Thursday August 16, 2018 from 4:00-7:00pm, a celebration of Fran’s life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Meeting House, 819 Main Street, Chatham, MA on Friday, August 17, 2018 at 11:00 am followed by interment at Seaside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fran’s name to the Chatham Historical Society, Cape Cod Commercial Fisherman’s Alliance or Women of Fishing Families.

For online condolences, please visit www.nickersonfunerals.com, Nickerson Funeral Homes.