Robert W. Jones

1937 - 2024

Robert W Jones

May 28, 1937 - August 12, 2024

Bob Jones began his life's journey on May 28, 1937, in Tampa, FL. His family soon moved to Richmond, Virginia, which he would fondly call home for most of his life.

Affable and charismatic, Bob was always reaching out to others with a warm handshake. He charmed his way into the heart of his future wife, Nita Manning Jones, and swept her off her feet on the dance floor, where they both wowed spectators with their smooth moves. The couple married in 1960, and two years later welcomed their son, Wayne, and daughter, Kimberly, the following year in 1963. Bob died on August 12th in Richmond.

He was an enthusiastic supporter of both Nita and his children as they pursued their careers and personal passions. He was particularly supportive of Nita's journalistic endeavors, as well as her determination to instill a love for the arts and social justice in their two children.

Bob proudly served in the Navy, setting sail on the USS Forrestal from 1957 to 1958. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Richmond. He spent the majority of his professional career at Reynolds Metals Company, where he worked for 30 years, primarily in the packaging and recycling divisions. He then worked his way up to advertising manager where he found his niche through a creative collaboration with The Martin Agency. Bob received honors from the American Advertising Federation and the American Marketing Association, among others. He also served as president of the Richmond Advertising Club from 1989-1990. At the end of his career at Reynolds, Bob continued in marketing and advertising with Sanders Consulting and finally at Richmond Goodwill.

Bob and his wife were devoted fans of the arts, culture, and theater, and always welcomed a new adventure. Among those included embracing the Dallas Cowboys and rodeos during his 5-year work transfer to Texas, visiting their children in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago, vacationing in Montreal and Acapulco, cruising the oceans, and kicking back on the rivers of Virginia, the lakes of Texas, and the beaches of the Outer Banks.

Deeply engaged in his community, Bob was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Richmond, serving as usher and sometimes helping in the community kitchen. He and his wife also volunteered for several years with Meals on Wheels. He was active in the Democratic Party and a fierce advocate for social justice issues. He and his wife were avid supporters of Equality Virginia, a statewide advocacy organization supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Nita. He is survived by a son, Robert Wayne Jones, Jr., and son-in-law, Rich Schultz; a daughter, Kimberly Jones Clark, and son-in-law, David Clark; two grandchildren, Cameron and Bailey Clark; a sister, Rhea Baldino, and brother-in-law, John Baldino; sisters-in-law, Linda G. Manning; Gloria Manning; Johann Jones; and several nieces and nephews.

We will celebrate Bob, "Dad/Paw Paw", with a private scattering of his and Nita's ashes on the river. They both so loved the water. Please feel free to honor him by contributing to your favorite organization promoting social justice.