Philip Everett Jones

Phil was born May 2, 1947 in Quincy, Massachusetts to Frank Edward Jones and Dorothy Louise Jones; the fourth of five children. He spent winters skating on the neighborhood pond and summers getting into trouble with his friends. Phil was a rambunctious youth who was ready to venture outside of his hometown, but it always remained close to his heart.

He graduated from North Quincy High School in 1965 and shortly after, enlisted in the Navy as a Torpedoman in 1966. Fixing and testing torpedoes, he spent his time as a sailor stationed on ships, Guantanamo Bay, Key West, and Jacksonville. Joining the Navy gave Phil the opportunity to see more of the world and allowed him to discover his preferred climate of Florida.

Phil married his wife, Betty Dillmon in October 1968 and they welcomed a baby girl in December 1969. The two were both happily transplanted in sunny Jacksonville, Florida.

In 1978, Phil began his long-term career at Commercial Metals Company as a Crane Operator. Balancing work and family life, he also enrolled in Jones College and completed his Business Associate degree in June of 1980. A night owl, Phil spent most of his shifts overnight and enjoyed his work.

Phil spent several years, later in his life, traveling around the United States, visiting many state parks and national treasures. He loved driving long distances and taking care of his vehicles. On any given morning, you might have found him detailing his everyday driver or the 90s Ford Mustang he kept for a number of years.

He was an avid reader who favored crime mystery thrillers, especially if it was set in his hometown of Boston. Phil enjoyed catching a Boston Red Sox game, grabbing a beer, and listening to classic rock. He held strong opinions and had an unwavering belief in the decency and worthiness of respect of his fellow man.

Phil is survived by his daughter, Tytina “Ty” (Jason) Smith, two granddaughters Ashley and Shelby; sister Susan Comeau and brother Tom Jones.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; brothers Donald Jones and William “Bill” Jones.

Phil was quick to offer a helping hand to his friends, family, and those who needed it. He will be deeply missed.

A gathering of friends for Philip will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills Funeral Home, 850 St Johns Bluff Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32225.