Thomas Jones, 96, of Vincennes, IN went to be with his Lord on February 22, 2025. Tom, a first generation American, was born in Bicknell, IN to the late John and Elizabeth (Shanks) Jones on May 23, 1928. After losing his father at a young age, Tom and his siblings began working during the Great Depression to help their mother pay for expenses. At the age of 16, Tom had two brothers fighting in WWII. He decided he wanted to also fight for his country, in World War II so he had his mother sign permission to let him join the United States Army while he was under the age of 18. He was among the brave soldiers who descended upon Normandy Beach on D-Day. Unlike many of his comrades, Tom survived the battle and was able to return to the United States. Forever a patriot, Tom reenlisted with the United States Navy to serve our country during the Korean War.
Once he had returned from war, he married Ruby Hedge on August 22, 1953. Tom was a Union construction worker where he worked on numerous buildings in Knox County. He later retired from Peyronnin Construction and remained a proud member of the union. Although Tom had many struggles throughout his life, he never quit. He proudly was his wife’s caregiver when she fell ill with Parkinson’s Disease, and he never left her side. Tom was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather and will be deeply missed.
In Tom’s free time, he enjoyed listening to music, cutting his grass, going to Wendy’s, flower and tomato gardening, attending any veteran events, and spending time with his family. Tom faithfully attended Thursday Church, and was proudly baptized at the age of 91, proving that it is never too late to make a change.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents Jack and Elizabeth Jones; wife Ruby Jones; daughters Judith Deffendoll and Janet Baker; granddaughter Brook Baker; siblings Mary, Barbara, Israel, Margaret, Archibold, Lizzie, Georgie, John, Arthur, Robina,Robert; son-in-law John Memering.
He is survived by his children Debbie Memering and Mike (Trena) Jones; grandchildren Kristi (Kevin) Ritz, Ryan Memering, Braun (Lottie) Baker, Kari Memering, Todd Jones, Mindi Vestal, Tori Jones; 17 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends
Goodwin-Sievers is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Jones. Visitation will be held Friday, February 28, 2025, from 11 am to service time. The Funeral Service will begin promptly at 1 pm with burial at Memorial Park to follow.
Memorial donations can be made to the Vincennes Military Museum in Tom’s honor.
