Photo courtesy of Byles Memorial Home - New London
New London, Connecticut
Jan 3, 1963 – Nov 9, 2019 (Age 56)
Samuel James Jones Jr. 56 of New London died November 9, 2019 at Windham Community Memorial Hospital. Sam was born January 3, 1963 in New London to Samuel J. Jones Sr. and Arlene Lee Jones.
Sam was a 1981 graduate and proud athlete of New London High School. He was employed at the City of New London public works department until an injury forced him into early retirement.
Sam faced many health issues over the past two decades and had seemed to overcome them all. Through all his health issues, the one thing other than his kids and grandkids that kept him going was coaching the community. The passion he had to mentor, help, guide, and coach all the players will be deeply missed. He had passion in all he did, in all his players, in all his life. Sam was not perfect, never claimed to be. However, he always did feel as if he was the hottest catch in any room.
He was most famous for his big laugh that could fill any room. Sam may have come off as a tough guy, but really had a heart of gold, lifting up any room he entered. Sam still had that genuine personal connection with people which is rare in these social media days. Sam was a humble man who simply loved his family and community.
Sam is survived by his mother Arlene Lee Jones, daughter Sarah (Wesley) Cornish, son Samuel J. Jones III, daughter Tricia Jones and. 9 grandchildren and one on the way.
Sam was predeceased by sister Rhonda Jones and father Samuel J. Jones Sr.
Sam would want the people he cared about to know he passed right after his team won, laughing, in no pain, surrounded by his friends, with a lip full of dip, and more than a dollar in his pocket. Sam will be forever missed and his legacy will live on through the Whaler community
Visitation will be held Saturday November 30, 2019 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm with a Celebration of Life commencing at 6:00pm at Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington Street, New London.
Read MoreSammy J, we all miss and love you my friend. May you be in a better place watching over us all. This world has lost a son, father, uncle, friend and most of all great person. Thanks for all the great memories. My sincere condolences to the family.
Stanley Harris
December 01, 2019 | Matthews, NC | Friend
We will miss you our dear classmate. I remember your greatness on the field, the courts and through the hallways of New London Jr. High and High School. Thanks for sharing your gifts and talents over the years. May you take your Heavenly Rest In Peace. God Bless your family as they mourn your passing.
Jarma Wrighten
December 01, 2019 | Woodbridge, VA
Sammy Jr. and Family,
My prayers are with you and your family during this tragic time. I'm so blessed to have gotten to know 'Big Sam' during my middle school years; his kindness and large than life personality mixed with his huge heart will be his everlasting legacy.
Mark Battista
November 29, 2019 | Waterford, CT
Rest In Peace
Eileen Monroe
November 29, 2019 | Charlotte, NC
Arlene & Family... my heart hurts for you all. There are no words except that I will miss him dearly.
Cara Walz-Burton
November 26, 2019 | Norwich, CT | Friend
Arlene & Family So sorry to hear of Sams passing.May GOD comfort you during this difficult time,and may Sam Forever R.I.P.
Lori & Dan Allen
November 25, 2019 | Groton, CT
June 6, 1981 The Day Sports section
Donna Bienkowski Smith
November 25, 2019
Arlene we are deeply sorry for the passing of Sam. You will be in our hearts and prayers.
Donna Peirson
November 24, 2019 | Groton, CT | Friend
Dear Arlene, We will always remember Sam. I can still see the little blond haired little leaguer/ He was a pleasure to watch and always had a smile on his face. Now we say goodbye to his physical form and relate to his soul as he still lives on in God's mind and our hearts. Peace be with you.
Helen and Al Siciliano
November 24, 2019 | New London, CT