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Rolland Jones Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Rolland Jones
Cheryl Allen
June 29, 2008
Sally, Robbie and Scott,
I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Bob in the Madison District in the capacity as the Teachers' Association President. Dr. Bob and I worked closely from 2001 until he left. We shared many a laugh and at the funeral when Robbie said that his dad would say all those people came to just to get off work early, was exactly something Dr. Bob would have said. I respected Dr. Bob for his commitment to students and loved going to those board meetings right after school started to see Dr. Bob on a bus sweating like all the other kids in his "new school clothes." What a great man! He loved his family, his work, and the people whom he called his friends! I had breakfast with Dr. Bob over Spring Break... we parted by saying we would get together over the summer... we did, just a little early, and not the way either one of us had envisioned. Dr. Bob will be missed, not only as the dad, the husband, and the educator, but as one of the nicest men all of us who knew him, will ever know.
I am so sorry for your loss . May your grief become less, but your memories never fade...
Cheryl Allen
Yvonne Watterson
June 16, 2008
I worked at Madison Meadows when Bob was Superintendent, and about three years ago, our paths crossed again when he came to Balsz District, just across the street from GateWay Community College, where I'm the principal of the Early College High School. Bob gladly served on my Advisory Council and worked hard to promote the early college initiative as one that was critical to the success of underserved bright kids in his district.
It is poignant and ironic that on the day Bob died, PRI BBC The World aired an interview Bob and I gave regarding the impact of Arizona's immigration legislation on children. Just today, I found out that a kind stranger in Iowa has established a $10,000 endowment to ensure that the undocumented kids of immigrants can continue to participate in my program, kids who came to me by way of Balsz school district. It is fitting that this endowment will be the Dr. Robert Jones Memorial Fund - a fitting tribute to a gracious man who truly cared about kids and about education.
Suzanne Mahon
June 9, 2008
Sally - This is Suzanne Mahon, former principal of Madison Meadows. I was just made aware of Bob's death today. I am so saddened by his unexpected and untimely death. I will be lifting you and your sons up in prayer for you to receive comfort as you experience this difficult time. Bob's life was truly special. He was absolutely, without a doubt, the best superiintendent I ever had. We had so many laughs together when he came to Meadows. In fact, one year he made is 1000th school visit to Meadows. I was so honored he let us share that with him. I will never forget his influence on my life. He was the epitome of a true educator.
Very sincerely,
Suzanne Mahon
Pamela Metcalf
June 8, 2008
Sally, Robbie, and Scott,
My heart cried when I heard of Bob's passing. I taught in the Madison District for 9 years. During that time, I found Bob to be very personable with Christ-like characteristics. He was there for our native american committee when we were dealing with a bitter parent in which he helped us to be successful in a legal matter. We blessed him with a pendleton blanket at our annual pow wow. Bob was so appreciative and so sincere. I grieve for selfish reasons, but I know he is in a better place praising God in the heavenly places!
Mrs. Pam Metcalf (Cooper)
Carol Thompson
June 8, 2008
We are happy that we had the opportunity to meet Bob & Sally while Keegan & Scott played club soccer together. We saw them again when Scott & Keegan attended CLU. Bob will be missed and has left a lasting impression in the community.
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers,
Carol and Jim Thompson
Jim & Jodi Young
June 8, 2008
Sally, Robbie & Scott -
We were so sorry to hear about Bob's passing. We are so grateful that we got to know you guys over the last four years - Scottie was probably one of the first guys Greg met at CLU, and became a fast and lifelong friend. We enjoyed seeing you every time we were able to get out to LA for a CLU soccer match. Thank you and Bob so much for helping us parent Greg from afar. We were very envious of your ability to get to nearly every CLU match. We will never forget our fun times in the CA sunshine with you guys on the sidelines. You have been in our prayers constantly, and will continue to be.
Via con Dios -
Mary Ann Sutcliffe
June 7, 2008
I had the privilege of teaching with Bob at Indian Bend in his early days. He was one of the kindest, funniest educators I have ever met!
I remember him dancing with other teachers in the Faculty Lounge and dancing at my wedding, 25 years ago! I know his family, wife and sons have many wonderful memories of this extraordinary man. Hopefully this will ease the loss. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Mary Ann (Porro) Sutcliffe
Stephanie Levandowsk-Massey
June 6, 2008
To The Jones Family,
Mr. Jones (as he will always be known to me) was the the assistant principal at Mirage Elementary a million years ago when I was a student there. He was truely a wonderful leader, he made an impression where ever he went, it speaks volumes of his character and love for students that I remember him from my days at Mirage in the late 70's early 80's.
As you already know he is a wonderful person and his inspriation will live on in the lives of the students that he has touched over the years.
God Bless.
Deter Guglielmo
June 6, 2008
Sally,
I hope you and the boys can keep all the wonderful memories of Bob close to help through the coming days. My prayers are with you.
Love,
Deter
Jennifer Deckwa
June 6, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Jones family. I am so very sorry for your loss.
I was a teacher for the Madison School District and have very fond memories of "Mr. Jones". When he visited my classroom each year, he would make it a point to peek at the pictures on my desk and ask about my family and children.
He will be missed.
Carolyn Warner
June 6, 2008
To the Jones family: What a loss. I know the grief and loneliness will pass and all the joyful memories of what a wonderful servant and compassionate educator he was will supplant the sorrow.
It was once said “The greatest use of life is to spend it on something that will outlast it". Bob Jones did just that.
Carolyn Warner
Danell and Gene Bleymaier
June 6, 2008
Our heartfelt condolences to you, Sally, and Robbie and Scott. We treasure the memories of Bob, the proud dad, at the BSU games. We grieve the loss of such a wonderful husband and father....you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Patti Blake
June 5, 2008
To the family of Bob Jones,
I was deeply saddened to open the paper this morning and read of Bob's passing. I had the privilege to work with Bob in Deer Valley for many years. I so fondly remember when he was principal at Mirage and there was a "pool" regarding the birthdate of your oldest....and I do remember him being born on Super Bowl Sunday! What great memories those are! I continued to work closely with Bob at the District Office in the Staff Development Office...what an inspiration he was! His vision for education, his enthusiasm for life and his true dedication to his family were ALWAYS evident in his daily life. My thoughts and prayers go to your entire family as you deal with your loss. May God hold your gently and warm you with the wonderful he left you. God Bless you all!
Fondly,
Patti Blake
Michelle Steinberg
June 5, 2008
I was a parent in Deer Valley during Bob's tenure there. I don't think I have ever been as impressed with an educator as I was with Bob. The first time I met him, he was sitting amongst the first graders at lunch at Sunrise Elementary chatting and laughing with the kids. He was committed and dedicated to his work and it showed every day.
He will be missed.
Tracy Stearns
June 4, 2008
I did not know Bob but it's easy to see what a truly exceptional guy he must have been, from winning Sally's heart and raising a wonderful family to the love he obviously had for his work and the students of the Phoenix area.
My love and prayers go out to you and your boys Sally.
Laurel Karpman
June 4, 2008
When we lose a man who is as good, genuine, and endearing as Bob Jones, news travels across the country. I now live in Massachusetts but was a member of the Madison Board that hired Bob as superintendent. We were very lucky that he chose us. His dedication and exhuberance filled the board room and the district. Every teacher and every classroom felt his presence. Bob cared deeply about his work and shared his love of family with us. Sally, Robby and Scott, please accept my most sincere condolences.
What a great loss for all of us.
Kay & Alan Coleman
June 4, 2008
In working as Bob's assistant for over 12 years I saw him go through the best of times and the worst of times (including the best school boards and the worst!) Regardless, he always led with integrity, humor, caring and put students at the center of every decision. All of us who knew Bob were honored by his being and so saddened by his passing. Sally, Robby and Scotty our prayers and thoughts are with you.
June 4, 2008
Sally,
We are deeply saddened by your loss and our condolences to you and your family.
Respectfully,
Brenda Jones
ADP TotalSource
Nick & Jennie Portonova
June 3, 2008
Sally & family:
We worked with Bob at Deer Valley years ago. We have very fond memories of traveling in our motor home to the annual U of A vs. ASU football game. Over 20 years have past since that trip and we still remember the fun we had that day. We were rivals but Bob didn't care. Even getting stuck in heavy traffic on the way to the game was okay because Bob's fun loving spirit made that fun, too. It was evident at his Memorial Service that he has touched the lives of many. We are honored to have known him. May God bless and watch over all of you as you struggle through this difficult time.
Keith Lee
June 3, 2008
I worked with Bob in the Deer Valley School District. I remember doing a lot of work in staff development for him. He was dedicated in everything he did. I knew him when he was sick back then, but he never let that stop him. He continued with the same zest and ferver no matter what obstacles stood in his way...and he always enjoyed a good story and a good laugh. Truly one of the best men and most committed educators I have ever met.
Eileen Johansen
June 3, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the family. I worked with Dr. Jones at Madison Elementary. He was the "super" of Superintendents. I had the highest regard for him. His shoes will certainly be hard to fill.
Sandy & Jeff Shapiro
June 3, 2008
Sally & Family,
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. We will miss a longtime friend with a great smile for everyone.
Phyllis Urban
June 3, 2008
I work at the Madison School District and knew Dr. Jones for 10 years. It was a sad day when he left our district for another adventure. It is even a sadder day knowing he won't have any more. I send your family my thoughts and prayers in your loss of a great man.
Edgar Sims
June 3, 2008
Bob and I worked together for the first 10 years or so of his administrative career. He was devoted to his family and quality education of children. We shared many good times and implemented many successful programs from which many students, teachers, and administrators benefited greatly. His influence and inspiration will be missed. Above all, the greatest legacy is the family he leaves, Scott, Robbie and Sally.
Ed and Beth Sims
cecelia moody
June 3, 2008
To the family of Dr. Jones~
My heart and prayers are with you and your family. I work for Madison Nutrition services and each time Dr. Jones came through our campus he made it a point to come in and say hello (also to find cookies) we will miss him.
Karen & Phil Myers
June 3, 2008
Sally
Although we never saw much of each other growing up, we still were bonded within the Brooks family circle. Although I only meant Bob at the family reunion, I thoroughly enjoyed the few days we had in Estes Park. I'm so sorry to hear of his sudden passing and we want to express our sympathy and prayers to you and the boys.
Ralph Schneider
June 3, 2008
Dear Sally and family,
Bob hired me at Madison Meadows in 2004 and then left. He hired me in the Balsz District and I told him I'd be the Orangedale Principal only if he stayed. He did.
I loved Bob for the man he was. When he was sick and resigning his position he told me about his pastor 20 years ago. Bob asked this pastor, "Why me?" and his pastor's reply was "Why not you, Bob?". I told him that every day is a blessing. He said to me that he has lived each day since that time as though it was his last. I'm so sorry his life has come to an end. I will miss him tremendously.
He showed God's love through his action and attentiveness to other's needs.
He was so proud of his boys. I was always touched by his genuine concern for their welfare.
Whenever he said your name, Sally, it was as if he was speaking about his dearest friend and companion.
Thank you for sharing him with me.
Ralph Schneider
Orangedale Principal
Debra Rickey
June 2, 2008
Dear Sally,
My heartfelt sympathy for the loss of the husband and father that you have described over the years as dedicated and committed to his family and community. Your tribute to him was wonderfully written although probably only scratches the surface. All my love and peace to you and your boys.
June 2, 2008
We will miss you Mr Cheeto man
A Balsz 4th grade student
Rick and Barbara Avellone
June 2, 2008
We are so saddened by the loss of such a wonderful man. Dr. Jones was so supportive of the Greater Orangedale Neighborhood Association. He always put others before himself. He was truly a "gentleman's gentleman". We will miss him greatly-his legacy will live on through his family and through all the lives he touched. May his memory be eternal.
Pam Giardina
June 2, 2008
Dear Sally
I was so saddened to hear of your loss. I pray that God's peace and comfort will be yours during this season of your life. Please know that all your friends at Christian Family Care Agency will be praying for you and your family.
Maria Guerrero
June 2, 2008
To the family of Dr. Jones,
I was an employee in the Madison District most of the years that Dr.Jones was the Superintendent.......I respected this man and proudly would address him as Dr. Jones even though we are close in age.....and when we had a fire in our home in 2003 after I had left the district..and a collection was taken up for our family he also contributed...my prayers are with all of you during this sad time....may Dr. Jones rest in peace
Jeff Smith
June 2, 2008
Bob was a good friend and a mentor to me. I will always remember his excellent sense of humor and his empathy for others. We will all miss him and I will aspire to be the kind of husband, father and administrator he would be proud of.
Gail Caretto
June 2, 2008
I am so sad to hear that Bob has passed. I came to the Madison District in 1999 and into the Rose Lane Library. I always felt Bob knew me and my family. He would ask about my husband and children. If I had something going on in the library, he would participate in whatever way he could. For our Dr. Seuss Day, he came in to do his rendition of "Green Eggs & Ham" with our school secretary. The children, and our whole staff loved and looked forward to the performance. What a great sense of humor. He was always here for his employees. I miss him still. What a gift to us all.
God bless you and give you peace,
Vivian (Amy) Nelson Melle
June 2, 2008
I met Bob once, but as an alumni of Orangedale and community member I followed his work as superintendent. What an amazing person who stood by his convictions through thick and thin. I hope we all learn from his pride and strength. I am blessed to have known him even for a short while. My heart and prayers go out to his family and friends. This world has lost a very special, funny and beautifully compassionate person.
Debbie Strong
June 2, 2008
Although I never met Bob, I have a glimpse of this wonderful man through the stories and descriptions his sister Carol gave me. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and friends. Your lives are richer because of Bob, and I hope you will cling to each other during this difficult time of mourning. God Bless You All!
Pam Hansen
June 2, 2008
Sally and Scotty,
We are sorry for this GREAT loss and yet blessed to have known and enjoyed Bob's company at the CLU track meets. Bob left a positive word for everyone that came around him! Our family shares the love and prayers to your family. I know Bob was VERY PROUD of his sons! God Bless. The Hansen Family, Kyle, Tyler, Pam and Rick.
Josh Cohen
June 2, 2008
My father has never held anyone in higher regard than Bob Jones and after working closely with Bob for the last year, I know why. He was a wonderful family man, loved his schools, his staff and most importantly, his students. Iv'e never met anyone as sincere as Bob, that carried themselves with the integrity of Bob, and was always looking at the positive no matter how troublesome the situation. I am proud to say that he has been a family friend for over 40 years. God Bless Sally, Robby, and Scott.
Joyce & Joe Estes
June 1, 2008
Bob - We enjoyed getting to know you at the CLU soccer games! Go Kingsmen! You are among the best! Thoughts and prayers to Sally, Robbie and Scott. Much Love!
Ron Gruwell
June 1, 2008
I will always remember Bob as one of the most innovative educators I have ever worked with. Bob hired me from north Dakota to work in Deer Valley schools. I will always cherish my time working with him. God Bless
JoAnne Hilde
June 1, 2008
My deepest sympathies to Bob's family. Bob truly represented the best in leadership for children and educators. I will always remember his quick smile, embracing language and his commitment to always hold true to the highest ideals of honor and integrity. So many will miss him.
John Hughes
June 1, 2008
Bob, your ability to make someone feel they are your lifelong friend will last me a lifetime. May the warmth and joy you projected every day for so many years, blanket your family always.
Steve Cohen
June 1, 2008
On behalf of the entire Cohen family
My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Jones family.Wife Sally, sons Robbie and Scottie, Bob's parents,Lois and Bob, sisters Carol and Cherl and brother Steve in addition to all the other family relatives
I am very proud to say that have been a friend of Bob's for over 40years. Bob's committment to his family, friend's and the improvement of others through his work are unparreled. I have never met anyone that had more Integrity and committment as Bob.His work ethic was unmatched.
I will miss Bob's smile, humor, stories and all great times we have shared over the years.
I want to thank Sally for your last trip to Tahoe and the great time we had skiing down the slopes just a couple of months ago.
I have alot of memories with Bob, to many to list here, but will always have Bob in my thoughts and prayers.
Bob, you have been the best a friend could be and we will miss you immensely. As the old phrase goes "you are simply the best"
Barbara Dalicandro-Daggett
June 1, 2008
I am and always will be proud to be "One of Bob's Kids." Thank you, Bob, for "stretching" me as an administrator more than I ever would myself.
John Phillips
June 1, 2008
Even though we lived 1200 miles apart for the past 35 years, the 2 years we were roommates bonded us in friendship which has endured over the miles and the years. Memories which will I will carry forever include:
- California road trip in the Nova (plastic seat covers and all)
-'Tuna fishing' from Wildcat stadium sidelines
- Your wedding
- My wedding
- Arizona Homecoming
- Golf (numerous locations)
- Watching Robbie and Scotty play football with you and Sally
Kay and I express our deepest condolances to Sally, Robbie, and Scott. We must live in the strength of our knowledge that those in heaven are enjoying the great humor that Bob has shared with all of us over the years.
Thank you for being a great friend and a "True Gentleman" in this life. I look forward to seeing you in the next life.
Phi Alpha
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