Thomas Michael "Mike" Jones

Clyde – Thomas Michael "Mike" Jones, 74, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Maggie Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation with loved ones by his side.

Son of the late Charles T. Jones and Betty S. Jones, Mike was born in Coral Gables, Florida. As a child, Mike’s family moved to Balsam, North Carolina. In 1958, Mike’s father and grandfather built the Gem Motel and Jones Rock Shop in Lake Junaluska which later became the family home.

In addition to his parents, Mike s preceded in death by his loving wife of 52 years, Joyce S. Jones. Mike is survived by his brother, David Jones of Cherokee; his daughter, Bonnie (Greg); son, Mick (Nicole); daughter, Megan; and six grandchildren, Eli, Olivia, Isaac, Millie, Harrison, and Lucas of Haywood County.

Mike earned a Master’s of Chemistry from Western Carolina University and then went on to teach for 37.5 years with Haywood County Schools. Mike taught chemistry and physics at Pisgah High School for 36 years, as well as Waynesville Junior High School, Haywood Community College and summer programs through Summer Ventures at WCU.

Growing up, Mike was part of the family business, sorting and cataloging minerals for the rock shop and framing photographs. Mike was a talented photographer, submitting images for The Mountaineer while in college and later as a wedding photographer with his wife, Joy. Mike had a passion for technology as well. In 1981, he started Datamax Computer Systems, building and selling personal computers. Mike was an avid amateur (Ham) radio operator, violinist and member of various choirs. Together, Mike and Joy were active in their church, Hazelwood Baptist Church, singing in the choir, teaching Sunday school, and running the sound and video production during worship services. Mike was known for his boisterous personality, sharing stories, constantly teaching and telling jokes.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, December 11, 2023 at Hazelwood Baptist Church with the Reverend Tim Lolley officiating. Burial will follow at Crawford/Ray Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 12:00 - 1:00 p. m. prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Haywood County Schools Foundation at https://hcsf.haywood.k12.nc.us/

The care of Mike has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.