Robert Jones

Robert Lovan Jones was born on June 2, 1947 to the proud parents of Elbert and Bamma Jones.  Robert was the fourth child of eleven born to this union.  Robert, “Blue” as his classmates called him, attended Westside High School in Lillie, Louisiana where he graduated with honors.  Robert excelled in the classroom and on the field.  He played sports year around as he was a running back in football, a shooting guard in basketball, and a 3rd baseman in baseball.  His love of sports started young. 

After graduating high school ​Robert moved to California in 1966 , where he worked in several industries before settling into his 50 year career in the grocery industry.  Robert worked for Vons Market, and was a Sales Rep. for Kraft Foods, Nestle, Breyers, and other companies where he would build networks with store personnel, who grew to love his spirit and positive demeanor.  Robert retired from this industry in 2012.

​Robert married his loving wife Rosa (Tia) Smith on November 27, 1970.  They spent over 55 years together raising 4 children: Sean (Carolyn), Rysha, Michaelyn, and Kristal (Lemel). He loved his 6 grandchildren: Xiera, Shance, Aiden, Blake, Londyn, and Landon and 4 great-grands: Caméa, Nazih, Miko, and Tumani and his God children Allysia, Brandon, Brittni, Christian and Nia. Robert was a constant presence in his children’s lives as he was always present to support their endeavors.  From sporting events, concert performances, birthday parties, and many other celebrations Robert was there to smile and brag about how proud he was of his children, grands, and great-grands accomplishments.  Robert was the life of the party.  He loved to host events, cook for everyone, and talk about any and everything.  He especially loved to talk about his favorite sports teams, the Dodgers, the Lakers, and the Rams.  On weekends, we would all gather together to cook and watch sports as a family.

In 1977, Robert, Tia, Sean and Rysha joined New Light Church of God in Christ in Santa Monica, now the 88th Street Temple Church of God in Christ in Los Angeles. Robert was a faithful member and tither. He served on the Senior Usher Board and was a deacon in training before moving to Las Vegas in 2007.

After moving to Las Vegas, he became an active member at Victory Missionary Baptist Church. He and his wife Tia were again faithful members of the Welcome Ministry, and later became their ministry’s team leaders.  Robert was also active with other church programs, including Walking Through the Bible and The KeenAgers.

Outside of his professional career, Robert volunteered and worked in variety of roles in sports. Robert was a pillar in youth and high school sports in Southern California for over 30yrs. He spent years coaching, officiating, and cheering for his children, relative’s children, and other athletes across the city. He took pride in his craft and shared his love of sports with so many people.  When he relocated to Las Vegas he picked up where he left off. He made a name for himself as an active member of the Scorekeepers and Timers and Officials of SNOA (Southern Nevada Officials Association). During his time with SNOA, Robert scored and timed basketball and volleyball, officiated track and field, and worked football auxiliary. Most recently, Robert was the Scoring and Timing Basketball Assignor, a position he held for 5 years until stepping down this past season due to health reasons. Robert was also a board member on the scoring and timing committee. His new assignment allowed him to continue to enjoy sports and network with others. Robert knew no strangers and left an impression on everyone he met. From watching sports, to attending church, and spending time with family and friends, Robert simply loved people.  He loved to talk about his family, restaurants, and reminiscing about the good times. Family and friends are truly going to miss those talks. 

On Friday, May 1, 2026, he took his last breath and received his Heavenly reward.  Robert’s parents and his sister, Sherry, preceded him in death.  Robert leaves behind his wife Rosa (Tia) Jones; children Sean (Carolyn), Rysha, Michaelyn, and Kristal (Lemel); grandchildren Xiera, Shance, Aiden, Blake, Londyn, and Landon; great-children Caméa, Nazih, Miko, and Tumani; 9 siblings: Thomas, Veltann, Pastor Charlie Ray, Charlotte, Dawn, James, Debra, Wanda, and Antonio. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, coworkers, and neighbors who loved “Mr. Robert”. 

​Fond memories and heartfelt condolences may be left for the Jones Family at www.palmnorthwest.com.

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