Ralph Michael Jones

Ralph was born on November 11, 1947 to Ralph E. Jones & Virginia Norris Jones in Houston, TX. After graduating from East Jefferson High School in New Orleans, LA, he went on to study Architecture at The University of Texas at Austin. In 1984 he met Jeannette, his wife of 20 years, and they went on to have Virginia Kate in 1991; Kate is and will always be the apple of Ralph’s eye.

Ralph was a force of nature, determined to provide for Kate and give her the life he felt she deserved. She meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he often mentioned. He was unendingly proud of Kate, and always did his best to support her.

Ralph was also a passionate sailor, fly-fisherman, woodworker, and all-around nature enthusiast. He was also a huge fan of all things Texas, especially his alma mater The University of Texas, where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity and also worked for over 20 years until his retirement in 2014. He loved all animals, the wilder the better. Anyone who knew Ralph knew of his sharp wit, quick mind, quirky sense of humor, adventurous spirit, and that he was a loyal friend.

Ralph was predeceased by his parents Ralph & Virginia Jones, and his sister Nancy Jo Rhode. He is survived by his daughter Virginia Kate Jones, his brother-in law Raymond Rhode of Casselberry, FL, his nephew Chris Rhode and niece Kari Rhode Antalek both of Orlando, FL, and his ex-wife Jeannette Jones of Austin, TX and many good friends, especially lifelong friends Steve Potts of Dallas, TX and Jim McDonald of Fairfax, VA.

The family requests that all flowers and notes are sent to Cook Walden Forest Oaks Cemetery 6300 W William Cannon Dr. Austin, TX 78749. Alternatively, in lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the ASPCA in Ralph’s name. There will be an inurnment and celebration of life at 11:00 AM on Saturday July 30th.