William Houston Jones

William H. Jones (Bill) was born on May 28, 1932 in Woodruff, South Carolina to Walter and Inez Jones. He graduated from Georgia Military Academy and Clemson University, where he excelled academically before embarking on a 20 year career in the United States Air Force.

During his military career, he served on the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington D.C., the Diplomatic Corps at the American Embassy in Brussels Belgium, and as an aide to the US Representative to NATO. Also serving at the Atomic Energy Commission contributing to upper air nuclear testing. He was stationed at Tan Son Nhut Air Force Base during the Viet Nam War, and flew 172 combat missions, 520 combat hours, with the 460th Tactical Fighter Wing earning many honors and medals. During his last military assignment, he commanded the 90th Flying Training Wing overseeing the training of Euro-NATO fighter pilots. Flying remained Bill's lifelong passion.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1977, Bill launched a second successful career becoming a Certified Financial Planner at Merrill Lynch, earning membership in the firm's Executive, President, and Chairman's Club levels. He served his clients well for 30+ years before retiring.

He was a committed community leader as a Shriner Mason, member of Scottish Rite, Order of Daedalians, and Air Force Association. He served on the boards of The Salvation Army, National Kidney Foundation, and Mental Health Association. He held leadership roles as President of Southwest Rotary Club, Area Toastmasters, and Governor of Toastmasters International.

In 1991, he and wife Sharon were married and spent 34 loving fun filled years together. Their favorite place was their cozy log cabin nestled in the aspens and pines on the banks of the Conejos River in Colorado. Many happy memories were made at this special place with family, friends, and their treasured dogs, little Buddy and Millie.

Bill was so proud of his two beautiful daughters, Brenda and Shelia. He lovingly instilled his military precision in them as they learned to wash cars like professional detailers, tend the yard with groundskeeper details, and to never ever leave a room with the lights on. And to never ever be late for any occasion! They thanked him later for those character building traits, but not at the time!

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Baggett Jones, his daughter Brenda Jones and fiance Ron Ennis, and extended family. He is predeceased by his daughter Sheila Jones and sister, Ann Hord.

Sharon and Brenda would like to thank caregivers Esmeralda and Sofia, The Staff of House of Hope on Azalea and Bluebonnet Wings, Dr Parkey, the Hospice Team of Ruth, Shelby, Ashley, and Sandra, and also Dr Glenn Beck who was Bill's best friend and came faithfully every week to visit Bill during all 3 yrs he was at House of Hope, and all others who gave their time and loving care for Bill during his long illness.

Bill's family asks that should you like to make a donation to honor his memory, to please consider these worthy organizations: The Food Bank of Wichita Falls (to help families feed their children), Meals on Wheels (helping senior citizens with food needs), and most of all, Hospice of Wichita Falls, as they are angels in their ministry to patients suffering fatal illness and to their loved ones during grief.

To our sweet Bill we say a loving good-bye, "Fly High and Free, Wildcat"

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lunnscolonial.com