Dorothy L. Jones

Dorothy was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of James and Daisy McClain. She was the fifth of six children, all of whom predeceased her. Dorothy graduated from Des Moines North High School and married Floyd Jon Jones, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage until his passing in 2003. Following her husband's military enlistment, with postings in Texas and Virginia, they returned to Des Moines to raise their family. They spent their time between Des Moines and Spirit Lake, Iowa.

For over 20 years, Dorothy worked for a pediatric doctor's group, while her husband dedicated over 30 years to the Polk County Sheriff Department. Dorothy was known for her holiday baking, sending platters and platters of cookies to her husband's round-the-clock staff during the Christmas season. Upon retirement, Dorothy and Floyd moved to Englewood, Florida, and later to Sebring, Florida. She enjoyed planning and taking vacations throughout the United States and Canada, with each trip including bird watching, flowers, butterflies, and nature.

While living in Sebring, Dorothy was an active member of the Florida Master Gardeners Association, where she contributed her talents at the Highlands County Agri-Center. She wrote periodic guest columns for local newspapers, which were so popular that local garden centers would inquire about her next featured flower or tree to ensure they had them in stock. Her flower garden in Spirit Lake was so admired that a neighbor would "secretly borrow" flowers to take to church each Sunday.

After her husband's death, Dorothy moved to Venice, Florida, to make her home with her daughter, Sharon. She was an avid Lightning Hockey fan, attending several games each year.

Dorothy is survived by her son, David (Barbara, deceased), of West Des Moines, Iowa, and her daughter, Sharon, of Venice, Florida, along with her beloved cat, Zoey.

In keeping with Dorothy's wishes, no services are planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Yellowstone Forever Association, the National Audubon Society, or Tidewell Hospice of Sarasota County.