James Jones

Loving, creative, and strong-willed, James Jones lived a life rich in family and friends. A man who embodied the principles of his faith, even in the face of life's greatest challenges, Jim welcomed each day as a gift and every person as a friend. Jim led with his heart in all things, had a positive sense of humor, and was a wonderful companion. A devoted family man and friend, Jim will long be remembered by those he so dearly loved.

With the rearming of US forces, the strains of the Great Depression began to ease, Americans' incomes grew, and their increased spending further fueled the economy. In the US, the optimism of leaving the depression behind inspired the making of several classic movies, including "Gone With the Wind" and "The Great Dictator." At the same time, the invigorating sounds of Benny Goodman and Count Basie's Jazz filled our homes with hope. Newly invented Nylon stockings were all the rage with women, and FDR was elected for an unprecedented third term. Despite the ominous winds of change blowing in from Europe, the foundation of hope and generosity our nation had firmly rooted itself. It was within this overwhelming feeling of fortitude, generosity, and hope that the Jones family welcomed their youngest child, Jim. The family was visiting St. Joseph, Michigan, on September 4 when Jim's mother went into labor. Seeking professional care at the nearest hospital, Jim was born shortly after arriving at a psychiatric hospital.

Jim's early years were spent in the good company of his older siblings, Howard, Carol Ann, and Janet, in the family home on National Street in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Jim enjoyed typical childhood play, including playing pilgrims and Indians with his neighborhood friends. He and his siblings played at the local parks, where they sometimes got into trouble. Jim collected newspapers with his siblings and friends and recycled them for a small amount of money. Tragically, Janet was killed while swimming in Lake Michigan when she was 13, and Jim was about 10.

Jim's dad was a delivery man with a horse and buggy. Jim often helped as the horse knew the route to follow. After beginning his schooling at St. James School, Jim attended Union high school up through the tenth grade. Jim started working at Schoonbeck Co. as a furniture upholsterer. Jim was a hard worker who often took long baths after work to soothe his aching hurt.

One fateful day, Jim and a friend were driving down Leonard and saw a few cute girls walking down the road. Having just attended a wedding, the girls were dressed up and making their way home. Jim and his buddy stopped and offered the young ladies a ride. By the time the ride was over, Jim had quickly stolen the heart of Judith "Judy" Mesunas. The pair began dating and, after a whirlwind romance, found themselves deeply in love and making plans to share the future. On May 5, 1962, the happy couple married at the Basilica of St. Adalbert, in Grand Rapids, beginning their 49-year marriage. Soon after marriage, the newlyweds moved to Tamarack Street with the plans of raising a family. In 1963, Jim and Judy were delighted to become parents when their daughter Lori was born. Their daughter Amy completed the family a few years later.

Being a father was Jim's greatest joy. A very active father, Jim worked days and cared for his daughters in the evenings, while Judy worked the second shift at AT&T as a long-distance operator. He made supper and enjoyed watching Little House on the Prairie with his girls. He was very resourceful and crafty, making little towns or playing forts with his daughters. For many years, Jim took Amy to get blood tests every Saturday. The family enjoyed camping, starting with a tent and moving to a trailer. Many weekends were spent exploring Ludington, Traverse City, or Woods and Waters campground. When possible, the family enjoyed sharing an adventure at Cedar Point.

In 1996, Lori passed away at the young age of 32, devastating the family. Leaning on their faith and one another, Jim and Judy did their best to support Amy's young family in Virginia while tending their own broken hearts.

Shortly after Amy was born, Judy was diagnosed with polymyositis, an uncommon inflammatory disease that caused her to have muscle weakness, swelling, and tenderness. It would eventually lead to muscle damage, great pain, and the loss of mobility. Committed to living each day to the fullest, Jim and Judy enjoyed active lives. Whether playing cards, bowling, or traveling, they relished every moment they were given. For many years, Jim and Judy would commonly spent Sunday's at his mother in laws home, playing cards and eating Polish food. He also enjoyed all holidays and always had his house decorated.

As Judy's health problems escalated, Jim's steadfast support provided deep comfort. During her struggles and downward spiral, which confined her to her home for her last five years, Jim lovingly devoted himself to her good care. Sadly, Judy died in 2011. With the unwavering support of his family and friends, Jim bravely faced the future without his beloved. In time, his love for playing cards, going to the casino, and tending his garden helped heal his heart. He retired when he was 63 years old and found much joy in the simple things, like caring for his roses, and memorizing all eleven seasons of M*A*S*H.

Clearly, life feels far less certain in the absence of Jim's steadfast companionship. As we celebrate his wonderful life, may we find comfort in our many treasured memories. May we also find comfort in carrying his legacy of love, creativity, generous care, and good humor forward. In each moment we cherish time with loved ones, enjoy a game of cards or a day at the casino, gather for a homecooked meal, decorate for the holidays, and watch an episode of M*A*S*H, we keep Jim's memory alive and inspiring others as he so inspired each of us.

James (Jim) Jones passed away with his family by his side on Monday, October 21, 2024. He was 84. As we rejoice that Jim's suffering has come to an end, we also celebrate the life of a wonderful man; Jim will be deeply missed and forever loved. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Judith Jones, and daughter, Lori Gilliland. Jim is survived by his daughter and sons-in-law, Amy and Ralph Kendall and Paul Gilliland; grandson, Eric Gilliland; and many friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, October 25, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 520 Myrtle St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. Family and friends can meet with Jim's family at church starting at 10:00 AM. Interment in Holy Cross Cemetery. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Hospice. To share a favorite memory or photo and to sign his online guest book, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.