Jewel Lee Jones Eckles

Joy, great joy filled the home of James Jones, Sr. and Dealia Denmark Jones on November 29, 1943, as they welcomed their precious baby girl, Jewel Lee, into the family…the twelfth of twelve children.

Jewel was raised in a Christian home. Her mother taught her at an early age about the Triune God. As a result, Jewel and her siblings accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Jewel was active in ACE League, Sunday School, Youth Choir, Christmas and Easter productions. The early training developed into service to others as she grew stronger in her spiritual walk. She was quick to lend a helping hand to those in need and had a passionate heart for children. Her service included tutoring children in her home and providing them with books to have in their homes. Jewels service to the church was expansive. She sang in the choir, served as a Stewardess, taught Vacation Bible School classes, where she also showed off her majorette skills (marching and baton twirling), served as Women's Day Chairman, and produced awesome Black History productions.

Jewel was smitten by Booker T. Eckles and said "yes" to the question. To this union, three adorable children were born. She loved talking about her children and grandchildren. Their accomplishments were special to her. Additionally, she enjoyed cheering for her grandchildren as they competed in sports events.

After graduating from Lincoln Park Academy with the class of 1962, she attended and graduated from Benedict College (Columbia, South Carolina). She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. She began her teaching career in Saint Lucie County. She also taught in Indian River County. She was a highly respected teacher. Parents requested her to be their child's teacher. She made learning fun and always had an extra book to give away. It was at Benedict where she made the profound decision to become a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Jewel always left you with a smile on your face or a belly laugh. She was a sweet lady who served and helped anyone who needed a "hand up."

On Monday, November 17, 2025, the worries and cares of this world were no more. The Lord transitioned her from labor to rest. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Jones, Sr. and Dealia Denmark Jones, and all of her siblings.

Left to cherish her memories are her children: Booketha Eckles, Ivan Eckles, Booker T. "Tre" Eckles, III (Katrina); grandchildren: Denzel Edwards, Demi Eckles, Bryce Eckles, Jordon Eckles, Jakarri Eckles, Tyvan Eckles, Jaquan Pledger, Jaylen Pledger, Jazmyne Pledger, Brian Eckles, Aneisha Moore, Nya Moore, Orianna Moore, Carson Moore; great grandchildren: Malaya, Zaden, and Lincoln; dear friend and father of her children: Booker T. Eckles; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends who will miss her dearly.

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