Thomas Frederick Jones Jr.

On May 26, 2026, Thomas Frederick Jones, Jr. died with a view of Camelback Mountain, bird sounds, and his dear wife, Keven, and cherished daughter, Julie, by his side. He was 92 years old. On December 14th 1933, Tom was delivered by his grandfather, Benjamin Jones, who was a small town physician in La Porte, Indiana. Tom was the son of Helen Marie Jones and Thomas Frederick Jones, Sr. He and his siter, Judy (Jones Slagle), were raised to expect perfection. The family moved to North Chicago area where Tom attended New Trier High School in Winnetka Illinois. He excelled academically and in sports including in basketball and in what became his primary lifelong passion, golf. It is also at New Trier where he met his forever friend Bill Stoops who predeceased Tom by ten days.

Tom graduated from Brown University with a degree in English; he also learned to love art and classical music. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity and established friendships that lasted his lifetime. Following graduation, he took a position at Harris Bank where he stayed for 36 years. He was known for his integrity , dedication and genuine connection with people. His tenure there was interrupted by being drafted by the Army and ultimately stationed in Stuggart, Germany, assigned to the Intelligence Corps. It was there he met Carmen Mayser who would become his first wife. Back in Chicago and back with Harris Bank, he attended The University of Chicago and was awarded an MBA in Business Finance. He spoke often of his good fortune of taking some classes taught by Milton Friedman.

Tom and Carmen had five children. Tragically, four children (Michael, Andrea, Greg, and Karyn) were born with neurologic issues that took their lives. Carmen was also afflicted with a related neurologic condition and died in 2002. This experience led Tom to dedicate himself to philanthropy and raising funds for the care and treatment of neurological disorders. He became involved with the Brain Research Foundation in Chicago and served as President of the Board. Following being transferred to Phoenix in 1983 to be President of Harris Trust Bank of Arizona, he served on the Barrow Neurological Foundation Board. He also became involved with Scottsdale Healthcare (now HonorHealth) and served on the Foundation Board of Trustees, including three years as chair. Tom was a founding supporter of the HonorHealth Bob Bove Neuroscience Institute Symposium fostering collaboration among leading physicians locally and nationwide. His philanthropy was extended to Valley of the Sun United Way. Ability 360 and the Phoenix Symphony.

Tom and Kevin Richardson were introduced by a mutual friend in March 2004. Following their marriage later that year, they enjoyed a life of overseas travel, golf and fostering close friendships. Their life was filled with fun, including visits to their shared grandchildren; Alex Richardson (26), Ahna Berk (25), Amanda Richardson (23), Ethan Berk (21), Mary Frances Richardson (15) and William Richardson (12). He is also survived by his daughter. Julie and her husband, Richard Berk and by his beloved sister’s children; Susan, Doug, and Tom

Tom shared his passion for golf with a host of friends and also with his beloved Keven. It is possible he may have been known for a swear word or more when his game fell below expectations. Somewhere along the line he became an ardent Ohio State football fan. Most recently Tom could be captured enjoying a newly discovered dedication to plogging while walking his neighborhood. He was adored by many neighbors for his friendly demeanor and sense of humor. He was a kind and good man who deeply loved his wife, his daughter, their families, and many close friends. They will be forever grateful for his love and wonderful times, especially the joy and lightness in the last quarter of his life. A service will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to any of his favorite charities or to Hospice of the Valley would be greatly appreciated.

You can also reach Julie at [email protected] She would sincerely value any stories to share about her family of origin that took place before she left Phoenix permanently in 2018