William Geer Jones, Jr.

William Geer Jones, Jr. was born in Brunswick, Georgia on August 17, 1946, to the union of the late William Geer Jones, Sr. and the late Birdie Hitchcock. He was raised by his loving grandmother, the late Rosa Lee Richardson of Albany, Georgia. In his early teenage years, he was nurtured and cared for in the home of his father and second mother, the late Elizabeth Jones.

He was educated in the Dougherty County School System,graduating from Monroe High School in 1965. After graduation, he attended Albany State College (University) where he began his music career. "Punkin," as he was affectionately called, bonded with several very talented student musicians/friends; from this friendship, The Velvetones band was formed. The group became widely known as they traveled to many cities and states performing in nightclubs and at musical festivals. Later, the group became known as the Third World Band-gaining notoriety and acclaim as a music legend in Albany and the Southeast.

William gave his life to Christ at an early age and later recorded a gospel album, Hear My Plea, which also featured Rhema. In the midst of his seasoned years, his love for singing blossomed as he melodiously spread his love of Christ through his music. He was an exceptionally talented individual who gave his all to the Glory of God.

Punkin heard the call of his Heavenly Father on April 20, 2020, and transitioned from this physical body to his immortal body at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. In addition to his parents and grandparents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Sandra Jones, Arah Blue, and Michael Jones.

William is survived by his wife, Patricia Jones; his children, Anthony (Delanie) Jones of Atlanta, GA, Shimese (Kamau) Kambui of Jacksonville, FL, Afeefah (Johnny) Burroughs of Leesburg, GA, Romonzo Hill of Thomasville, GA, Kevin (Lou) Jones of Knoxville,TN, and Desi (Stephanie) Daniels of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; siblings, Glynnis Sibley of Douglasville, GA, Wyndolyn (Charles) Edwards of Albany, GA, Larry (Denise) Blue of St. Petersburg, FL, Irdell Key of Bridgeport, CT, and Arlene Blue; his former wife and friend, Beulah Joyce Jones of Albany, GA; sixteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will all remember him fondly.

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