Dr. Richard L. Jones

FAYETTEVILLE - Dr. Richard Henry Lee Jones passed away Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in Fayetteville. Son of the late Addie Ogburn Jones and William Jones, Richard was born Dec. 9, 1923, in Summerfield. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from N.C. A&T University, a Master's Degree from Northwestern University and a doctoral degree from Boston University. Known professionally and affectionately as "Dr. Jones," he had a personal passion for music that fused perfectly with his professional calling as a music teacher, band leader and musician. He was an outstanding director of bands, and thoroughly enjoyed directing and developing marching band talent. He did so with deep commitment. For years he attended the Midwestern band clinic held annually in Chicago. He also played in the orchestra at Snyder Memorial Baptist Church in Fayetteville, bragging often that he missed only one performance in 30 years of the Singing Christmas Tree. Richard served in the Navy during World War II. He and 43 other students were recruited to serve as the first African-Americans in the Navy in a ranking other than cook or steward. In addition to music, he enjoyed traveling and maintained a consistent workout regimen up until his death. Richard is survived by his wife, Leveda; his four children, Denise Jones, Myron Jones (Lynda), Melanie Jones and Wylie Jones (Timisha); his stepdaughter, Odette Johnson-Ray; eight grandchildren; and a host of friends including his B-1 Navy bandmates Calvin Morrow and Simeon Holloway, a friend of more than 70 years. Richard was predeceased by his eldest son, Richard Jones Jr. His family and friends will miss his positive spirit, his incredible zest for life and his wonderful presence in our daily lives. A wake will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. today, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013, at Wiseman Mortuary in Fayetteville. Funeral services will be held at noon Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, in College Heights Presbyterian Church, 1809 Seabrook Road, Fayetteville.