George Robert Jones

He is survived by his beloved wife Ann as well as one daughter Sarah Ellis, two sons, John and Mark Jones, and his granddaughter, Corrynn McAlexander. He is also survived by his sister, Lillian Flowers and his younger brother, Steve Jones, along with many nieces and nephews. Dr. Jones was the son of the late Reverend Walter Louis Jones and Anne Cooley Jones. He was also preceded in death by his brother, W. Louis Jones Jr. and his nephew, Robbie Jones.

“Big George” as he was often called due to his height and his larger-than-life personality, was a man of many talents and interests. He became a dedicated Christian at the age of 14 under the preaching of his father. After becoming an Eagle Scout in high school and a member of the Order of the Arrow, he served in Scouting for over 50 years, as a District Executive in both Virginia and North Carolina, as the founding Scoutmaster for Troop 70 Lynchburg, and later as Camp Chaplain at Camp Powhatan. In addition to his many other honors, in 2008 he was awarded the Silver Beaver, one of Scouting’s highest awards.

During the Vietnam Conflict, he served his country as a sergeant in the Air Force, tracking Russian MIRV missiles from the US base in Turkey.

After being discharged from the service, he attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, OK, for a time, graduating with a Bachelors in Criminal Justice & Corrections from Langston University. After several years of street ministry, he was ordained by Tulsa Christian Fellowship in 1982. He later went on to earn a Doctor of Ministry from Bethany Theological Seminary, Dothan, Alabama.

In 1987 he and wife Ann helped establish Cornerstone Community Church in Lynchburg, VA. In partnership with other like-minded ministries, George (& sometimes Ann) traveled to Russia, Ukraine, China, Cuba and Uganda, preaching the Gospel. In 1996 he became Director of Life Outreach, Inc., originally started by his father, through which he continued international outreach, delivering practical supplies and a message of hope through Jesus Christ.

George was also a professional photographer and journalist, a talented artist, and an excellent cook. He was handy with electronics, car repair, and carpentry, as well as working as a bodyguard. Although an excellent hunter, he preferred the quiet of fishing.

In spite of health issues in his later years, George continued to minister to those around him, advising, encouraging, and sharing the love of Jesus. He was a bright light to everyone who knew him and will be greatly missed.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be conducted on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Compassion Church, 1737 Wards Ferry Road, Lynchburg. A graveside inurnment will be conducted on Monday, June 10, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at Presbyterian Cemetery.