Michael Dan Jones passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026, at his home in Houston, Texas, with his beloved wife Molly by his side. He was 77 years old. His family is deeply saddened by his passing, but grateful for the many years of love, laughter, and memories he gave them.
Mike was born on August 8, 1948, in Yuma, Arizona to Doris Dockery and W. R. “Jack” Jones and was raised by his loving parents Pauline and Jack Jones. He attended Stephen F. Austin High School in Houston, Texas and proudly served his country in the United States Navy. While in the Navy, he worked as an electrician aboard the USS Ramsey. Afterward, he attended IBEW Electrical school and built a long career working for Fisk Electric, Britain Electric, and helped open Millennium Electric.
Mike is survived and missed by his loving wife, Molly Jones; his daughter Jacqueline Fitzgerald and husband Blake Fitzgerald; his stepdaughter Emily Spivak and husband Alex Spivak; his brother Rodney Jones; and his grandchildren Hannah and Ryan Fitzgerald, and Valentin and Ellie Spivak. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pauline Jones and W. R. “Jack” Jones.
Mike loved country life and the outdoors. Camping, hunting, fishing, birdwatching, gardening, and simply being outside brought him peace and joy. Though he was an avid hunter and fisherman, he had a deep respect for animals and nature and never hunted or fished simply for sport. He followed the traditions and rules of the outdoors with care and discipline.
Mike had many talents and interests. He loved a good game and a little friendly competition. No matter the game, he was always ready to play. Mike had a creative and curious spirit. Over the years he enjoyed oil painting, woodworking, carpentry, and tinkering in the garage. In high school he played the cornet and later learned to play the guitar. He could build nearly anything he set his mind to - from small birdhouses to larger structures - and he could operate just about any piece of equipment. He especially enjoyed time spent on his tractor. He had an adventurous side too. In his younger years he loved skydiving with his brother, and later he shared that thrill-seeking spirit with his daughter on rollercoasters.
Above all else, Mike loved his family. He was a great dad; he wanted his kids to have a basic understanding of many things and to know how to do things for themselves. He gave advice when it was asked for and support and compassion when it was needed.
His greatest joy later in life was being “Pawpaw” to his grandchildren. He never missed an opportunity to spend time with them. Whether he was teaching them something new, building something together, playing games, or simply cuddling them, those were the moments he treasured most.
Mike loved to laugh and could oftentimes be playful and full of life. He loved telling stories, sharing memories, and enjoying time with family and friends. He loved his wife, his children, and his grandchildren deeply, and that love was returned many times over.
He will be greatly missed, but the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the love he gave will live on in all who knew him.
Funeral services to honor the life of Michael Dan Jones will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 1 p.m. at Waltrip Funeral Home at 1415 Campbell Road, Houston, TX 77055. Refreshments to follow.
Visitation will precede the funeral service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at the funeral home.
Graveside services with military honors soon to follow at the Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Milam Touch of Love (for cats and dogs).
Mike will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends as a devoted husband, father, Pawpaw, brother, and friend.
