Tom Jones

Thomas Gerald Jones, age 87 of Abilene, TX went to meet his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 11, 2024 at Lyndale Memory Care Center in Abilene.

Tom was born in Trent, Texas in a small farmhouse on August 7, 1936 to D.H. and Mary Katherine Tittle Jones.  He went to school at Trent and was a proud “GORILLA”. After high school, he graduated from McMurry University.  He married Linda Sue Kelley of Clyde on March 21, 1981 at his newly built home in Merkel, TX.  He worked for the Dept of Transportation, appliance sales, and other sales jobs.  His favorite job was recruiting kids to attend TSTI in Sweetwater.  He also farmed and raised cattle on the family farm in Trent.  He was a proud member of the National Guard.  He liked to volunteer for many local organizations such as the West Texas Fair, Aldersgate Community Garden, Meals on Wheels, and visitation of the elderly through the Trent Methodist Church.  As he volunteered, he was always hoping that his Love of Christ would shine through.

Tom is often described as a generous and caring person. He loved people and could strike up a conversation with anyone.  Tom loved the Big Country and kept us all well informed on the happenings here.  He was wonderful with words and could write beautifully. Although he had no children of his own, he loved to dote over his nieces and nephews, making them feel special.  His sisters are proud to call him “Big Brother.”

Tom was preceded in death by his wife Linda (just six weeks ago), and his parents.

He is survived by his sisters Ruby Lee Petree (Gerald) of Albany, TX and Rose Mary DeLane of Austin, 2 nieces, 2 nephews, 3 great nieces, 8 great nephews, 3 great-great nieces and 1 great-great nephew.

Pall bearers will be his great nephews: Ryan Pleasant, Jordan Pleasant, Dylan Petree, Evan Petree, Kit Patterson II, Ren Patterson, Zac DeLane, and Cody Petree. Honorary pall bearer will be Louie Valdez.

Visitation will be held at Trent United Methodist Church at 1:00 with funeral services following at 2:00.  Jeff Pleasant and Cody Petree will officiate under the direction of Starbuck Funeral Home.  Burial will be at the Trent Cemetery with all being welcome to attend.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the wonderful folks at Lyndale Memory Care.  A special “Thank you” to Loni and Rachel who took extra time to take Tom on outings and made him feel like part of their family.  Also, a big “Thank You” to Louie and Juanita Valdez who have shown their love to Tom and Linda with an endless supply of caring and dedication for years.  We truly appreciate you!

Memorials may be sent to Trent United Methodist Church or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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