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Charles Jones Obituary
Charles E. Jones, at age 48;
was astronautical engineer
By Globe Staff, 9/22/2001
A memorial service will be held today for Charles E. Jones of Bedford, an astronautical engineer who died in the crash of American Airlines Flight 11 at the World Trade Center in New York Sept. 11. He was 48.
Mr. Jones was born in Indiana and raised in Wichita, Kan. He graduated from the US Air Force Academy and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a degree in astronautical engineering.
For 23 years, Mr. Jones was a member of the Air Force, spending two years in the private sector before he retired in 1999.
For the past four years, Mr. Jones gave scuba lessons on weekends at Northeast Scuba in Chelmsford.
He leaves his wife, Mary; two sisters, Karen Krause of Wichita and Susan Held of Ohio; and two brothers, Arthur Jones of Virginia and C.E Jones of Kansas.
The memorial service will be at 10 a.m. in the Lutheran Church of the Savior in Bedford.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Lynn Lesher Davis
October 5, 2023
We are going to our Wichita High School East’s 100th birthday celebration tomorrow. I’m reminded of 1970 when Chuck was our first chair clarinet and our drum major for the band. As a sophomore, I was impressed by his leadership. We all saw that he would succeed in life. I’m so sorry we lost him. I hope to see a remembrance at the school in his honor. Continued prayers for the family.
Lynn Lesher Davis
SUSAN GOODWIN
September 12, 2019
I worked with Colonel Jones on a program at HAFB many years ago but remember what a gentleman, great boss with a fantastic smile he was.....I remember you Colonel every 11 September. RIP my friend
Leroy Mills
September 11, 2019
Capt. Chuck Jones worked for me in Secretary of the Air Force, Special Projects, El Segundo in the 1980's. An outstanding officer.
I will long remember him paying the ultimate sacrifice. May we all reflect that freedom is never free. May we value freedom so much as to be ever ready to pay whatever price to secure and maintain it.
A.L.
August 3, 2019
In memory of Charles, a passenger who boarded Flight 11. Rise above us, pal.
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Craig Jones
March 4, 2019
I knew Chuck as a new USAF Lt, as was I. Were were both in Reentry Systems at SAMSO in Los Angeles. People always got us confused. He was 2nd Lt C.E. Jones and I was 1st Lt. C.R. Jones... he was the better looking one! He was always was smiling and in good humor. We also double dated the Hopkins sisters several times. What fun.
Fly long and high...
August 6, 2015
rip
Del Newberry
July 6, 2015
Today as I pause to lift up a prayer for Charles' friends and family, I am humbled as I look at how much he did in those precious few years on earth. The world lost a smart man that day, and I hope his friends and family will know that we will never forget that horrible day. Much love from Texas
September 11, 2014
You are remembered, today and always. May God bless and keep your loved ones.
Chris R
September 12, 2011
I never met him, in fact I'm a total stranger... I'm a student studying engineering and I felt compelled to express my condolences over the loss of a precious life. Rest in Peace Charles E. Jones.
Peggy Childers
September 11, 2011
To the family and friends of Charles E. Jones:
Charles will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not allow those we lost on 9/11 be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you.
SUANNE STEELE
September 11, 2011
Today Charles Jones is honored for his sacrifice and I wear an armband with his name on it as a way to remember him. May you and his family always be blessed by his memory.
Shelly Lamontagne
September 11, 2011
Ten years later and it is still like yesterday - Chuck was one of the favorite friends of my life - so lucky to have known him and shared time with him. His spirit lives on...
Susan White
September 10, 2011
I ran in his memory today at the 911unity 9.11k run in Las Vegas. It was an honor.
Ann Owen
September 9, 2011
I first heard of Mr. Jones after reading the plaque in Taylorsville Reserve in Dayton Ohio. Its a beautiful, peaceful stop on the bike path. I am so sorry for your loss and plan to stop by there on Sunday.
Kenneth Delano
September 9, 2011
I had the honor of working with Chuck twice during our Air Force careers. On my first assignment to Los Angeles AFB, we were in the same program office. He served as an excellent example of an professional officer with a great sense of humor. He was going to be the shuttle payload specialist for one of our DSP satellites, of which I was partially responsible for overseeing assembly and test untill the Challenger accident changed DoD's flight plans.
I ran across Chuck again in 1996 when he was the SPO director at Hanscomb and I was one of his MAJCOM user "customers". His sense of humor was infectious. I still remember him characterizing Goodfellow AFB, where our system was located, as being in "God forsaken west Texas". I was shocked to read the news reports after 9/11.
Taken too young and too soon after retiring from the AF. Chuck, you were avenged on May 2, 2011. We will always remember you and your fine example of service. Blessings to your family, may they have peace knowing that in your too short life you touched and inspired many.
Susan Goodwin
August 30, 2011
My prayers and thoughts are also with you Jones family. I worked with Col (Chuck) Jones at Hanscom AFB and will never forget his friendly demeanor to all, even a contractor as myself. I last saw Mr. and Mrs. Jones coming out of his retirement party all smiles...We will never forget!!!
Jason Koehler
August 19, 2011
My prayers are with your family as the upcoming anniversary approaches. I was honored to ride in the 911 foundation motorcycle ride in your memory. To your family and friends I want you to know you are not forgotten
Nancy Libby
September 9, 2010
Hanscom AFB will never forget you.
Frances Miller
December 11, 2008
My name is Frances Sullivan Miller and grauduated with Chuck. The other night I was surfing the internet and put in Wichita High School East Class of 1970 and your name came up and I then saw that you were on Flight 11. My heart sank because I remembered you as such a nice person in high school. I remember that we talked alot in one of our classess. I will never ever forget Sept.11th and it has brought it even closer to me after finding out that a person I knew was on one of those planes. Rest in peace Chuck and continue to fly with the angels. Your family will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless America! Frances Denise Sullivan Miller
Doug Abraham
November 4, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Phyllis & Fred Buntin
September 20, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
P Tabbernor
June 6, 2007
In memory....
Kristine
November 2, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Doug Freeman
September 12, 2006
To Chuck's Family & friends;
I want to pass on my condolences on this day; I still remember my jealousy when HE got a chance to fly a T-38, after I taught him to fly!
Sal Alfano
September 11, 2006
To Chuck, family & friends
My heart is heavy today.
It has been 5 years since that ill-fated trip.
We toasted your tragic loss at our 4th squadron table during our 30th reunion.
I still find it hard to believe that you are gone.
I pray that dear friends, classmates, and loved ones will continue to reach out to those whose lives were changed so much by your loss.
I pray that God will carry them, guide them, and lead them again to a full life.
I have visited ground zero. Rest assured, I will not forget.
Chuck, God bless you. Rest in peace.
Your old roommate and Astro buddy
Sal
Chris Brown
October 26, 2004
To the Jones family,
I did not know Chuck but share the bond of the U.S Air Force Academy. I just returned from Colorado Springs for my 25th Class Reunion where I learned of the death of Nina Bell in the WTC. Her AF fighter pilot dad swore me in as a 2Lt. I was crushed to learn of her loss. While browsing this site I happened to click on this name because it is the same as another close friend.
May the memories of Chuck forever bring those who knew and loved him peace and comfort.
A fellow "Zoomie"...Class of 1979
John Sparks
September 12, 2003
When you reflect upon the events of 9-11-2001 stare deeply into this gentle man's face, and never forget. At BAE SYSTEMS "We Protect Those Who Protect Us." Chuck was the epitome of our mission!
Tully Brown
March 3, 2003
Chuck,
Your friends and classmates from USAFA Class of '74 will never forget you. You inspired us all and kept us laughing while sending the message of leadership by example. The deep pain we feel from your loss is thoroughly cleansed only by the fact that we knew such a bright and talented professional. Your memory continues to brighten our lives every day.
Sally Majestic
February 5, 2003
At this time of remembrance of the Columbia crew & others, I would like to recognize the accomplishments of this man who also served his country in the Air Force and in other ways. His skills qualified him to be on a space shuttle flight crew, but he left the program after the tragic Challenger accident in 1986.
May God bless his family & friends.
~ From an Army vet.
Pamela Starline
September 13, 2002
To the Family Chuck Left Behind:
I know some of the family more so than others. It is with Sue, that I cry and try to make some kind of sense from the sheer madness that happened September 11, 8:57am 2001.
Robert & Fabyann McKinley
September 12, 2002
To the Jones Family:
We did not know Mr. Jones, but on September 11, 2002 there was a Patriot Parade in Phoenix, Arizona of over 5,800 motorcycles. The event was awesome and closed down the highway for the afternoon. We rode in honor of Mr. Jones wearing a pink armband bearing his name. We wanted to let you know that he was remembered by us and honored by us on that day. My husband and I are also from Massachusetts (Burlington & Chelsea) and would like to send you the armband that we wore for him.
We thought about him as we rode and hoped that he would've liked the ride in the beautiful sunshine of Phoenix, Arizona.
All our best to you,
God Bless You,
Robert & Fabyann McKinley
June 5, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN..CHARLES E.JONES AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS.GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA..MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..AMEN
Linda B.
April 2, 2002
Chuck,
You were truly an inspiration and I will never forget how wonderful it was to work with you. You led your organization with style, confidence, and always made everyone smile (loved the commander's calls - sometimes serious, but always filled with a few laughs. And, we all especially liked the practical jokes, i.e., sneaking up behind us & tapping us on the shoulder.). I have no doubt you're up there in heaven, leading another mission, with that same great sense of humor and incredible business savvy. I was at Ground Zero this past week with my family & as I touched the memorial wall, I said a prayer for you. You will always be missed, will always be remembered.
Karen Diaco
March 18, 2002
There are only a few people in one's life who have huge impacts on us personally.....I don't mean family members....but those who see us everyday, 9-5 pm, good and bad, with a cold, without a cold, bad hair day & good hair day...bad attitude/good attitude.....and still love us for who we are. Those people make us feel like a "million bucks" even if we're having the worst time in our lives... in my life, and here at Hanscom for 25 + years, I've known that person..... it was Chuck Jones.....he was that man to me; he instinctively knew from the day I met him without saying a word what I was trying to tell him. We had a wonderful connection I'll never forget. We all know how fortunate it is have someone like this cross our paths ....it's great...no, it's the best working experience one could have....Chuck and I had a great time talking, he was the best Colonel I ever knew.....never gave me a hard time, never tossed me or my job aside like I was not important in his organization.....infact, it was just the opposite....he made me believe in myself, my work and what I was doing...he made me a better person ---because he had that extra time to listen to me and talk... just a "wonderful heart/mind/spirit" for everyone to see and be touched by.....that's something we all will never forget.
Truly the world is a lesser place because he's not with us. When I heard he died, I just hoped in my mind that he knew the LORD.....and was saved. I hope I will see him again someday in heaven....I'm sure the LORD is enjoying his company right now. Thanks, Chuck. I'll never forget you.
Regina Bowe
March 15, 2002
Col. Jones, or as my husband secretly called you, Chuck E. J-
I still cannot believe that you are gone. I didn't know you too well, but I do know that you were a great person. Marty admired you so. He always had something nice to say about you, and I can understand why. The one thing that I love to remember about you is that we shared the same birthday, Nov. 4th. Do you remember calling me and singing me "Happy Birthday?" It was so very sweet of you. I'll never forget it! In fact, I always wish you a happy birthday every Nov.4th, and I'll keep doing so... Thank you for serving our counrty, for always being kind to Marty and I, and for letting us have a chance to know you.
Ellie Lathe
March 14, 2002
Dear Col Jones, I am still in awe that you are gone! How well I remember a particular Halloween when we got dressed up in costumes and I went as the "Red Neck Chicken Farmer" with chicken-dolls hanging out of my belt and one flamingo for added touch. How long it took you to figure out who I was still makes me laugh. I remember the wonderful James Bond 007 you did and beat out the other 3-letters for first prize. But you always were a "first prize" person - with that wonderful smile and bright personality. I still miss working with you and am looking forward to seeing you in heaven -for certainly you have to be there, there's no other place for you. My prayers are with your family and you will always be in my heart.
Mary Lou Klonoski
March 14, 2002
My friend, you were one of the "sacrificial angels of 911" who left us all too soon. You have left an unfillable void in many lives and words cannot describe how much you will be missed. We who wear your Mercy Band, do so with much pride & love. Never have I known a man with more integrity, ethics, and intelligence. Personally and professionally, it was truly an honor to have known & served you.
Lisa Mackertich
March 13, 2002
Chuck,
I still can't believe that you are gone. I was going to take you up on your offer to teach me how to scuba dive and now it's too late. I keep thinking that you are just a phone call or an e-mail away.
You were one of my favorite bosses. I can remember all of the fun we all had, while we were working for you at Hanscom Air Force Base. You made work so much fun, by joking with everyone and making them feel so at ease even during stressful times. You had a great sense of humor. No matter what we did...dunking you in a dunk tank, throwing pies in eachother's faces, making you wear antlers and sing holiday songs at the Christmas party..you didn't just tolerate our fun, you encouraged it and enjoyed it. Thank you so much for being such a terrific boss and such a wonderful person.
I just went to the Bugs Bunny Film Festival and when I saw "Chuck Jones" name on the screen, I thought of how we'd tease you about being the Bugs Bunny cartoon director. I didn't miss the fact that you always wore Looney Tunes ties to the Christmas Parties. Well, now heaven has two "Chuck Jones" and I'm sure you're keeping eachother in stitches right now. I know you are missed down here, but I bet we'll all have a blast when we meet up with you later in heaven.
Lots of love to you and yours,
Lisa
Marty Bowe
March 13, 2002
Col Jones,
You taught me more than you can imagine. First you taught me what it meant to be a good officer, then a good boss, and above all a good person. Thanks for your inspiration, I use it every day. Gina misses you too--you were always her favorite!
March 13, 2002
Dear Colonel Jones,
There is so much I could say about you. I'm so happy that I could thank you in person for all the kindness you showed me during Chip's illness. I once told you that you had a big heart,,,,and you said "don't you tell anyone." I'll never forget how much fun we had; dancing in the hall, the "great Moose stories," the Bond video.....so, so much about you.
You are the best, the very best officer and gentle man....I shall never forget your beautiful smile, your humor, and your "big heart."
I shall never forget you....Harriet
Lynne Melaragni
March 13, 2002
Chuck....just saying your name makes me smile with great memories. They all include Havoc of course...that big ole marmaduke Weimaraner. I am luaghing as I type this remembering how you had to pick him up & place him in your truck after dog school because he just wouldn't jump!! Sandy & I would laugh & laugh - your were a great sport. Remember - Smooch & I beat you & Havoc at musical chairs!! You are missed Chuck....hold a spot for me!!
Love you,
Lynne
Sandy Volpe
March 13, 2002
Chuck
You touched our family in so many ways - you were a colleague, a hunting buddy, a fellow Weimaraner owner to my husband Dennis; you and I were in dog school together with our beautiful Weims - will always remember Havoc pulling you down the street to dog school - it was fun and crazy wasn't it (remember musical chairs); and to our daughter Jenna she was the person you entrusted Havoc to when you and Jeannette went away. She'll never forget the talks you had before you went away about taking care of Havoc. She still watches him when Jeannette goes on a trip. You have touched all of us. You are missed!!
Sandy
Colleen Dichard
March 11, 2002
Although I only worked with you for a brief time, I will always remember your boyish smile and sense of humor. And I truly admired your constantly calm demeanor during the most frustrating of times. Your family and all who loved you are in my prayers.
Sheila Werland
March 9, 2002
I did not know Charles, like others though, I wish to offer my prayers and thoughts to those who did. I hope that you are finding peace and healing as time goes by and memories become cherished. God Bless.
Greg Carttar
March 8, 2002
Cousin Chuck:
When we were kids (from opposite sides of the family) you were an obnoxious Air Force brat with a stick up your rear.
You grew into a fine strong man and a superior Air Force Officer with an unshakeable sense of pride and devotion to duty, surviving the travails of the Academy on sheer guts and integrity.
It was only later in life that I came to appreciate who you were and what you had become; and how much I wished I could be like you.
Those of you who knew Chuck as friends have my eternal envy.
Godspeed Cousin.
Teresa Jahn
January 11, 2002
We thank Charles for dedicating part of his life to protect America as a member of the Air Force. Such a dedication to help protect us comes with a heart full of bravery, warmth and love. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of Charles. May his life and love continue on in all who love him. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Kathy Swaringen
December 11, 2001
Today, Dec 11th 2001, 1 mile was walked to honor the life of Charles and all the family, friends andloved ones he left behind. May you find some comfort in knowing that you do not grieve alone.
Charles, you will not be forgotten. May you Rest In Peace.
Gloria Travaille
October 18, 2001
Since we share the same city of Wichita, I just wanted you to know how very, very sorry of the loss of your brother/son.
Truly, I am at a loss for appropriate words but I will never, ever forget those whose lives ended on planes that fateful 9/11/01.
May you all find peace in hearts and minds.
Eileen Jones
October 2, 2001
Although we share the same last name, I was also raised in Wichita, and I'm about the same age, I did not know Charles. The kindness in his face makes me wish I had, however. May peace come to him and all who knew him, and love ease the sorrow.
Barbara Bolin
September 27, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
CHARLES MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Jennifer Knapp
September 26, 2001
It seems like only yesterday my brother and I were learning to craft Christmas ornaments with you in Los Angeles so many years ago. To think that we both came full circle and back to Massachusetts is a feat in itself but to live in neighboring towns is amazing. I only wish I had found out some other way as I would have loved to craft more ornaments...
Thank you for bringing your own brand of happiness into my adolescence. You will forever be missed.
Claire Knox
September 25, 2001
I'm remembering some wonderful times, easily 20 years ago, when you and Jeff Shaver (who I was married to at the time) were at SAMSOE in El Segundo, California. I'll not forget, nor will my now-grown children, Jenny & Jamie Knapp, the fun we all had together. You were taken from us too soon and you will always have a place in our hearts.
Linda Jean
September 21, 2001
Chuck, we came to know you as our SPO director. You brought to us a renewed excitement and commitment for what we were doing. You gave us a personality as well as leadership, not just that of a chain of command. You were there for each and every one of us, providing the guidance and advice both professionally and personnally. Your sense of humor is one that will not go unremembered. We will recall how you approached the challenge of the dunk tank dressed appropriately, full scuba gear! And the Gathering of the Eagles -- What a show! 007 never looked better! You've gone down in ESC history for that one! There are so many incidents that we all will remember, of how that infectous smile made our problems go away! To others of us, you were a friend, one that will always be remembered ... as a hunter, scuba buddy, weekend Cape Codder, or just the dinner parties, but especially for the home made eclairs with chocolate sauce! The memories are many, but not as countless as I can imagine Jeanette has to recall. No doubt she will miss you dearly. Havoc must be asking daily when you are coming home!
Collectively, our faith is strong to help us overcome. We will remember you as you now watch over us.
Jay DiPietro
September 19, 2001
You are not forgotten Chuck, I will always think of you whenever I look at the Oceans that I know you loved so much. Peace be with you.
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