Anna Frances Jones, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, entered into eternal rest peacefully on September 22, 2024, in Groves, Texas. She was born on October 9, 1941, in Lockhart, Texas, but due to her father’s work, she relocated to several cities including Houston. She finally established roots in Lafayette, Louisiana where she graduated High school. She began her college career at USL before completing her degree at the University of Texas at Galveston. She obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. Her service to others included her career as a Registered Nurse. Her work as an RN included John Sealy Hospital in Galveston, Fort Worth Children’s Hospital, and St. Mary Hospital in Port Arthur. Also, she frequently assisted her husband, Dr. Gene Jones, at his office through the years. Her love for others and dedication to the service of others enriched the lives of many with her unwavering love and spirited nature.
Anna Frances devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family which she cherished above all else. She is survived by her adoring husband of 62 years, Dr. Gene Jones of Groves; her daughter, Sharon Knighton of Groves; her sons, Randy Jones of Katy, and Garrett Jones, along with his wife Rebecca, of Nederland. Anna was a proud grandmother to three grandchildren, Heather Knighton Lovelace, Isabel Jones, and Cassidy Jones, and was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Isaiah Garcia and Haisley Lovelace Knighton. Additionally, she is survived by her brother, Howard Rodenberry, and his wife, Marie, of Carlyss, Louisiana.
Anna Frances’ life was marked by her vibrant personality and her commitment to her community. She was a dedicated member of the Port Arthur Service League of which she served as President, and a longstanding participant at the First Baptist Church of Port Arthur, where she worshipped for over 54 years. Her service to the church included working with the children’s choir and singing in the adult choir. Her musical talent was further expressed through her ability to play the piano. She studied throughout her life beginning at a young age and even played recitals into her 70’s, often inspiring young students to further success. She truly appreciated music in all forms, even accompanying her husband to his band’s practices and performances, where he sang and played guitar. Her love for traveling was known to all, as was her zeal for exploring new places and creating cherished memories with her loved ones. She dearly cherished the special time she spent traveling with her husband.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Mary Cecile Sanders Rodenberry, and her brother, Charles Rodenberry.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on September 27, 2024, at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, 5601 39th Street, Groves, Texas from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM, after which, she will have a graveside service at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves, Texas.
Anna Frances Jones will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, dedication to family, and commitment to community will endure through the countless lives she touched.
Dr. Gene Jones and family would like to show their appreciation to Compassion Care Hospice for their continued support especially recognizing Diana, Kim, and Elaine for their loving touch.
Also, her private caregivers, Martina Cunningham and Lucita Wilson, for their tireless service and dedication to her welfare.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Baptist Church of Port Arthur, 3948 Highway 365, Port Arthur, TX 77642.