Avry Jones Sr.

Ary Lee Jones Sr. Ary Lee Jones Sr., a man known for his unwavering commitment to civil rights, his infectious laughter, and his love for family, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, in Talladega, Alabama, at the age of 79. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on February 15, 1947, to Willie Pete and Hattie Mae Jones, and spent his most recent years residing in Knoxville, Tennessee.

 A true Chicago native, Ary was the life of every party, renowned for his sense of humor, his singing, and his skillful "Chi Town stepping". He was a highly charismatic individual who had a unique way of connecting with anyone he met, often leaving them with a memorable, and usually silly, nickname that was exclusively theirs. Ary was deeply committed to his values, often fighting for what was right and always prioritizing the needs of his family and friends, even if it meant putting himself last. He had a special love for Western and sci-fi movies. To the delight of his children and grandchildren, he started a cherished family tradition known as "Pig Out Parties". 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Pete and Hattie Mae Jones; his siblings, Joe, Albert T, Mike, Doris, Florida Mae, Vada, and Frankie; his daughter, Marilyn; and his grandson, Demarcus.

Ary is survived by his loving wife, Mildred Elizabeth Jones. His memory is carried on by eight children: Ary Lee Jr., Juriam (wife Nicole), Milonda (husband Lewis), Jairus, Monicia (husband Tony), Meshona, Milary, and Megan. He was a devoted grandfather to 43 grandchildren: Shavay, Charise, Lanisha, Taylor, Avelo, Deaunte, K'Shawn, AJ, Aryonna, Parkera, Viante, Vianje, Dante, Brittany, Jhavontae, Marquis, Giovante, Demarrus, Teraniqua, Tori, Jasmine, Mersadie, Alaysia, Emijah, Aniyah, King, Aja, Miracle, Jamarius, Antavion, Ma'Shyia, Merciliana, Milayah, MaQuenna, Minah, Peyton, Judah, Cameryn, and Kennedi. He is also survived by a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, and his siblings, Mike, George, Dorothy, Tina, Lula, Pauline, Sylvia, Suddie, and Bernice.  

Family will receive friends Friday April 17, 2026 from 10:00am to 11:00am at Jarnigan & Son Mortuary, 2823 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue Knoxville, TN, with funeral services to follow. Interment at Mt. Olive Cemetery. 

Final arrangements entrusted to Jarnigan & Son Mortuary. www.jarniganandson.com