OBITUARY
Dr. Kent Lewis Jones
February 2, 1942 – November 25, 2018
Dr. Kent Lewis Jones, age 76 of Jackson, passed away on Sunday, November 25, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Kent was born on February 2, 1942 in Louisville, KY to the late Charles and Marie Jones. He grew up in Mansfield and Upper Arlington, OH. Kent was a graduate of Ohio State University (B.S.), Oklahoma State University (M.S., Ph.D.), University of Kentucky (M.D.), and University of North Carolina (Surgery Residence). Kent was a General Surgeon with the Jackson Clinic for 30 years retiring in 2010, and he served on the Jackson Clinic Board of Directors. He also served as Chief of Staff at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital. He was instrumental in starting the EMT Program at Jackson State Community College.
He was an avid cyclist, getting many others interested in cycling. He helped start "Spokes," a local cycling club, and the annual Bagels and Bluegrass Century Bike Ride which has been going on for 17 years. The event raises funds for JSCC and two of our local state parks. He also rode his bike from the U.S. continental coast to coast (Pacific to Atlantic) twice.
Kent loved the Lord and supported various ministries. He taught men's bible studies at Evangelical Community Church where he was a member and elder. He also served on the Young Life Committee. He had a servant's heart and the gift of mercy. He loved his family and was a good husband, father, and grandfather.
Kent is survived by his wife of 52 years, Margaret (Peg) Jones; four sons, Michael Jones (Beth), Douglas Jones (Christy), Chris Jones (Laura), Steven Jones (Jennifer); grandchildren, Mary Kathryn (MK), Asher, Wittmer, Samuel, Eric, Margie, Christopher II, Jonah, Noah, Gigi, Luke, Mimi, Zinnia, Lainee, Bryce, Belle, Ian, Collin, and Samantha; two sisters, Mary Cannon of Prattville, AL and Barb Wilhelm of Dublin, OH; and sister-in-law, Pat Jones of Upper Arlington, OH.
The family wishes to thank the helpers who have been wonderful to Kent during his illness are Trish Weis, Al Kozlowski (PT), Emma Belser, Sabrina Lee, Debbie Griggs, and LaVerne Shields.
Funeral arrangements are being conducted by George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 8, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Cornerstone Community Church, 730 Pipkin Rd., Jackson, TN. The family will receive friends and loved ones at a visitation from 9:30 - 11 a.m. at the church.
In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials in Kent's memory to Young Life, Birth Choice, or Child Evangelism Fellowship.
Services
- Visitation with Friends and Loved Ones Saturday, December 8, 2018
- Memorial Service Saturday, December 8, 2018
REMEMBERING
Dr. Kent Lewis Jones
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYRon Barry
December 8, 2018
When I combine character, integrity, compassion, curiosity, wisdom, and a heart for God, the person of Dr. Kent Jones will ALWAYS come to my mind. I'm sure he's peppering Jesus with all kinds of interesting questions even now as I think of him - and that's how I will always think of him, because I think he spent a lot of time every day doing just that. May God grant the richest of comfort to his wonderful family, and may this family know beyond a shadow of a doubt how MANY earthly lives were given a blessing and a heavenly direction because of this magnificent man.
Dr. J. Tyler Swindle
December 7, 2018
Peg and rest of the family, I am so sorry of the loss of Kent. We arrived to Jackson to practice medicine near the same time. We spent much time primarily at General Hospital and cared for many of the same patients. He and I always got along well together and respected each others medical knowledge greatly. We were good friends. I will truly miss him. I am sorry that I have to be out of town for the visitation and service at Cornerstone Community Church. I will be thinking of you all. Sincerely, Dr. J. Tyler Swindle
Vera Holmes
November 30, 2018
I started working with Dr. Jones in 1982 at Jackson Madison County General Hospital as a LPN on 10 North. He is someone I will never forget. I am grateful to have worked with him.
Vera Holmes- LPN
Edna Zuraw
November 27, 2018
Dear Peg and Family,
Such a loss of a wonderful man of God. I received the Lord through Young Life many years ago and still serve Him with Child Evangelism Fellowship now for 58 years. Dr. Jones support both ministries and served in so many other ways. I am blessed to know Peg and to have known Dr. Jones. Your loss is for sure Heaven's gain. But oh how everyone has and will miss him. I am praying for your family with much love and deep appreciation.
Edna Zuraw
Child Evangelism Fellowship
Barbara Sellers
November 27, 2018
Dr. Kent Jones was one of the surgeons at Jackson Madison County County General where I worked in the units for 5 years in the 1980s caring for critically ill surgical patients. Most times it was like being on a Battleground to save people's lives. Whether we won or lost the battle, Dr Jones always seemed to be a hero because of how hard he fought to save people's lives. He was always an inspiration, so apt to teach and was so kind to everyone. A special thing I remember is that you never were around Dr Jones very long until you heard him mention his faith in God. I am grateful to have known and worked with him. I pray God's Comfort to his family.
Mary Frances Christie
November 27, 2018
Dr. Kent Jones operated on my father-in-law in 1982, for an aneurysm on the renal aorta. He was in surgery for 18 hours because my father-in-law had a massive heart attack on the table. Dr. Jones fought so hard to save him, at times holding that artery shut with his gloved hands to try and stop the bleeding. Absolutely amazing, and my father-in-law survived that surgery. After the first ordeal, with only a few hours between, Dr. Jones operated again, to try and get some blood flow to my father-in-law's legs. Again, he fought hard and gave it all he could, but it was just not possible to save his patient, and a few hours after that 2nd surgery of three hours, Jack Christie Sr. passed away. I have never forgotten how hard Dr. Jones tried, and how exhausted he was when the ordeal was over for both of them. I have held him in deepest respect as a surgeon and as a kind and caring person. I'm sad for his family, and I am praying for them. Rest in peace, Dr. Jones, well done.
Mike Gillespie
November 27, 2018
I remember Dr. Jones as a kind, gracious and caring man. He performed a minor surgery on my shoulder during our sojourn in Jackson 1984-1992: it was my first "experience" with surgery of any kind. We also were spectators together as our sons participated in the Summer Midnight Basketball League at T. R. White Sportsplex in the summer of 1991 - some very late hours in a very warm facility! My sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Jones family and friends.
Brady Murray
November 26, 2018
Praying for the Jones family. I am so saddened but I also know that Dr Jones is in heaven with Jesus. I have so many great memories of the Jones family and spending so much time at their house growing up. The Jones family had a major impact on my life as well. They gave me an opportunity that helped me greatly and I am so thankful. I see that is a recurring theme in these memorials. Such a wonderful family and Dr Jones was a very caring and giving man. I remember everything from fishing and hay rides to being quite in the house because Dr Jones worked the night shift. Thank you Dr Jones for changing so many lives and to Peg also.
Brady Murray
Rockwall, TX
Nelson Quillen
November 26, 2018
I first met Kent years ago on the Focus on the Family benefit ride when he and and wife hosted all of us at his house for a meal. I was immediately drawn to him and felt like I had known him my whole life. He had a way of making you feel comfortable and was a pleasure to talk to. Over the years I did several BRAT rides with him and always looked to forward to spending the week catching up. I will truly miss him. My prayers are with his family.
Nelson Quillen
Kingsport, Tn.
Robert McBroom
November 26, 2018
God used Dr. Jones to radically change the direction of my life. He poured into me week after week for over 2 years. Holding me accountable and challenging me to live for Christ each day. Through the discipling of Dr. Jones, God positioned me to hear the call to vocational ministry. I used the things he taught me each day and I am following his example of making disciples. Thank you Peggy for opening up your home and sharing your family with me. Kathy and I will be praying for you and your family.
John Powell
November 26, 2018
I will always be grateful for the lessons I learned from Dr. Kent as I watched how he led his wife and family. He was such a man of integrity and grace. I am so blessed to have witnessed his and Peg's heart for ministry. He always put others before himself and I will never forget that lesson. My prayers and condolences go out to Mrs. Peg and her family. I know that our loss is Heaven's gain.
Vickie Ellis
November 25, 2018
I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He is now with his Lord and Savior. He was a kind, gentle soul. He was a respected surgeon and person. Great name too. He operated on our son when he was 2y.o. and I was told he prayed before every surgery. His heart and mind were in the right place. The one thing you leave this earth with are memories and your name. He was blessed with both. a good and faithful servant. Prayers for all.
Terry Hill
November 25, 2018
Dr. Kent Jones was an awesome person, and very supportive of those he knew. I met Dr. and Mrs. Jones several years ago. I taught and coached Doug and Stevie at North Side HS. They were loving parents, and very supportive of all their children, as well as me as a person, and coach. Prayers and condolences for the family. Rest In Heavenly Peace Dr. Kent Jones.
Elizabeth Gross, RN
November 25, 2018
Such a kind and pleasant fellow. I assisted him with stitching a patient’s scalp up on the floor at the hospital as a new nurse many years ago. He was so patient and kind. I worked at the Jackson Clinic for many years also and he did some minor surgery on me. He was so kind! Then I watched him become a patient. Always kind. I am sure he has been a good and faithful servant! God bless his family. All I ever knew of this man was good! So sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Gross, RN ♥️🙏🏻
Dale Dawson
November 25, 2018
I worked in the Emergency Room at Jackson General for 13 years. I consulted with Dr Kent Jones on many surgical patients over that time and it was always a pleasure to talk to him. I know he will be missed by many. My prayers are with the family for comfort.
Dale Dawson, PA-C
Belinda Campbell
November 25, 2018
I was privileged to both work at the clinic and be a patient of his. I honor his love of his Savior and the love he shared with his patients throughout the world. I feel sure he has heard the words "well done my good and faithful servant."
Ginger Newbill
November 25, 2018
Saddened to hear of Dr Jones passing . Worked many years as one of his receptionist at The Jackson Clinic . He was a fine surgeon and most of all he treated everyone with kindness . I watched him interact with many patients throughout the years and he always calmed their fears . He blessed so many ,including me . Prayers for Peg and all his family . Thank you ,Dr Kent Jones for the positive Christian attitude you always shared.
Karen Gurley
November 25, 2018
I have so many fond memories of riding bicycles with Dr. Jones - he helped me survive the BRAT more than once and helped me with my cycling journey. He was a kind and compassionate man and also a Godly man - heard many times from his former patients that he would pray with them before surgery. My thoughts are with Mrs. Peggy and the family.
Brenda McKeen
November 25, 2018
I worked at the Jackson Clinic for 10 years and had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Jones. Like many others, he took care of my family members. I have always had the utmost respect for him. He will be greatly missed.
Cathy Brown
November 25, 2018
So saddened to hear this news today. I worked many cases with Dr. Jones in the Emergency Department. He was not only the finest of trauma surgeons but had the ability to teach even in stressful situations. He was such a kind and compassionate man to his patients and their families. Later in life, I had the privilege of working with he and his sweet wife Peggy on some community education. Their love for Christ was evident in all they did. Praying for the family.
Vivian Maness
November 25, 2018
I worked 10 years in the ER. Thankful I got to know Dr. Jones. Top of the list doc. Very pleasant, kind and respectful to all. Excellent bedside manner. Told many funny surgery stories. Memories I'll never forget.
Condolences to the family.
Theresa Reynolds
November 25, 2018
Such a kind man!!!!!
Myra Miller
November 25, 2018
I worked with Dr. Jones a lot at JMCGH! He was alway’s such a good kind Christian man who talked about riding his bike. If I was having a bad day ever, he would stop and say a kind word! I appreciated having him as a friend! May you Rest In Peace!
Leah Ashby
November 25, 2018
I am heartbroken to hear of Dr. Jones passing from this life but rejoicing to know he’s with the Lord. Dr. Jones was a regular customer at my store, The Potter’s Garden, where he would spend a lot of time travailing over the right gift for each of his staff and he continued getting gifts for several of his long-time nurses after he retired. After he had those gifts taken care of we would talk in detail about his love’s gift. He loved his Peg and it had to be the “right” for Peg. Every time someone came in the store I would introduce him and it never failed that they knew who he was and had a family member Dr Jones operated on. I told him one day that he had touched so many lives. His eyes filled with tears and said he hoped he wasn’t finished. He wasn’t. I praise God for allowing Kent and Peg Jones to come in my life. I love both of them so much. My heart hurts for Peg but I know that one day we will worship together once again.
Jessalyn Bailey
November 25, 2018
I had the privilege of working as an RN with Dr. Jones at GEN HOSPITAL - plus he was a Doc to several in my family. He was such a fine Christian man. May God comfort his family during this time of parting! 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Kay Richardson
November 25, 2018
Had the pleasure of working many years at the Jackson Clinic with Dr. Jones. He was a teacher at heart. I have nothing but the utmost respect for him. Truly caring and compassionate regarding his patients and also the people he worked with. He will be missed.
Jane Goode
November 25, 2018
One great surgeon and what a trauma surgeon! Many nights spent together in SICU. Prayers for all the family. Many nights he was so tired when called had to tell him to hand the phone to Mrs. Peggy so she could then awaken him. Always very concerned about his patients.
Patsy Day
November 25, 2018
So sad to hear this. Worked with Dr Jones at JMCGH. He was a great surgeon but more than this he was a fine Christian man. I had the privilege of being on a medical mission trip with him. Very compassionate and giving man. Prayers for peace and comfort for the family and friends.
Terry and Dorothy Flowers
November 25, 2018
We were very sad to hear this today. We counted Dr. Jones as a friend. Enjoyed working with him at Regional, but came to know him well when our son, Chuck was severely injured in a car wreck in 1989. He spent the first night with us in Neuro ICU. We could never repay his kindness to us. May God comfort you, Mrs. Peggy during this difficult time. Praying for your family.
Marty Fordham
November 25, 2018
Dr Jones was one of the finest surgeons and gentlemen I have ever had the honor and privilege to work with. He was always so supportive of the OR team. God’s speed my friend.
Jennifer Drye
November 25, 2018
So sad to hear this news! Prayers for the family and friends of Dr. Kent Jones. I worked @ Jackson Clinic, Hospital Charges Dept. as the General Surgery Coder for eight years and learned so much about surgical procedures from Dr. Jones! I always enjoyed discussing his surgery charges and cases with Dr. Jones. My condolences to his family and friends. Dr. Jones was a gem of a person, and will be missed!
Ellen Cary
November 25, 2018
Wonderful teacher during surgical procedures. He cared about the patient & the staff assisting him. Praying for comfort for his family. I feel so blessed to have known him.
Paula Terry
November 25, 2018
Many fond memories of our days at The Jackson Clinic. Treated us every Friday to donuts. Prayers for Ms Peggy and the family.
Sally Hight
November 25, 2018
I was a surgical ward clerk when Dr Jones started working in Jackson. I remember a case he took over, trying valiantly to save a young man's life. I could see the compassion Dr Jones had for the patient. Dr Jones was professional and respectful to everyone.
Jim Warmbrod
November 25, 2018
Remember the family vacation with the Jones’s to Ohio and the many bike rides together. All the Jones’s are in my prayers
Suzanne Carpenter
November 25, 2018
It was my honor to work with Dr. Jones on his first surgical procedure in Jackson and many more in the years following. He was a great teacher, surgeon, and humanitarian. My sincerest condolences are with Ms. Peggy and the family. My prayers will be with all of you in the coming days.
C. Rudolph
November 25, 2018
I send my condolences to the Jones family. May happy memories of Kent bring you comfort as we await the fulfillment of Acts 24:15, which gives us the hope to be reunited with our loved ones who are sleeping in death.
FROM THE FAMILY
IN THE CARE OF