James McKee Jones was born November 13, 1937 to Ellsworth McKee Jones and Lucretia (Thomas) Jones in Washington, PA. They were a relatively poor family, but made their way by hard work and creativity. When young, Jim would scour the railroad tracks for pieces of coal which had been dropped. That coal would help keep their home warm in winter. The family also hunted for food when they could, in fact Jim remembered hunting “small game” and fishing with his father. He would continue fishing with his dad later in life as well. When Jim was in grammar school, the family moved to Chicago. He attended Lane Tech H.S. and Waller H.S. before dropping out to attend Trade School. He became a Tool and Die Maker, which was a very specific and technical trade, highly sought after in Chicago. He used to say that Die Makers were treated as royalty in a manufacturing company. Also being a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Union for 25 years. Jim married Sally Marie Gloppe on October 26, 1957 at Bethlehem United Church of Christ and on June 22, 1960 Debra Sue Jones was born. On December 7, 1987 his only grandchild was born. Hope Marie Vitale was instantly the apple of his eye and he adored her. As a small child she would spend most weekends with Papa and Grandma and most Saturdays she would accompany them on their errands. The errands would always include a stop at “Winking Dog” hot dog stand. They would also occasionally enjoy a Wendy’s Frosty (also known as a “snowman” by Hope). They often had “deep” discussions and recently even discussed Socrates (a subject that he probably never dreamed of having). Jim is survived by his wife Sally, his daughter Deb (Jones) Vitale, granddaughter Hope Marie Vitale, sister Shirley (Jones) Miller, many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by beloved brother Ellsworth (Bud) Jones, father Ellsworth M. Jones and mother Lucretia (Thomas) Jones as well as many beloved friends including Tom Beatty and Dave Cumberledge. He will be greatly missed. Arrangements under the direction of Palm Northwest Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.
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