Donald K Jones, Sr.

Donald "Don" Kevin Jones, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida passed away on May 25, 2023, after battling a long illness.

Don was born on May 7, 1961, to Frank and Antoinette Jones. Don was one of six brothers and sisters, all of whom he loved dearly.  He was raised in Annapolis, Maryland and attended Severna Park High School before embarking on a 35- year career at CSX Transportation.

One of Don’s proudest career accomplishments was the fact that he worked his way up from a position as a nighttime janitor, when he began at CSX Transportation, to Division Manager, where he oversaw more than 1,800 employees before retiring from the company. Throughout his career, he was known for his unique ability to treat his employees with dignity and respect while promoting an ultra-safe work environment and always making time for his family despite his demanding job responsibilities.

Don was a man who enjoyed traveling the world. He had a special love for visiting premiere golf courses, hiking the Smoky Mountains, exploring national parks, and had a special place in his heart for the beautiful state of Utah.

When Don was not traveling, he was playing golf, watching horse racing with his beloved dogs Chase and Arley by his side, and was a dedicated fan of the Maryland Terrapins, Washington Commanders, and the Baltimore Orioles. In addition, Don loved music. A love that he passed onto his children.

Don was a spiritual man with a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He wrote poetry, and in addition, authored a book on his personal faith journey titled, “The Bridge We Cross.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank D. Jones. Jr. and Antoinette E. Jones, and his brother, Frank D. Jones, Sr (Cathy). He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Beth” Jones of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida; daughter Ashley L. Jones of Northport, Alabama; son Donald Kevin Jones, Jr. of Brookwood, Alabama; step-daughter Whitney Henson (Hunter) of San Diego, California and step-daughter Kayli Rushing (JR) of Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Don is also survived by his sister Antoinette “Cookie” Wineholt (Ron) of Annapolis, Maryland; brother Darrell K. Jones (Marci) of Crownsville, Maryland; brother Neil K. Jones (Nicky) of Boston, Massachusetts and sister Linda C. Scharnhorst (Chris) of Sandy Springs, Georgia. Don also had four grandchildren: Beckham, Holland, Lennon, and Lainey.

His humor, compassion, wit, contagious laugh, unconditional love for family and friends, and kindness will be sorely missed by all.

Family and friends may visit on Thursday, June 1, 2023, from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm at Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home at 3600 3^rd Street South, Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023, at 11:00 am at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 545 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082. A brief remembrance reception will follow at Sawgrass Beach Club, 9795 Summer Place, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082.