On March 24, 1957, Ding married Margaret (Cox) Jones, who survives him.
Ding was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent many years employed at McCarren’s Gravel and later with Peabody Coal, where he worked as a second-shift shovel operator. He also served his community through his work with Bethlehem Township, remaining there until his official retirement in 2005.
He was a proud member of the United Mine Workers Association Local Union 1188 and a faithful member of Park United Methodist Church and Canal Lewisville United Methodist Church. A man who found joy in both hard work and simple pleasures, he loved spending time outdoors, tending to his garden, mowing the lawn, and tinkering, most notably building at least four vehicles over the years.
Above all, he cherished his family and had a special fondness for animals, especially his beloved dog, Molly, who was his car ride companion. He also gave generously of his time, volunteering with the food pantry at New Life Ministries. Known for his kindness and generosity, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Margaret Jones of Coshocton; his daughters, Beth Jones and Andi Reddick, both of Coshocton; his granddaughters, Casey (Ken) Clutter of Coshocton and Kaylin (Clayton) Hoover of Ashville, Ohio; his great-grandchildren, Lilly and Johnny; and his sister, Kathryn Erman of Conesville; as well as several nieces and nephews, and a host of other family, friends, and loved ones.
Along with his parents, Arless and Nellie Jones, he is preceded in death by his son-in-law, Rick Reddick; his brothers, Vearl Parks, Bill Jones, and Jimmy Jones; his twin sister, Eunice Devol; and his sisters, Betty Baumgardner and Linda Worthington.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday April 11, 2026, at Given-Dawson-Paisley Funeral Home, with Pastor Bill Jones and Pastor John Bramley officiating. Calling hours will begin at 10:00 AM, prior to the service.
For those who wish, memorial donations may be made in Ding’s name to the American Heart Association, the Cushing's Support & Research Foundation (CSRF), the Canal Lewisville United Methodist Church, the Coshocton County Animal Shelter, and/or your local food pantry.
An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawson-paisleyfh.com.
