Roland E. Jones, Sr. Sr.

Roland E. Jones Sr., 85, passed away peacefully at home on August 2, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, he was the beloved son of Roland and Minnie Jones and grew up in the Cromwell Farms neighborhood, where he spent his youth exploring the marshes with his dear friend Bucky Marshall. An alumnus of Granby High School, Roland carried with him a spirit of curiosity and joy that shaped his relationships and passions throughout life.

Roland proudly served in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Master Sergeant after over 20 years of honorable service, including in-country duty during the Vietnam War. Following his military career, Roland worked in satellite communications and later completed two professional tours in Saudi Arabia with the Honeywell Corporation.

Roland was a proud member of both the Khedive Shriners Hospital, a fraternal organization known for its philanthropy and support of Shriners Hospitals for Children, and The American Legion, the nation's largest wartime veterans service organization dedicated to supporting fellow veterans and strengthening communities.

He was predeceased by his sister Smiley Thompson and is survived by his sister Sarah Whitehurst. He is also survived by his son, Roland E. Jones Jr. (Laurie), and his two grandchildren, Evan and Carlie, who brought immense pride and happiness to his days. Roland recently married the love of his life and best friend of over 25 years, Carol Wright. With Carol, he lovingly welcomed her daughters, Erica Cordero and Karla Murray (Steve), embracing them and their families as his own. In addition, Roland leaves behind a large and devoted extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Roland's generous spirit, deep sense of loyalty, and humor will be forever remembered by all who knew him. He was known for his quick wit, magnetic personality, and the remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went. A devoted and hard-working man, he poured his heart into everything he did.

Roland especially loved spending time on his boat sharing stories and laughs with the close-knit community of friends on the C-Dock. For decades, he and his large group of friends gathered on Wednesday nights at various local restaurants to share stories, enjoy each other's company, and celebrate the simple joy of friendship. He lived his life with courage and heart-and leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and adventure. Wednesday nights-and life overall-will not be the same without him.

A visitation will be held at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, 8464 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk, on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 1 p.m., followed by a funeral service with military honors at 2 p.m. A Celebration of Life reception will follow at the home of his lifelong friend Bucky Marshall (Judy), beginning at 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local SPCA in Roland's honor. His love for animals and belief in kindness extended to all living things.