William Jones, Jr Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

William Jones, Jr. (affectionally known as Jones, Buddy, and Uncle Buddy) was born the third of eleven children to the Rev. William Jones Sr., and Essie Lee Jones in Moultrie GA., on April 29, 1932. In 1942 his family moved to Inkster, MI. He attended and graduated from Inkster High School in 1951. Shortly after completing high, William was drafted into the United State Army, serving overseas as a Master Cook from 1952-1954 with the 38th Infantry Regiment/2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War. Achieving the rank of Sergeant, he was awarded numerous awards and decorations to include, the National Defense Medal, United Nations Korea Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Army Combat Infantryman Badge, and Bronze Star Medal. He was united in Holy matrimony to his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Lula Mae Simmons on January 24, 1953. they were married in Detroit, Michigan and recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. To this union, they were blessed with two sons: Cornelius and Tyrone Jones. William accepted Christ as his personal savior in 1944 and was baptized at First Missionary Baptist Church in Inkster, MI. On August 12, 1973, William and his family became Charter Members of New Hop Missionary Baptist Church Wayne, MI. He led songs in the Mass Choir and Male Chorus and worked faithfully in the church on the Official Board as Trustee. In June 2006, he became a Charter Member of New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Inkster, MI. He continued to lead songs and he received standing ovations every time he sang due to his delivery of music, his swag, and unique vocals. He continued serving on the church's Official Board and provided leadership holding the position as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Vice Chairman (twice) and lastly as Trustee Emeritus. William began his United States Postal Service mail carrier position with the City of Inkster on October 22, 1956. During his 15 years tenure with the postal service, he was known as the "singing mailman," honored with the award of "Postman of the Week," and received yearly "Safe Driver" awards. He later worked and retired from Kelsey -Hayes Automotive Plant in Detroit where became a Senior Floor Inspector and Chief Union Steward for the United Auto Workers (UAW). He remained active with the union after his retirement and paved the way for better working conditions for his colleagues. He obtained awards and recognition throughout his life as he was selfless, encouraging and bringing smiles to others when they were in his presence. Preceding William in death, Parents; Rev. William Sr. & Mrs. Essie Lee Jones, Siblings: Jamie Lee, Gladys, Rebecca, Almenta, Juanita Breedlove, Aletha Carwell, Gloria Parson, Mary Hollie, Nathaniel, Dewitt, and Benjamin Jones. William leaves to cherish his memory, A loving wife; Lula Mae Simmons-Jones, Inkster, MI. Two faithfully caring sons; Cornelius (Celeste) Jones, Detroit, MI and Tyrone (Leilani Renee) Jones, Las Vegas, NV. Grandchildren; Natocha Brisker, Piedmont, SC, Jordan Jones, Las Vegas, NV, Carla and Angie Mitchell, Detroit, MI., Four great grandchildren and 1great-great grandchild. One sister-in-law; Evelyn Pace of Inkster, MI; Two brothers in law; Lawrence Simmons, Inkster, MI, Melvin Simmons, Tucson, AR, and a host nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Tributes

William Jones, Jr

April 29, 1932 - March 10, 2022