Allen Dawson Jones

Allen Dawson Jones, born April 5, 1930, in Grifton, North Carolina, to Arthur Leroy and Letha Mae Jones, passed away surrounded by the love and memories of his family. He was called to his heavenly home on October 1, 2026.

Allen proudly served his country for four years in the United States Navy, where he displayed his tenacity as a heavyweight boxing champion and became known as the base commander’s most revered baseball player. He went on to enjoy an 18-year career in professional baseball as a highly respected catcher, coach, and, ultimately, a successful manager. Following his baseball career he found success as an insurance executive, land developer, home builder, and roofing manufacturer’s representative.

Throughout his life, Allen found joy in many activities, including coaching his grandsons’ youth baseball teams, providing leadership in promoting sports among church youth, gardening, working the land, and reading. He was an avid fan of the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Florida Gators and in more recent years, never missed a Tampa Bay Rays game. Known to many as “BIG AL,” he shared his lifelong love of sports and competition with family and young people alike, encouraging dedication, discipline, and excellence by all who participated under his watch.

“Papa” as is he was known by family, is survived by his children, Peter Allen Jones and Karen Jones Clifford (Rick); four grandchildren Jessica Jones Currin (Randy), Ross Clayton Clifford (Katie), Ashley Jones Biernacki (Scott), Peter Ray Clifford (Whitney); and nine great-grandchildren Raleigh, Taylor, Makenna, Levi, William, Madelyn, Kai, Luke, and Millie. He was predeceased by his brothers, Vernon Arthur Jones, David Rudolph Jones, and sister Virginia Aileene Jones.

Allen loved his family deeply, and his faith in the Lord was a guiding force in his life. He treasured his church family and will be remembered for his charisma, devotion, warmth, and the lasting love he shared with those around him.

A private funeral service will be held for the family on Tuesday October 13 and a celebration of life for Allen will be held and announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers send contributions to Holiday Hill Church, 730 Mandalay Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32216