Iola Jones

At an early age, she relocated to Akron, Ohio, where she attended Jerusalem Baptist Church under the leadership of her father, Reverend Powell. She was a devoted member of the Jerusalem Baptist Choir. Later, she united with True Deliverance Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Charles Parmer.

For twenty-five years, Iola served as a foster mother, affectionately caring for many children who were entrusted to her. She also supported charitable causes dear to her heart, regularly contributing to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Feed the Children.

She was known for her beautiful gospel singing voice, her care and compassion for the community, her generosity, her service to the church, and—above all—her deep devotion to the Lord. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and friend.

Iola was united in holy matrimony to Carl Sydney Jones, and from this union came eleven children. She is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Arthur B. Powell; her husband, Carl Sydney Jones; and her children, Dale and Dawn Jones.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Carlton Jones (Washington State), Carla Jones (Studio City, CA), Michael Jones (Akron, OH), Joseph Jones (Washington State), Karen Jones (Akron, OH), Dane Jones (Akron, OH), Mable Jones [Daniel Williams] (Akron, OH), Arthur Jones (Scottsdale, AZ), and Emma VanRheenen [Nathan VanRheenen] (Washington State). She is also survived by her special cousin, Barbara Bolar, her 18 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, bonus grandchildren whom she fostered and loved, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.