Yvonne P. Jones

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life radiantly lived that we announce the passing of Yvonne Patricia Jones, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was a loving wife to her husband, a dedicated mother to her two cherished daughters, and a proud grandmother of four grandchildren to whom she was affectionately known as “Nana” and “Nana Banana.” Born on September 21, 1955, in Port of Spain, Trinidad, Yvonne’s life was a testament of love, strength, and unshakeable faith.

A woman of Christ-led grace and compassion, Yvonne carried her faith into every interaction. Her strength was rooted in scripture. She found true fulfillment in praying for people, worshiping at church, and extending kindness wherever she went. One of her favorite gospel songs, "Redeemer" by Nicole C. Mullen, mirrored her unwavering belief in Christ’s redemption and offering of forgiveness and hope to others. Yvonne’s vibrant presence coupled with warm conversations, touched the lives of everyone. She was drawn naturally to gatherings of family, friends, and neighbors. Whether it was a heartfelt conversation over a cup of coffee, an impromptu prayer circle, reading a poem or inspiration she wrote, or just sharing her ‘light’ as she smiled and entered a room - she made everyone feel valued and appreciated. These are just a few of the things that suffused her life with joy. Yvonne had a servant’s heart. She volunteered in her community, gave to the needy, and always made time to listen, uplift, and share her gentle wisdom or be of service to others. She embodied kindness and hospitality, and her voice with her Caribbean accent was both infectious and uplifting.

Yvonne’s greatest pride and joy were her family. She is survived by her beloved husband James (her high school sweetheart), her daughters Juliet Jones-Robinson (Thomas Robinson, III) and Lakisha Jones (Alan Rawlings), her grandchildren, Maliek A. Rawlings, Arielle E. Justiniano (Jeremy Justiniano), Justin A. Rawlings, Juleon N. Jones, and step grandchildren. She poured out her love daily – listening, guiding, laughing, encouraging, and nurturing each of them selflessly with endless wisdom. She enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren and would often make them their favorite foods (like stew chicken and curry chicken) or insist on a Dunkin run to get her favorite caramel iced latte with “extra-extra caramel" whenever they were around. The best part is that each one of them felt like her ‘favorite’ whenever she was with them – and that is because "they all were!"

She is forever loved by her sisters and spouses: Ann Whiteman (John), Lynn Stevenson (Burnie), and the late Dianne Bissoon. She is forever loved by her brothers and spouses: the late Edmund Roberts (Ruth), Victor Morris, Fitzroy Morris (the late Bessie), and Harold Clark. She is survived by a host of nieces and nephews: Edmund Williams and children, Shawn Whiteman (Zipporah and children), Lisa Early (Aries and children), Alan Whiteman (Kerry and son), the late Hansley Scott and children, Tameka Hughes and daughter, Naariyah Nixon (Issac and children), Shama Stevenson, Cherese Bracey (Taji), Andrey Morris, Lorrenza Suarez and son, Sandra Suarez, and Melanie Malave' and children, to name a few. She also leaves behind many family and friends both in the United States and Trinidad and Tobago – all of whom were blessed by her presence. Her warmth, prayers, and unwavering devotion shaped their lives forever.

Yvonne taught us that faith isn’t simply spoken—it is lived! Her life spoke louder than any words, and her actions echoed her faith. Throughout her beautiful life, she left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Whether praying with strangers, supporting her family, or embracing simple pleasures like a long car ride while listening to gospel music, she embodied the love of Christ each day. Though she is deeply missed, her spirit remains alive in our hearts, guiding us with every breath we take. She may no longer walk beside us, but she lives in us. Her legacy of love and prayer and her spirit will forever be in motion – as it is woven into the fabric of our lives and will continue through her children and grandchildren.

The "Celebration of Life" Homegoing will be held on Tuesday, July 15, at Hooper Memorial Home, 3532 Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA 17109 as follows:

10:00 am - 11:00 am: Viewing11:00 am – 12:30 pm: Service

The Burial will be held at: Shoop’s Cemetery, 4450 Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17109, from 1:00 pm – 1:30 pm.

Join us in honoring her memory of a life steeped in faith and love, and find comfort and hope in the promise of resurrection and the certainty that Yvonne (Nana) now rests in God’s eternal care. We will always love you.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23