Arzella Jones

Today we gather to honor and remember the life of Arzella Jones—a woman whose presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her.

Mom was born on April 14, 1952, to Aaron and Beryle Carter Moore. She passed peacefully from this life on January 28th. 

She was the youngest of four children, with siblings Robert Moore, Helen Davidson, and Curtis Moore. Growing up, it was often said she was her daddy’s favorite—and anyone who knew her could understand why. She had a spark, a warmth and a spirit that drew people in.

She grew up in Ardmore, Oklahoma, where she built the foundation of a life rooted in family, friendship, and hard work. She graduated from Ardmore High School in 1970 and soon after began working at Nance’s Home Furnishing, where she showed the same dedication and reliability that defined her throughout her life.

Mom met the love of her life, Allen Leroy Jones Jr., and together they built a beautiful life. Their marriage was one of partnership, love, and shared devotion to family. They were blessed with two children, Stefani Laine and Jesse Allen, who were the pride of her life. Allen preceded her in death, and today we take comfort in knowing they are reunited once again. 

At their wedding a red bird was seen in the window of the church. She always believed that red birds were loved ones watching over us thus began her collection and love for red birds. If you have ever visited her house - you know. 

After dad’s death, mom returned to the work force working at Ardmore City Schools as a “cafeteria lady”. She found joy in seeing her school kids every day. She made many friends with fellow coworkers as well. She retired from the school system and loved the fact that every day was now a weekend day!

Mom was first and foremost a family woman. She is survived by her children Stefani and Jesse, her daughter-in-law Athena. Growing up mom was at every school activity and always supporting us in everything we did, from home room mom to PTA functions, sports and band trips. She loved to brag that she got to drive the “Von Erich’s” around to the schools when they once visited Ardmore. Laughing about their size in her station wagon!

Her legacy will continue through her grandchildren—Casey Jones and Luke Fairmaner, Courtney Baxter and Mike, and Billy Jones—and her great-grandchildren Evan Fairmaner, Karmyn Baxter, Sophia Baxter, and Jacob Fairmaner. She absolutely loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, finding joy in their laughter, milestones, and everyday moments. Some of her Favorite grand kid activities were $ days as she called them. Taking the kids to multiple $ stores to “mosy” around. And many park picnic trips!

Beyond family, mom cherished her friendships deeply. She loved being around people, sharing stories, laughter, and time together. She had a playful side too—she enjoyed visiting casinos and never missed a chance to have a little fun. And many here will remember her as an avid “amateur” bowler, proudly bowling in several leagues around Ardmore, where she found camaraderie, competition, and joy.

Mom was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Allen, but the love she gave remains very much alive. Her life was one of connection—connection to family and friends. She showed us the importance of showing up, loving deeply, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.

Though our hearts are heavy today, we are grateful for the years we had with her, for the memories she leaves behind, and for the legacy of love that will continue through generations. Mom will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the Centennial Chapel of Harvey-Douglas Funeral Home with Reverend Bruce Kirby officiating.  Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery with the assistance of Bill Jones, Luke Fairmaner, Evan Fairmaner, Johnny Taylor, Corey Haynes and Rick Hawes serving as pallbearers.  Honorary bearers will be Curtis Moore, Robert Moore, Jesse Jones, Billy Jones and Jacob Fairmaner.

A time of visitation and support for the family will be held Sunday, February 1, 2026 at the funeral home from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Services are entrusted to Harvey-Douglas Funeral Home and Crematory where condolences for the family may be left online at www.hdouglas.funeralhome.com.