Willis was a passionate advocate for the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens and I was honored to serve with him on the Board of Directors and as a volunteer at several events.  I first met him when I was lining up sponsors for our plein air event, A Brush with Nature, hoping that his employer, Southern Wine & Spirits, would provide some of their products for the event's gala.  He was so gracious and generous, not only providing all that we needed, but letting me know how much he enjoyed the Arboretum and offering to get more involved.  He shared how he and his granddaughter, Ally, came out to the Arboretum often and that there was a special oak tree that they loved.  

True to his word, Willis got involved with the organization and created the successful fundraiser, the ArborEATum Wine and Food Festival that has really become a must attend event.  He came out and hiked the trails almost daily when he was in town and always engaged the people he met in conversation and encouraged them to get more involved.  He was definitely a "people person"  and his presence will be sorely missed.

To Willis' family and many friends, I extend my deepest sympathy for your loss and I hope you can find some comfort in the many memories of the times you shared with him.  Yesterday's service was a heartfelt tribute to this wonderful man.  May he rest in peace.

Kind regards,

Gail Beveridge

Deb,  we are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, and wishing you peace over the next days and weeks, what a great guy Willis was, I remember when you met him and what a perfect match you two were.   With Love,  Darrel and Sandy Hall

Willis will be terribly missed by the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens Board of Directors.  He was patient, kind, and always giving to all of us.  He was always thinking of others, and anyone that knew him is better for having known him.  I will miss him very much.  To Willis' family, I am so sorry for your loss.

Michelle Hendryx

From: Angie Johnson & Family purchased the Beautiful Heart Bouquet for the family of Willis Odell Jones Jr..

Willis,  You have been a great friend to our family!  We will always cherish the memories of YOU. Prayers are with your friends and family during this time of loss.

Nova and Odette Pearson

Beautiful Heart Bouquet was purchased for the family of Willis Odell Jones Jr..

Thank you Willis for being an awesome neighbor and always willing to give sound advice and help. You will be greatly missed my friend. 
Brad H

Arrive in Style was purchased for the family of Willis Odell Jones Jr..

Sapphire Skies Bouquet was purchased for the family of Willis Odell Jones Jr..

Ocean Breeze Spray was purchased for the family of Willis Odell Jones Jr..

Jacksonville Arboretum Board and Volunteers purchased the A New Sunrise Spray for the family of Willis Odell Jones Jr..

I have worked with Willis for about 10 years via email and phone. I work at the West Palm Beach office of SWGS. He was always helpful and had a wonderful sense of humor.  My deepest condolences to his family and friends,
Sincerely, Pam Murphy

i remember when him and my mom dene would get together in port charlotte my mom told him that she got here diving certifacation he said you can't swim lol

Willis

 

Willis, an honest, kind-hearted man

Who gave respect and honor

To anyone who crossed his path,

Thinking of others

More than himself,

He listened well

To what others had to say,

Displaying friendship

With action,

He carried himself

With a meekness inviting,

Allowing one

To be himself around him,

He had a dynamic work ethic

Willing to do whatever was needed

All for integrity and ethics sake,

He was compassionate and caring

Welcoming you towards him,

I will miss his presence

His friendship

As he has left this earth

On to greater things

 

May 2017 mtmazza

 

I did not know Willis very long. But every time I engaged with him it was a pleasure.

OBITUARY

Willis Odell Jones

17 October, 1953 – 29 May, 2017

Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home

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