Sylvia Mae Jones

Sylvia Mae Jones, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was born on March 12, 1943, in Edwardsville, Virginia, to the late Gladiola Carter Jones and William McKinley Jones. She attended the Edwardsville Public School system before relocating to the District of Columbia in 1958, where she would build her life and raise her family.

Sylvia was the proud mother of seven children: Malcolm Smith (preceded her in death), Troy Smith (preceded her in death), and Michael Jones, followed by Malisa Williams, Charles "JJ" Jones, Selina Jones, and Carter "Ondre" Jones. On September 19, 1964, Sylvia united in marriage with Charles Otis Jones, and together they welcomed her last four children. Though their paths later diverged, Sylvia's devotion to her children remained steadfast and unconditional.

She was also a loving grandmother to 18 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, pouring her heart into her family and creating countless cherished memories.

Sylvia dedicated over 30 years of service as a baker at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C., retiring in 1999. Her warm spirit, tireless work ethic, and signature baked goods left a lasting impression on colleagues, patients, and staff alike. She was beloved not only for her skill, but for the kindness and joy she brought to every shift.

A gifted cook, Sylvia was known far and wide for her delicious home-cooked meals. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and joy, where family, friends, and neighbors gathered to enjoy her famous dishes and desserts. Whether it was a holiday feast or a spontaneous Sunday dinner, Sylvia's food brought people together. She was known for feeding not just her family, but the community, often receiving requests for her signature recipes that became staples at gatherings and celebrations.

Sylvia's nurturing spirit extended well beyond her own household. She served as a foster parent in both Washington, D.C. and North Carolina, opening her heart and home to children in need of love and stability. She also babysat for many families over the years, becoming a trusted caregiver and beloved figure in the lives of countless children. Sylvia believed deeply in the power of education, and every child she cared for learned to read at an early age under her gentle guidance, a gift that shaped their futures and reflected her unwavering commitment to their growth.

In her final years, Sylvia was cared for with extraordinary love and devotion by her daughter Malisa, who served as her primary caregiver. With the support of her grandchildren Natasha, Chandler, William, and Hunter, Sylvia received the highest level of care, surrounded by the same love she had always given so freely.

Beyond her devotion to her family and community, Sylvia loved to dance, laugh, and joke around with those she loved. In her younger years, she and her closest girlfriends formed a group known as the "Five Classy Ladies." Together, they traveled, hand danced, and enjoyed life to the fullest. Later, she delighted in passing down her love for hand dancing to her grandchildren, a joy that lives on in treasured family videos.

Sylvia is survived by her brothers William S. Jones, Thomas Jones, and Markell Jones; her sisters Sadie C. Holbert and Michelle Jones; her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will forever honor her memory. She was preceded in death by her siblings Regina Jones, Shirlene Jones, and Roynald Jones.

Her legacy of love, laughter, generosity, and lifelong learning will continue to shine through all who were blessed to know her.

Viewing, 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025, until time of Service, 11:00 a.m., in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640. Interment, Heritage Memorial Gardens, 13472 Poplar Hill Road Waldorf, Maryland 20601.