Robert G.M. Jones, “Buddy”, 87, passed away on October 6, 2024. Buddy was a lifelong resident of Mandarin and the Fruit Cove area. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Janet Jones, brother, Lawrence “Sonny” Jones and the love of his life, Ruthie Jones. He is survived by his daughter, Kim (Allan) Ortagus of Fruit Cove, son, Michael Jones of Fruit Cove, granddaughters, Mandy (Bill) Adams of Keaton Beach and Tonya (Eric) Andorfer of Green Cove Springs and three great grandchildren, Taylor, Waylon and Walker and his furry grandchildren, Belfort, Mia and Bodie.
When Buddy wasn’t enjoying the outdoors and tending to his yard, he loved cheering on the Gators and the Jaguars and enjoyed watching NASCAR with Mike. For many years he was an avid bowler and a teammate of “The Sundowners” at Bowl America in Mandarin. Buddy also looked forward to the annual Julington Creek boat parade every December. He would spend hours setting up Christmas lights along the dock and shore and always welcomed family and friends over to enjoy the boat parade, football, food and great company. Buddy was known for his easy-going, kind and calm demeanor. He will be missed and remembered forever.
The family will hold a celebration of life at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Buddy’s favorite charity, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or to Community Hospice and Palliative Care.
