Lorenza Jones

Lorenza Jones, affectionately known as “Boo”; was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend to many. He transitioned from this earthly life on April 18, 2023, at the age of 85 in Marion Ohio from his long battle with cancer.

Lorenza was born on April 12. 1938, in Ruleville, Mississippi to Alberta (Cosey) Downing and Watson Jones. He was always known to be a diligent, smart, and outspoken worker, who believed in being a person of your word and getting your “own”. From the tender age of 12, he worked in the hot cotton fields of Mississippi, to gain money for his desires. Seeing this way wasn’t suitable for his needs, he enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 15.

While working through the ranks in the army from Private E-1 Class to Staff Sargent, Lorenza completed two tours during Vietnam War. He lived all over the world, including Mexico, South Korea, Japan, Germany, and Vietnam. He loved sharing stories about his time within the military with his grandsons and nephews; especially discussing his role within the infantry. While stationed in Topeka KS, he married his first wife, Ms. Kay (Ramiey) Jones. They were married for 10+ years before separating. He continued his military deployment, where he was stationed in Augusta, GA. While there, he met and married Louise (Gantt) Jones, which brought together a huge, blended family. He retired from the military after 20 years of service and with an honorable discharge.

After retirement from the military, he resumed civilian life where he attended and received an Associate Degree in Business Administration, from North Central Technical College. He worked at Marion Correctional Institution, where he retired after 15 years of service. He also worked at Walmart where he enjoyed assembling bicycles.

He is proceeded in death by his parents Alberta (Cosey) Downing, and Watson Jones; spouses Kay (Ramiey) Jones and Louise (Gantt) Jones; siblings: Arthur Jones, Delores (Mitchell) Troutman, John L. Mitchell, Perry Mitchell, Frank Downing, Billie Lyn Downing, and Donald Downing; daughter Mildred Dean Smith.

He is survived by his children; Samuel Jones, Jeannette (Robert) Anderson, Angie Campbell, Janet Jones, Augustina Wear, Lorenzo Johnson, Vivan (Ronald) Myles, Robert Neil Gantt, Patricia Andrew, Clifford Jr, Aleazta Grubbs and Zelda Gantt; Sisters: Lenora (Johnnie) Mayes, and Renee Downing; Special Cousin/Brother; Willie Winters; 22 grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, great-great- grandchildren, a multitude of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.