Patricia Eloise Jones

Patricia Eloise Clayton Jones was born on February 11, 1928, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late Helen Irene Harris Clayton and Timothy Charles Clayton. She was the third of four beloved Clayton sisters, growing up in a home filled with love, laughter, and the values that shaped her into the remarkable woman she became. Patricia’s early years were marked by a strong sense of family, community, and a dedication to excellence that carried through every aspect of her life.

Patricia was educated in the Indianapolis Public Schools system, attending elementary schools #19 and #34 before graduating from Crispus Attucks High School in 1945. She continued her education at Indiana University Extension for two semesters following high school.

A lifelong member of St. Mark AME Zion Church, Patricia professed her faith at an early age and remained an active and dedicated servant throughout her life. She served in numerous capacities, including as a Deaconess, Sunday School teacher, choir member, Home Missions Board member, and member of the Colored Women’s Club of Indianapolis. Her faith and leadership were evident in her unwavering commitment to her church and community.

Affectionately known as "Miss Pat" in her neighborhood, "Patty" at church, and "Mother, Mom, Momma, or Aunt Pat" to her beloved family, Patricia was a kind and generous soul whose presence brought warmth and comfort to all who knew her. She had a quiet strength and an open heart, always ready to lend a helping hand, a listening ear, or even a word of encouragement.

Patricia dedicated her life to caring for others, both in her work and in her personal life. Over the years, she held various jobs, including as a clerk at P.R. Mallory, a cashier at Dolly Madison, an aide in the church daycare, and, most importantly, a devoted caregiver. Patricia’s love knew no bounds, whether through her unwavering devotion to her family, her acts of kindness within her community, or her steadfast faith that guided her daily life.

Patricia lovingly tended to her husband, parents, daughter, and countless family members and friends. Even as her own health declined, Patricia’s nurturing spirit never wavered as she continued to put others before herself, offering kindness, support, and unconditional love to those around her. Her legacy of love, compassion, and generosity will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were blessed by her kindness.

On Friday, February 7, 2025, at the age of 96, Patricia Eloise Clayton Jones departed this life. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Adrienne E. Logan; son, Kerry K. Jones; grandchildren, Courtney K. Hardy Sr. (Michelle), Hope A. Jones, and Adele (Chari) Rudolph; sister-in-law, Princola Shields; great-grandchildren, Jasmine Hardy, Courtney K. Hardy Jr. (Quanay), Monique’ Hardy, and Monica Hardy; great-great-grandchildren, Elias Hardy, Courtney K. Hardy III, Quincy Hardy, and Nyomi Jewell; nephew, Steven L. Williams (Marcia); great-nephews, Jeffery Wilson and John Wilson Jr (Heidi); nieces, Diane Byers (Norris), Debra Lynch, Debra Shields, and Nicole Wright; along with a host of extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Timothy and Helen Clayton; husband, Joseph Jones; daughters, Holli D. Jones and Patricia Hyde; and sisters, Hazel Duncan, Matilda Lynch, and Geraldine Colbert.

A visitation for Patricia will be held Friday, February 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46208, followed by a celebration of life at 12:00 PM.