Ida May Jones

Ida May Barnett was born to Charles and Julia Barnett on March 8th 1928 in Bloxburgh district in the parish of St Andrew, Jamaica West Indies. Ida was the 2nd to last child of 8 children. She attended Bloxburgh Primary School.

Ida is known to many as Godimas. When asked how she acquired that name she explained that at 9 years old she became a godmother to her niece Rita. Her new goddaughter could not say godmother so in trying to teach her to say the name godmother the name Godimas was born.

Ida was baptized in the Church of God 7th day at a very young age and lived her whole life to the glory of God. She was a dedicated and spiritual child of God.

After finishing school Ida went to Kingston to work where she met and married Enos Jones. Ida and Enos have 5 children; Winnifred, Arthur, Alton, Angela, and Christopher. She has 19 grandchildren, and 23 great grandchildren. She adored her family and was a great matriarch of the family.

Ida was an ambitious young woman who wanted the very best for her family. In 1968 Ida had the opportunity to migrate to the United States. It was a difficult decision for her because she had young children at the time. She wanted her family to have a better life and this was the only way she could provide that. After much discussion she decided to embark on the journey. Upon arrival at the airport in Miami Florida, Ida had second thoughts and wanted to return home. God provided a compassionate, kind ticket agent who understood her fears who convinced her to make the trip despite her fears.

She arrived in Beverly Hills California and proceeded to start her new life for the betterment of her family. After a duration of 3 years Ida moved to Brooklyn New York and sponsored her husband and 5 children from Jamaica. It was a proud time in her life to have such an accomplishment. Her family especially was happy to be united with her after what felt like an eternity.

Ida worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Roosevelt Hospital in New York City for many years from the time she arrived in Brooklyn until retirement. In 1987 Ida and her husband moved to Port Richey Florida to start their retirement journey. Ida and her husband travelled extensively during their retirement years. Last year at 95 years of age she went to Europe to visit her sister and family. She enjoyed helping people and making people happy.

Ida had a delightfully infectious smile and a great, larger than life personality. She was a great storyteller. She had a story to match any and all situations. She was known for her storytelling abilities. Ida was loved by everyone who crossed her path. She had a great sense of humor.

She has left a legacy of love and togetherness that will never end. Ida spent her life making others happy in any way she can. She was caring, compassionate, giving and kind. She treasured family and would give a lending hand to everyone she could.

God called her home. She left us peaceful memories; her love will always be our guide; and though we cannot see her she is always at our side. Our family tree is broken, and nothing will seem the same, but as we go home one by one the tree will mend again. We know that she will be with us all of our lives.

God loaned us Ida May Jones 96 years ago. As He reclaimed her now, we give Him thanks for letting us borrow her for as long as He did.

So long Godimas, Mama, Grandma Jones, Mom; we will always love you and miss you. Until we meet again in the kingdom of God.