Cornelius Jarode "Duke" Jones

Cornelius Jarode Jones, affectionately known as Duke, passed away on July 4, 2024, at the age of 24. He was born to Lawrence Jones Jr. and Gertha Cleveland on September 25, 1999, in Temple, TX. He recently resided in Killeen, TX.
Cornelius grew up in a loving and nurturing household with his mother Gertha and stepfather Donnell Hawkins. Donnell never referred to Duke as his stepson, he was always simply his son. From the age of 3, Cornelius also shared a strong and loving bond with his bonus mother Valeta. Despite her brief marriage to his father, the connection between Cornelius and Valeta remained steadfast until his passing. Duke was surrounded by biological and non-biological parents, who loved him without measure, and he was exceptional at making sure they felt his love as well.
To know Cornelius was to love him as a person. Those who knew him loved and cherished him deeply. He had a heart full of love and a captivating personality that left a lasting impression on those around him. One of his greatest pleasures in life was being a devoted and loving father to his one and only son, Tahj. Cornelius loved nothing more than spending time with Tahj and was dedicated to providing him and Tahj's mother Tamia, who is also Duke's significant other, with a secure, loving and nurturing environment. He found immense satisfaction in ensuring the well-being and security of all his loved ones, especially Tahj and Tamia. He cherished capturing every moment of his life, specifically those spent with his son Tahj, using his video recorder or camera.
Duke attended Norview High School in Norfolk, VA, and later graduated from Bellaire High School in Houston, TX. From a young age, he had a passion for working with his hands. After high school, he pursued certification in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration at Houston Community College, establishing himself as an HVAC Technician and also remodeling homes. He was skilled in his craft and took pride in his work and achievements.
Cornelius will be remembered for many things, most of all his charismatic personality, unwavering love and devotion to his family and friends.
Cornelius leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his father, Lawrence Jones Jr, his mother and stepfather, Gertha and Donnell of Norfolk, Virginia, his bonus mom Valeta Clark of Richmond, Texas, his love and mother of his son, Tamia Lavalais of Killeen, Texas, and his son, Tahj Lavalais-Jones. He also leaves behind four brothers: Michael Phifer Jr. of Norfolk, Virginia, Trae Jones and Jakobi Nalls both of Richmond, Texas, and Justin Lawrence of Virginia Beach, Virginia; and three sisters: Raevyn Jones of Houston, Texas, Talanda Cleveland of Jacksonville, Florida, and Trekia Brevard of Portsmouth, Virginia. Cornelius was also a beloved grandson of William Stewart Jr. and Armer Jean Stewart of Temple, Texas. Additionally, he is survived by numerous aunties, uncles, and cousins, who were more like siblings, and friends. Among those greeting him in heaven are his Uncle Vance and cousin Chauntee
Duke's loving spirit and kind heart will forever be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Tahj's college fund in honor of Cornelius's dedication to his son's future.