ELC Jones by Jerry Madison Harrison

Life’s Reflections

E.L.C. Jones was born on February 4, 1944, in Coldwater, Mississippi to the late Emmit Jones and Alice Brownlee Jones. Softly and gently on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 8:07 p.m. God in his infinite wisdom and the living spirit of E.L.C. Jones ascended into heaven for eternal rest. He was proceeded in death by his parents, four sisters and three brothers.

At an early age he confessed a hope in Christ. In later years he joined Pearly Gate Missionary Baptist Church and remained a member until he passed away.

As a teenager he met Betty Jean Wesson. After a long courtship they were wedded in holy matrimony on October 31, 1966.

E.L.C. served in the United States Army and was a retiree of International Harvester, Roadway Express and an active member of Teamsters Local Union 667. He enjoyed driving on the road, traveling to visit family, and spending time with family.

He leaves an adorable wife of 59 years, Betty Jones; two daughters, Latoinette Cohn (Cedric), Erica Jones, two sons, Zaffrenarda King (Patricia), Michael Rhodes (Sharon), two granddaughters, three grandsons, one great-granddaughter, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The Broken Chain

I little knew that morning, God was going to call your name. In life I loved you dearly, in death I do the same. It broke my heart to lose you; you did not go alone.

For part of me went with you, the day God called you home. You left me beautiful memories; your love is still my guide. And though we cannot see you, you’re always at my side.

Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same.

But as God calls us one by one the chain will link again.

Celebration of Life

Saturday, March 14, 2026

12:00 Noon

Pearly Gate Missionary Baptist Church

531 South Parkway East • Memphis, Tennessee 38106

Pastor Ernest Gillespie, III, Officiating

Reverend Clyde Morton, Moderator

Processional.............................................The Family of Mr. E.L.C. Jones “Going Up Yonder”

Musical Selection.................................................................Darryl Jones

Scripture Readings:

The Old Testament.....................................Pastor Gerald Rayborn

The New Testament...................................Reverend Clyde Morton

Words of Comfort.................................................Minister Harriet Sutton

Musical Selection............................................................Reginald Gaston

Resolution....................................................................Dr. Grace Durham

Acknowledgements........................................................Michelle Mitchell

Expressions of Love: (Respectfully, Two Minutes Please)

Rev. Willie Hardy, Sr. - Co-Worker

Roadway Truck Drivers (Please Stand)

Mr. Johnnie Logan - Friend

Mr. Louis Holmes - Church

Poem.......................................................................................Dylan Rand

Musical Selection..................................................................Darrly Jones

Eulogy.............................................................Pastor Ernest Gillespie, III

Recessional

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give me at that day. And not to me only, but to all them that love His appearing.”

II Timothy 4:7

On behalf of our entire family, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you for being with us today as we celebrate the life of E.L.C. Jones. Your presence, kind words, prayers, and support have brought us comfort during this difficult time. Whether you traveled far, sent your condolences, or simply held us in your thoughts – we are deeply grateful. As we move forward with his memory in our hearts, we are reminded that love never truly fades. Thank you for honoring him with us.