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Paul Jones Obituary
Jones died in Atlanta on Tuesday after a brief illness, said University of Alabama spokeswoman Angie Estes. The university established an art collection in Jones' name after receiving some 1,700 pieces valued at $5 million in 2008.
Despite humble beginnings in Alabama and never independently wealthy, Jones began buying pieces in the 1960s after noting African-American art was underrepresented in public galleries.
As the drawings, paintings, photographs, sculptures and other works grew into the hundreds, part of his collection was exhibited at the University of Delaware in 1993. He later made a gift of several hundred works to the school.
"My goal has been to incorporate African-American art into American art," he told The Tuscaloosa News in 2008 when he made his donation to the Univ ersity of Alabama with a plan for it to be part of the curriculum.
He embraced the school even though he was turned down by the University of Alabama Law School in 1949 after it discovered he was black.
Born in Bessemer, Ala., in the central part of the state, he was raised in the Muscoda Mining Camp of an iron and steel corporation. Jones attended historically black Alabama State University in Montgomery and finished his education at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
Described as a civil rights activist, he worked with an interracial community group in Birmingham, Ala., and held jobs with the federal government for 15 years before becoming deputy director of the Peace Corps based in Thailand.
When his collection grew into the hundreds, he decided it should be used for educational purposes.
"I knew I could sell the collection at its appreciated price, and get myself a chauffeur, a cook, a maid, and travel the world," he was quoted on a Univer sity of Delaware Web site devoted to his collection. "But, I realized I wanted to do something with my collection that would have a lasting impact, both in my lifetime and beyond."
Survivors include his son, P.R. Jones of California, according to the University of Alabama.
A funeral service will be held at Cascade United Methodist Church in Atlanta at a date to be determined.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
66 Entries
Arabella Grayson
September 16, 2010
God bless you, Paul. May you rest in peace. My prayers are with your family and friends. I only learned yesterday of your passing. I am grateful to have known you. Your wise counsel and encouragement over the years made a tremendous difference in my life. Thank you for sharing your passion for art with the world.
Helen West
April 2, 2010
My Dear Friend, Paul R. Jones, Rest in Peace. It was an honor to know you and you will always be remembered.
Lydia Wynn
February 18, 2010
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010
How you can show support
Gail Middlebrooks
February 9, 2010
Paul Jones will be missed. His knowledge of Black Art and Artist can't be replaced. Rest now Paul, job well done.
February 8, 2010
Rest in peace Paul Jones. Your will truly be missed. Mary B. (Riverdale, GA.)
Darlene Roth
February 5, 2010
It was my great good fortune to know Paul and to get him involved with the Atlanta History Center, when I was still there on staff. My life was so enriched by knowing him and by seeing how passion and love for humanity can shape a life. Paul transformed some part of everything and everyone he came in contact with. My heart goes out to his family and to Amalia.
Ife
February 5, 2010
g.To P.R.and family,
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Paul left a legacy of great passion; Passion for family, passion for art/artist, passion for humanity, and passion for life. I learned so very much from him. Thank you for sharing your father with the world and especially me. I love you PR and my love for Paul is everlasting
Wendy Merritt
February 3, 2010
Paul Jones was Mr. ART! I will always appreciate his support when I gave Artist Ernie Barnes a special luncheon at Bugatti's Restaurant/Omni Hotel.He spoke on behalf of art collectors worldwide. Thank you for your love of the arts and sharing your collections with the world. Prayers and blessings sent to his family. Colossians 1:9-21
Juanita
February 3, 2010
To a wonderful man and the Jones family. Sharing is a good way of life for all who wants to follow your steps closely. May the family draw comfort from the wonderful memories you shared with the world. May God hold you in His memory. Psalms eighty three and verse eighteen.
mario afaneh
February 3, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Libby Anthony
February 3, 2010
My dear, dear friend has gone on to eternal rest. Paul LOVED! art, life, culture, helping, being...and I'm sure that's why God so blessed him...Gosh I don't remember when I didn't know Paul (even worked in his campaigns) such great memories...I'll always love you. Stay blessed, Paul - hold high all he esteemed. My condolences to you and the rest of the family.
Cleve Finley-Hutchins
February 2, 2010
To the Jones Family
I never met Mr. Jones, but saw a beautiful tribute to him on TV. As a graduate of the University of Alabama, I was very proud of his decision to make the contribution to the school. He will forever live in our hearts!!
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa Graduate
Patrice Bryant Pollard
February 2, 2010
The Pollard family extends its sympathy to all family and close friends. I had the honor of being flown to Paul's home to celebrate my 18th birthday many years ago. More recently,I was able to see him again when he was honored at UDEL where my oldest son attended.
Joan Newman
February 1, 2010
I worked for Model Cities many years ago. Paul was a wonderful inspiration in the quest for helping others. Please know he will not be forgotten.
February 1, 2010
i had the fortunate pleasure of meeting mr. jones, and i had a lot of respect for his selection of artwork-he will be missed by all of his artist friends-he had a way of encouraging artists witha warm smile
eric clowers
morehouse college -1977
ba in art
Michael German
February 1, 2010
Paul, was an exceptional and accomplished man who has left an indelible mark on the art community of the world. I am a better person for having known him.
Pat Lottier
February 1, 2010
I was so sorry to hear that Mr. Jones left us. I had the pleasure of knowing him just for a couple of years and also he was so kind to invite me to view his art collection. My heart goes out to his family. It is never easy to say goodbye to those we love.
February 1, 2010
I am amazed at the talent that God has placed in so many persons...and how He has blessed us with their presence and with those gifts...and how they have shared those talents with us...and sadly, how often they come and go without us saying "thank You" to Him or to them...thank You Lord...and thank you Mr. Jones!!!
Margaret McLeod Cain - Hampton, VA
February 1, 2010
My utmost sympathy to the family of Mr. Jones. I met Mr. Jones at an Art Show and he was a wonderful person with a great heart. He will be missed.
Regina R. Nicholson
February 1, 2010
My utmost sympathy to the family of Mr. Jones. I met Mr. Jones at an Art Show and he was a wonderful person with a great heart. He will be missed.
cindy duong
February 1, 2010
I love you, Daddy!
Since I knew you, You are my best friend, best comforter, best adviser, best Godfather in the world.
I want to say that I love you forever!
Cindy Duong
viet tran
February 1, 2010
We just want to let you know that , We all love you!
Cindy, Viet, Tin, Johnny(Georgia).
L'Tanya Reed Lovelace
February 1, 2010
I will always remember Paul as gracious, insightful and energetic. His life was characterized by his own sense of purpose, his own focus.
art eubanks
February 1, 2010
You were indeed and artist in your own right. May peace be with you and all that are close...art eubanks
Bill Gillespie
February 1, 2010
Paul was generous with his kind smile! It was a pleasure to have been able to know him.
Dorothy Jennings
February 1, 2010
As Director of Model Cities,Charlotte, N.C.,Paul
implemented a structional Model for other Cities
to follow,and I have benefited beyond measures in local,state , and federal planning.
Thank you Paul.You will be missed.
"Dottie
Dorothy Jennings
January 31, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Susan Todd-Raque
January 31, 2010
Paul was such a kind and gentle man whom I had the pleasure of knowing. The world seems a bit sadder without his presence. My condolences to his son and to Amalia.
S. Williams
January 31, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort and may the God of all comfort be with you and your family. (2 Corinthians 1:3)
ANN WHITE
January 31, 2010
To the family of MR PAUL JOHNS, May the GOD of Love grants you the peace and comfort you need during this time of sorrow.
Niki Glover
January 31, 2010
Mr. Jones,
May you rest in peace. I will always remember you for your thoughtfulness and willingness to help those in need.
Thank you.
Binta Masani
January 31, 2010
I offer my prayers to the Paul R. Jones family during this final transition period. Mr. Jones was a person who never saw limitations…only opportunities. In every sense of the word, Paul R. Jones was an emancipator of black art and black artists. In the spirit of Sankofa, Paul R. Jones taught us how to "go back and reclaim our past so we could reap the benefits of the future." What a wonderful legacy Mr. Jones has left for us to cherish and uphold.
I will miss your encouraging talks with me and great optimism, Paul.
Gail Gamble
January 31, 2010
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Paul R.Jones. Be assured that the Bible promises that Our Heavenly Father will wipe out every tear from our eyes and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.
Bess Hackett-Jones
January 31, 2010
To "Little" Paul,
We are happy that "Big" Paul had such a long and fruitful life. Memories of him will always be with us.
Bess and Antoinette
January 31, 2010
"Our deepest condolences, love and respect to one of the most wonderful and inspiring individuals we have met in our lives. Truly a dear uncle and respected man. Sorry it took so long for our paths to cross, but, in the short time we spent together, his life and words were encouraging and extremely helpful."
From Maxine Stone, Byron Stone, Shona Ortega (Potts), Diane and Greg Jones
January 31, 2010
A wonderful fun and dear person
Rest in peace.
Lee Lowe
Pattie C Lee
January 30, 2010
To the family of Mr Paul R.Johns.
i want to give you my deepest condolences,may the God of love give you a peace of mind,john,5:28.29.the future is bright,you can count on it because Almighty God Promise it.
LUCY KIMBLE
January 30, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Wanda Parrish
January 30, 2010
I want to give my condolences and prays Mr. Paul Jones and family.
I know angels come in many forms and I have truly been blesses by
one. I have been blessed to be around perfect angel which was Mr. Jones and that I am forever grateful. He will be truly miss.
From Miss Wanda Parrish in Atlanta, Ga.
CHARLES A. HAYWOOD & FAMILY
January 30, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Brenda Keyton
January 29, 2010
My condolences to the Jones family and Amalia Amaki. Paul was such a loving and humble gentleman, and my life has been touch just by knowing him,he inspired others to be the best that they could be. It must be wonderful for the Lord to have such a beautiful angel in his arms.
Calvin Stevens
January 29, 2010
Calvin and Eleanor Stevens express our deepest sympathy for the loss of Mr. Paul R. Jones.
January 29, 2010
What an inspirational life! He made extraordinary contributions to the world of art. God bless him and bring comfort to his loved ones.
A Lewis
January 29, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this season. I feel so very blessed to have known such a wonderful, kindhearted person.
The Lewis Family
January 29, 2010
Our deepest sympathy to P R Jones Jr and family I never knew Mr. Jones but my mother who grew up with him in Bessemer says he was a wonderful person very pleasant, she says he went on to do great things, and so I've read. Our hearts go out to you all in your time of sorrow, but know that our heavenly Father cares and shares your grief please read (Psalms 145: 18,19) And may you find much comfort in the days to come.
The Lewis family
January 29, 2010
Our deepest sympathy to P R Jones Jr and family I never knew Mr. Jones but my mother who grew up with him in Bessemer says he was a wonderful person very pleasant, she says he went on to do great things and so I've read. Our hearts go out to you all in your time of sorrow, but know that our heavenly Father cares and shares your grief please read (Psalms 145: 18,19) And may you find much comfort in the days to come.
W. Hargrove
January 29, 2010
Thank you, Mr. Jones, for your selflessness and generosity toward American culture. May the Lord bless you and your family.
Santina Sanders
January 29, 2010
I can truly say that I am saddened by the passing of Mr. Jones. Mr Jones was a patient here at Kaiser Permanente. He was 1 patient that I truly looked forward to seeing. His presence and grace will certainly be missed.
Santina Sanders/Kaiser Pharmacy Cascade
Deborah Gipson
January 29, 2010
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of such talented person. It is always davasting when we lose a love one to death. May you find comfort in knowing that God care for you. (1Peter 5:7) "While you throw all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you."
Wanda Polite & Family
January 29, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
joyce jones
January 29, 2010
To the Jones Family: May I offer my sincere condolences to you on the loss of such a distinguished and stately gentleman, Mr. Jones. Death is an enemy that robs us of our loved ones. May you take comfort in knowing that soon death will be destroyed (1Cor.15:26)and we will find unspeakable joy in seeing our loved ones again. May you find comfort and hope held out to us in God's Word. My deepest sympathy to you.
Dr. Preston McKever-Floyd
January 29, 2010
I extend my deepest condolences to the Jones family and friends. I had the pleasure of meeting Paul in 1987 through my friend, Dr. Amalia Amaki, and viewing a large part of his collection in his home. A great treasure has left us, but he left a great treasure in art to the world.
Staycie
January 29, 2010
Our heartfelt condolences to the Jones family on their loss. I sincerely hope that you find comfort in the Bible's promises for the future.
J Robinson
January 29, 2010
Thanks for the knowing and recognizing the importance of African-American art. It is my hope that your legacy will live forever.
January 29, 2010
Thank you so much for your contributions to our History -- if not for you some of our greatest treasures would have been lost. May God grant your Hearts Peace and many, many Precious Memories.
Ann Hall - Toledo, Ohio
Charles Lawrence
January 29, 2010
Deepest Smpathy to the Jones Family.AS a Howard Grad I knew of Mr. JOnes and his Great Contribution to the World. I talked to him once about his property.He was a Great person and a pleasure to talk to. We will continue keep his family in prayer.
January 29, 2010
Our condolences to the Jones family and dear friends. He inspired us to be better keepers of our culture! I was present at his Art Collectors Conversation at Studio Clout in Atlanta! Wow!!!!!, We should have the courage and conviction to take care of so many people who love their passion......art.
Vivian & Gerard
Anthony Hines, I
January 29, 2010
To the Paul R. Jones, Sr. Family:
I am saddened to hear of your loss. The African-American community and the nation have lost a valued citizen whose contribution to our society is immeasurable.
May God bless your family during this time and comfort you.
January 29, 2010
I met Mr. Jones through Amalia Amaki. He was a pleasant and entertaining conversationalist.
Rick Banks
January 29, 2010
My condolences to the Jones family.
R Golay
January 29, 2010
To the the family of Paul Jones - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow,I know that Paul will be missed by many.
K Gray
January 28, 2010
I am sorry to hear about your families lost. Please know that you are not alone, according to John 11:35 even Jesus knew the pain of losing someone he loved. Jesus also experienced the joy of seeing his friend live again. May you find comfort in reading John chapter 11 in your personal Bible.
HG
January 28, 2010
What a wonderful person humbly in spirit he will be missed to the family peace and comfort be with you from the Father of tender mercies (2Cor 1:3,4)
Roslyn Robertson
January 28, 2010
To the family of Mr. Jones, he will truly be missed. Earth has no sorrow that HEAVEN cant heal.Mr. Jones is resting in the hands of the heavenly Father.From Wanda , Dianne
Peggy Anderson
January 28, 2010
I like to think God needed a knowlegeable art lover in heaven. I know Paul will do a great job.
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