George Benson Jones

George Benson Jones, 75, of Mcloud, OK passed away peacefully on January 6, 2024. George was born September 26, 1948 to Ethel Merrel, soon adopted by Casey and Erma Jones. George grew up in Longview, TX and graduated from Longview high school in 1968. After graduation, George joined the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1973 and honorably served in the Vietnam War. Upon returning from Vietnam, George moved to Shawnee, OK where he attended the Police Academy and became a Shawnee Police Officer for 9 years before settling in at Tinker AFB where he retired after 37 years of service. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile. Despite the pain, George came out a hero and stayed strong until the end.

In 1969, George joined the Army and proudly served his country during 1969 – 1973. During this time, George demonstrated the true valor and honor being awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Campaign with three Bronze Star Medals, Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, and Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation. Each of these represented George’s dedication and commitment to his country.

George met the love of his life, LaDonna Sue, while he was a Shawnee police officer. As he told the story, George pulled LaDonna over for running a stop sign while she drove to work. It was love at first sight. Each time he told the story it got a little longer with a few more white lies. They were married on June 28, 1979. They were married 35 years before LaDonna preceded him in death in 2015. Together, they had one child: Robyn Lynne Watkins of Mcloud and three stepchildren Dale, Susie, and Lisa. George has two grandchildren Hunter Watkins and Kylyn Watkins of McLoud, 7 step grandchildren, 9 great step grandchildren. He is survived by daughter and son-in-law Robyn and Kyle Watkins of Mcloud, one sister Ann Boyd of Texas and one brother Roy Hafer of Florida and numerous family and friends.

Dad, we will miss you immensely. You were our “go to” when we needed a laugh or a flash light. You always made sure we were taken care of before yourself. Even though you may have fixed things until they were broken, we will miss those calls to help you fix them. We are better people because of you. We will forever keep you in our hearts.