Robert Wayne Jones

Robert Wayne Jones, age 94, a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, passed away peacefully surrounded by his beloved family. Born on August 21, 1930, in Wynne, Arkansas, to Gilson and Garmelia Jones, Robert lived a life marked by duty, devotion, and deep love for his family and country.

Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned over 23 years. His service took him across the globe—from the snowy landscapes of Labrador, Canada to the heart of Europe in Frankfurt, Germany, and various posts throughout the United States including Harrison, Missouri and Omaha, Nebraska. His commitment to his nation and his steadfast work ethic were hallmarks of his time in uniform.

While stationed in Germany, Robert met the love of his life, Brigitte. He recounted the early days of their courtship—picking her up in his red convertible, a broad smile always lighting up his face at the memory. Together, they built a beautiful life, traveling extensively across Europe and cherishing the adventures that came with military life.

After retiring from the Air Force, Robert continued his service to the public through a career with the United States Postal Service, before retiring permanently to spend his later years surrounded by those he loved most.

Robert was a devoted husband, a loving father, a playful grandfather, and a cherished great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 69 1/2 years, Brigitte; their children Donna Rae Hammock, Robert “Wayne” Jones, Jr. (Katherine “Kathy”), and John Charles Jones (Lisa); his grandchildren Gary Howard Hammock, Jr., Courtney Owen (Stephen), Jennifer O’Dell (Dylan), Lauren Rea (Drew), and Jordan Jones; and his great-grandsons Ellis, Ethan, and Waylen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilson and Garmelia Jones; his brother Leroy Jones and sisters Louise Childers, Mildred Dodge, and Joann Webster; and is survived by brother Troy Jones (Emma) and sister Helen Buchy.

Robert lived life with humor, joy, and a contagious laugh. He delighted in teasing his grandchildren, sneaking desserts, and working outdoors—especially on his cherished 1948 blue Ford tractor. He treasured time with his family, whether it was doing projects with his sons (eventually getting it right on the second or third try), watching sports (cheering loudly for the Razorbacks), or pulling kids on tubes behind a boat at the lake. While stationed in Canada, he discovered a love for snowmobiling, and in retirement, he and Brigitte enjoyed dancing into the New Year and grabbing breakfast at Waffle House before sunrise with friends and family.

Robert Wayne Jones will be remembered for his unwavering love, his service, and his legacy of laughter, strength, and family. His life was a testament to commitment—to country, to family, and to the simple joys that make life meaningful.

In lieu of flowers, since Robert loved his country, please make donations in his memory to www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

A visitation for Robert will be held Friday, June 13, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, AR 72117. A funeral service will occur Friday, June 13, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, AR 72117. A committal / military honors will occur Friday, June 13, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Rest Hills Memorial Park, 7724 Landers Road, North Little Rock, AR 72117.