Jones, Sr., Russell L.
6/10/2006
RUSSELL L. JONES, SR.
SEPTEMBER 20, 1948 – JUNE 10, 2006
“And I will pray to the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.”
~John 14:16~
On Saturday, June 10, 2006, Reverend Russell L. Jones, Sr. peacefully transitioned into eternal rest with his Father. Reverend Jones was born to the union of Leonard and Lottie Jones on September 20, 1948 in New Iberia, Louisiana. Within the New Iberia school system, he attended A. B. Simon Elementary and Jonas Henderson High School. Reverend Jones was an exceptional student, who excelled both academically as well as musically. He was a musician who played the saxophone, piano, and organ. Upon graduation from high school, Reverend Jones attended Dillard University in New Orleans where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. He then pursued theological training at the Interdenominational Theological Center-Gammon Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. After completion of his studies there, he received a Master of Divinity degree.
Reverend Jones was ordained a Deacon in 1967, and subsequently an Elder in 1970, in the United Methodist Church. Reverend Jones had a dual career as an educator and pastor. He served as principal of Sager Brown Elementary in Baldwin, Louisiana, for a year and a half, and later instructed at Carver High School, and Augustine Middle School in New Orleans, Louisiana. He retired after twenty-four years of service in the New Orleans Public School System. Within the United Methodist Church, his conference charges included St. Matthew, Haven, and St. Mark United Methodist Churches. As pastor, Reverend Jones extended himself to his congregations without fail. His legacy was his mastery of the English language, the importance of teaching the Word of God, and his dedication to ALL members of his congregation.
Reverend Jones was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy Hayes Jones and his son, Russell “Rusty” L. Jones, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn R. Jones; brother, Reverend William Jones, Sr. (Brenda); nephew, William Jones, Jr. (Maria); niece, Lenita Jones; step-sons, Lumar J. Ogden and David B. Ogden; step-daughter, Dr. Moira L. Ogden; godchild, Jansen Leray, and a host of other relatives and friends.
Source: Louisiana Conference Journal, 2007; p. 256.
