George Jones

George (Chucky) Jones, an incredibly talented, intelligent and witty individual, passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025. He was born October 28, 1949. He lived his early years in Pompton Lakes, NJ, attending public schools and graduating in 1968 from Pompton Lakes High School.
George exhibited his creative talents from an early age, drawing, dancing, singing, painting, and skating. Around the age of eight, he saw ballet on TV and immediately tried to get up on his toes, en pointe. He followed this passion with several years of ballet lessons. He also demonstrated an interest and talent with hairdressing. Our mother bought him a beautician's head to practice on and he practiced so much that all of the hair fell out. Before long, the ladies of the neighborhood began routinely stopping by for Chuck to do their hair.
After high school he moved to New York City to pursue a career as a beautician. He spent the majority of his working career at Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon and Spa on Fifth Avenue, rising through the ranks to become their Bridal Director. His work was showcased in Bridal magazines and he won numerous awards. During this time, he acquired friendships with many political and film celebrities, such as Elizabeth Taylor, with whom he worked to raise funds for AMFAR (American Foundation for AIDS Research).
In addition to his artistic passions and dedication to HIV/AIDs focused foundations, Chuck loved to have fun. Later in life, he would regale us for hours with stories about his famous friends and the places he went. He loved to dance, and frequented many of the well-known NY Clubs like 'Studio 54.' He was even once crowned Miss Fire Island and competed in numerous competitions. Throughout this period, he trained as a high tenor opera singer, singing in various small venues and working with many famous singers in a practice capacity. He also played piano, writing composition and melodies.
Chuck is survived by his brother Robert Jones, Sister-in-law Betty Jones, nieces, Amanda Jones-Gransky and husband Steven Gransky, and Jessica Jones and husband Andrew Hsieh, his favorite grand niece and nephew, Madison and Nate Gransky as well as his niece, Veronica Lauren Grubbs and nephew, Jay Justin Grubbs. He also leaves behind a number of very dear and cherished friends, especially Cyndi Spicer who has been a longtime friend and has been with Chuck throughout many adventures.
Chuck was predeceased by his parents Gordon and Veronica Jones and his sister Susan Jones (Grubbs).
Chucky was an individual who celebrated beauty in all of its forms throughout his life. He brought joy wherever he went and filled the room with his vibrant personality and captivating stories. He will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him.
A celebration of his life will be held privately at a future date.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840. For those wishing to leave online condolences for the family, please visit, www.cochranfuneral.com