Dorothy Marie Jones

Dorothy Marie Jones, a cherished member of her community and a devoted servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025, at the age of 97. She was born in Liberty, Missouri, on November 19, 1927, to Charles and Ida Smith. Affectionately called Ms. Marie by many, she lived a life rich in love and faith. She was preceded in death by two sons: George R. Jones and Lawrence “LC” Jones; all her siblings: Willard Smith, Vetrol Hall, Lawrence Smith, Bessie Hines, Loraine Monroe, and Cardia Griggs; as well as her grandson, Jason Clark. 

Dorothy graduated from Garrison School in 1946. The first job she had was domestic work for the hefty sum of $20 a week. Dorothy knew she had to do better with five kids to feed. A program, Human Resources, started in Liberty, Missouri, who needed minority workers. She applied and got the job! Dorothy had to learn how to type and drive, which led to her first car purchase. At age 40, she would discover her life’s calling of unwavering dedication and service to others. 

Dorothy went on to become a nursing assistant, bringing warmth and compassion to her work until her retirement at the age of 84. Even after she retired, she participated in the Senior Companion Program in Kansas City, Missouri, where she would visit with the elderly for social contact and assist them with minor tasks in their homes. Her tireless support left a lasting impression on countless lives, embodying the calling she felt to serve her community. It was not only her profession but her passion, as she consistently put the needs of others before her own. 

Dorothy was a beloved member of the First Baptist Church in Liberty, Missouri, where her faith flourished. She not only loved the Lord but also spread that love through her music. A true embodiment of joy, she shared her gift of song as a member of the church choir, first as part of a quartet with her sisters, and later in a duo. Her melodious voice was a source of inspiration and comfort to many, echoing her deep-seated belief in the power of community and shared worship. A verse in one of her favorite songs was “If I can help somebody as I pass along the way, then my living will not be in vain.”

Beyond her service and musical talents, Dorothy adored her flowers, nurturing them with the same love and care she offered to her family, friends, and the numerous souls who crossed her path. Each bloom reflected her spirit—vibrant, nurturing, and filled with life. 

She is survived by her children: Clifford Jones, Emmanuel “Doug” Jones, and Arlene Clark; her grandchildren: Aretha, Cliff, Stefan, Delana, Billy, Amber, Justin, Katja, and Moriah; 16 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; adopted son, Lebron Elder; and her trusted friend, Patty Bush. Special thanks to A.J. Byrd and Reverend William Dodd for your loving support.

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.” – Phillipians 3:20-21

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

-Proverbs 31:30-31