Ralph Jones

Ralph Jones, 77, passed away peacefully January 23, 2026.

Born on May 29, 1948, in Akron, Ohio to parents Don Paul Jones and Peggy Dolittle (Kline), Ralph grew up in west Akron, attending Buchtel High School and then joined the United States Navy (1966-68) where he was stationed in Spain as a welder. Following the Navy, Ralph returned to Akron where he started welding at Burger Iron. While working at Burger Iron, Ralph attended Winona photography school in Chicago where he perfected his skills. Ralph became certified and eventually a Master Photographer through Winona, winning several awards for his photography from Professional Photographers of America and Professional Photographers of Ohio. Formed in 1985, Captured Memories, Ralph’s studio, allowed him to touch many lives from high school seniors to families, weddings and everything in between.

Through all of this, Diane Jones (Banyai), Ralph’s best friend and beloved wife of 55 years, was by his side from 1968 until his death. Married in 1970, Ralph and Diane lived in Akron, finally moving to Coventry in 1989 where they ran Captured Memories until their retirement. Ralph and Diane loved boating, taking shorter trips to West Virginia, and longer trips to Florida. Through all their trips, Ralph loved fishing where he caught and released a prized, huge topsail catfish.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Don Paul Jones and Peggy Dolittle, brother, Dennis Earl Jones of North Carolina and Mark Paul Jones of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Ralph is survived by his wife, Diane Jones, brother Steve Jones of Ohio, and sister Kim Bishoff of West Virginia. Ralph is also survived by many friends.

A special thank you to the staff and volunteers at the Parkview infusion center in Barberton for their wonderful care and friendship.  

A military service will be held in the springtime at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio, date to be determined later.

Arrangements entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home (330) 535-9186