James Jones

James “Peanut” Ray Jones, son of the late Frank Jones and Erline Davis, was born on March 6, 1954, in Claremore, Oklahoma, and departed this life on November 23, 2025, at his home in Mansfield, Missouri, at the age of 71 years, 8 months, and 17 days.

Peanut was raised on a farm just outside of Mansfield, affectionately known as the Holler, near the Douglas County line. At the young age of 16, he began working on the pipeline, proudly continuing the family legacy his father had started before him. That tradition carried on through his sons, Frank and Kevin, who later worked beside their dad on several jobs throughout his career.

James was united in marriage to Judy Daniel, and to this union three children were born: Frank, Kevin, and Michelle. Though life took them in different directions and they later divorced, they remained close friends. James later married Sharon Rice, with whom he shared several years of companionship until her passing.

Peanut loved nothing more than spending time with his family. Whether he was giving his grandkids a hard time or enjoying a cold beverage surrounded by the family and friends he cherished, he found joy in simply being with the people he loved.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Jones and Erline Davis; his wife, Sharon Jones; his first wife, Judy Jones; three brothers, Andrew Jones, Mike Jones, and Kenneth Jones; two sisters, Cindy Shelton and Grace Stover; two brothers-in-law, Rex Hastings and Jim Stover; and two sisters-in-law, Lucy Jones and Sherry Jones.

He is survived by his children: Frank Jones and wife, Michelle; Kevin Jones and wife, Kendra; and Michelle Jones, all of Mansfield, Missouri. He is also survived by two sisters, Lisha Wallace and husband, Bob, and Valarie Hastings; one brother, Giles Jones; one brother-in-law, Mike Shelton; close relation Ruth Wallace and husband, Don, & Russell & Jim Wallace & families; grandchildren Deleah (Mario), McKenna, Evan, Josh (Breanna), Autumn (Dennis), Sierra, Noah, Chase, and Carly, 5 great-grandchildren, Landon, Layton, Sira, Brynlee, and Cohen, and a host of many nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends that he considered family.

Peanut was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Memorial contributions can be made to the family by dropping off in person to Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home Mansfield or by mail to: 315 N. Main St. Mountain Grove, Missouri, 65711.