J.T. Jones

Surrounded by his family, J.T. Jones, 89, of Cleveland, Tennessee peacefully went to his Heavenly home to be with his Lord and Savior early Tuesday morning, March 12, 2024.

He was born October 6, 1934, to the late O.V. Jones and Claudie Jones in Sebring, Florida. He graduated from Sebring High School in 1952 and later graduated from the School of Banking of the South in 1966.

In 1994, J.T. retired as Senior Vice President of Barnett Bank of Palm Beach County, Florida. Later that same year he moved to Tennessee where he served as Executive Vice President for the Church of God Benefits Board until his retirement in 2010. His love of banking and anything to do with numbers served him well as he distinguished himself as a man of integrity in both secular and Christian organizations. He was involved in many civic groups, serving on various committees and boards in both Florida and Tennessee.

Early in life, J.T. sang in quartets, was a choir director, and lead praise and worship. A Southern Gospel music enthusiast, he played the piano and sang songs about the Lord with his family and friends. He loved God with all his heart, and from an early age, served the Church of God denomination as a faithful layperson. He enjoyed camping and traveling with his family, and one of his fondest memories was when he and his wife, Clarice, traveled to the Holy Land in 1975. The impact of that trip brought tears to his eyes every time he spoke about the moving experience. He was the definition of an "encourager" and a "cheerful giver" and was known for his declaration that "You can never outgive God!" A member of Mt. Olive Church of God, he was involved in the Way Makers Sunday School Class and enjoyed their many activities together. With a twinkle in his eyes and a smile on his face, he was quick-witted and had an endless supply of one-liners in response to any situation. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family and the love of his life, Clarice, all of whom he prayed for every day. He will be greatly missed!

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Lorene Thomas, and brother, Doyle Jones, along with several special nieces and nephews.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 69 years, Clarice Jones; daughter, Cheri Cummings; daughter, Twyla (Jaime) Reyes; daughter, Toika (Donnie) Sherlin; daughter, Jennifer (Jon) Denver; son, Brian (Syvannah) Jones. Grandchildren: Haylei (Chad) Longwith, Hope (Drew) Guetensberger, Eric (Annette) Collado, Kevin (Keren) Collado, Jose Reyes, Omar Reyes, Ivan Reyes, Ross (Jenna) Sherlin, Jaxson Denver, Kailyn Denver, Thomas Denver, Noah Jones, Berkeley Jones, Levi Jones, Paisley Jones, Jude Jones, Everley Jones, Luke Jones; Great-Grandchildren: Katrina Collado, Sonia Collado, and Maia Longwith.

The family would like to express special thanks to Legacy Village of Cleveland, and Hearth Hospice for their kindness and care for J.T. during his time with them. All the staff were exceptional in their care for him.

The family will receive friends Saturday, March 23, 2024, 2:00 - 4:00 PM at Mt. Olive Ministries, 3522 Harrison Pike W, Cleveland, TN 37311

A Celebration of Life Service following visitation, will begin at 4:00 PM at Mt. Olive Ministries.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to be made to Legacy Village of Cleveland, Memory Care, Attn: Destiny Helms, Executive Director.