With deep love and a heavy heart, I share the passing of my beloved husband, Louis W. Jones Sr., who departed this life on February 15, 2026, after a courageous two-year battle lost to prostate cancer. Louis was born on December 2, 1949, and lived a life rich in purpose, leadership, curiosity, and love.

Louis and I were blessed to share 32 years of marriage, from July 1, 1994, until his passing. He was my partner, my protector, my teacher, my travel companion, and the love of my life. Loving Louis was a rich textured tapestry of love - he was steady, strong, brilliant, fun, profound, disciplined, literary, charming, witty, impactful and deeply devoted to those he loved.

Louis was a proud 1969 graduate of Kansas State University and a lifelong advocate for education. His professional career spanned more than 50 years in the information technology field, where he was a pioneer in developing early business applications on mainframe platforms. His work helped lay the foundation for modern enterprise systems, and his leadership style—often supported by his big, booming baritone voice—inspired confidence, respect, and trust. Louis believed in lifting others up, mentoring generously, and helping people reach their full potential.

Before our marriage, Louis was previously married to Cheryl Jones Davis and Holly Hurd Jones. He was the proud father of and to a total of six children:

Nichol Jones Davis, Nichol Hurd, Michael Hurd, Louis Jones Jr., Antoinette Walker Crosby (and husband William), and Jeffery Walker III. One of Louis’s greatest joys was educating his children and encouraging them to think critically, live boldly, and value learning.

Louis was blessed with three biological grandchildren—Najee Davis, Jhanae Davis, and Destiny Jones, Jalen Holzworth, Brooklyn Hurd, —and he experienced profound joy as “PaPa” to Kamryn Crosby, truly providing the desire and strength to battle his cancer fiercely. The bond they shared filled his heart in a way that words can hardly capture. And blessed to see great grandkids, Paris & Trey Hurd, Jhream and Jhremi Davis.

Louis dearly loved his family. He was preceded in death by his eldest brother, Robert Jones. He is survived by his beloved siblings: Emma Jones, his cherished little sister; Rosemary Atterberry; Darlene Atterberry; Curtis Atterberry; and Laverne Atterberry.

He also leaves behind a large and loving extended family, including nephews Robert Jones Jr., Early Atterberry II, David, Terivian, and Donald Davis, and nieces Cassandra, Alfreda Atterberry, Angie Atterberry, Nichole Atterberry, Christina Atterberry, Dorcus Atterberry, and Doranda Atterberry, along with many more great nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Outside of work, Louis embraced life fully. He loved fishing, boating, camping, and traveling. For nearly ten years, we lived our dream as full-time RVers, exploring uncharted roads across the United States in our beloved 40-foot motorhome, affectionately named Mistyride. Those years on the open road—filled with discovery, quiet conversations, and shared sunsets—were among the happiest of his life and mine.

Louis also found joy in DIY home renovations, gardening, cooking, writing, and meaningful conversation. He was deeply engaged with the world and prided himself on being knowledgeable about local, national, and global politics, especially issues connected to progressive values, justice, and education. He believed knowledge carried responsibility and he lived that belief daily.

To me, Louis was strong yet gentle, commanding yet compassionate. He faced life—and illness—with courage, dignity, and ultimately, grace. Though my heart is forever changed by his absence, I am endlessly grateful for the love we shared, the life we built, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Louis W. Jones Sr. will be remembered for his leadership, intellect, generosity, curiosity, and love—a legacy that lives on through his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Forever my husband.

Forever my love,

— Edith Jones