Doris Jeanette Cameron Jones

Doris Jeanette Cameron Jones was born on January 19, 1934, in Southern Pines, North Carolina, the beloved first child of Lindsay and Ruth Cameron (nee Bowman). A year later, the family welcomed a second daughter, Gloria Joyce, and in 1940, a third daughter, Eleanor Madge, completing the trio of Cameron girls.
During Doris's early childhood, the family joined the Great Migration northward, settling in East Orange, New Jersey, where they built a loving and faith-filled home. Doris attended East Orange Public Schools and graduated from East Orange High School.
Gifted with both intellect and artistry, Doris continued her education at Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. While there, she became a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, beginning a lifelong commitment to service, sisterhood, and leadership.
In 1960, Doris married Charles Jones, and together they made their home in Newark, New Jersey. Their union was blessed with two children, Crystal and Charles. When the union did not survive, followed by Charles (senior) passing away unexpectedly, Doris faced the challenge of single parenthood with extraordinary strength, grace, and devotion. She raised her children with unwavering love and faith-instilling in them the values of perseverance, compassion, and excellence that defined her own life.
Doris began her distinguished career as an elementary school teacher in the Newark School District. After the family relocated to Scotch Plains, she joined the Scotch Plains–Fanwood School District, where she inspired generations of students over more than four decades of teaching. Known for her patience, creativity, and dedication, she nurtured not only her students' minds but also their confidence and curiosity.
Her commitment to education extended far beyond the classroom. Upon retirement, Doris continued to share her musical gifts by offering private piano and voice lessons to young people in her community. Her students fondly recall her warmth, encouragement, and high standards, and she took great joy in hosting annual recitals both in her home and at her beloved church.
A devoted and lifelong member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Doris helped to establish the Theta Phi Omega Chapter in Plainfield, New Jersey, proudly serving as charter member and chapter president from 1985 to 1986.
Doris was also deeply engaged in her community. In her early years in Scotch Plains, she was an active member of the Black Coalition of Scotch Plains and Fanwood, and years later, was a member of the Silver Foxes, a modeling troupe for mature women that celebrated style and confidence at every age. Doris was also a 20-year member of the Essex Chorale, a distinguished adult choir that performed Handel's Messiah annually throughout Essex County, New Jersey. Through these endeavors, Doris expressed her love for culture, community, and the performing arts-bringing beauty, harmony, and joy to those around her.
A woman of steadfast faith, Doris was a devoted member of St. John's Baptist Church in Scotch Plains, where she served faithfully as a deacon and participated in many church ministries until her health no longer allowed. Her faith was her anchor and her guide-quiet yet powerful, shaping the way she lived and loved.
Doris will be remembered for her loving spirit, generosity, grace, and strength. She embodied dignity and humility, leaving a legacy of service, education, faith, and music that continues to inspire all who knew her.
She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Crystal Mullins (Donald); sisters Gloria Dawkins and Eleanor Lyle; granddaughters Natalie and Noelle Mullins; and nephew Steven Dawkins. Doris was predeceased by son Charles Jones, niece Eleanor Freeman, and nephew Sultan Muhammed. She is also lovingly remembered by her grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family, and a host of dear friends whose lives were enriched by her presence.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions to Keys 2 Success (Newark, NJ) in loving memory of Doris J. Jones. Keys 2 Success provides free, daily piano lessons to children in Newark's underserved communities - nurturing musical talent and opportunity in a community where she once worked and served.
To make a donation, please visit www.keysnewark.com or scan the QR code (included on the Tribute Wall) and select "Donate Now", where you may note your gift "In Memorial of Doris J. Jones."
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