Willie Lee Jones

Willie Lee Jones was born on September 20, 1923, in Terrell County (Bronwood, Georgia) to the late Eddie Lee Jones and Willie Bell Morman Jones.

His early education began in the public-school systems of Terrell County, Georgia. However, third grade would be as far as he would go, because he then began working to assist his family.

After moving to Albany, Georgia, he began working at Nilo Plantation as a butler for the late Mr. and Mrs. John Olin. For 42 years, he proudly worked at Nilo and played a crucial role in its daily operations.  Nothing slipped by without him knowing and everyone relied on him to manage and oversee everything.

Willie also worked part-time for many years for Dr. and Mrs. John Bateman.  Through his work with Dr. and Mrs. John Bateman, his talent for landscaping and gardening became well-known, highlighting another aspect of his expertise and passion. Willie’s pride in growing beautiful tomatoes, peppers, and butter lettuce speaks volumes about his dedication and skill in gardening.

He met the love of his life, Elease Evelyn Cooper, and the couple married on September 3, 1956. They shared their lives for 68 years, until his death. To this union, three daughters were born.

Upon retiring, Willie was able to enjoy more of his favorite hobbies – fishing and gardening. He loved going out on his boat with his fishing buddies and returning home with a cooler full of fresh fish. When you visited his home, you never left without something from his garden or the kitchen.

Willie joined Bethel AME Church of Albany under the leadership of the Rev. E. P. Yorpp, where he was a faithful member of Bethel for many years. At Bethel, he served as a member of the Steward Board and the oldest living member of the church. During the recent AME Church Quadrennial Conference held in Columbus Ohio, he was honored and recognized by the Sixth Episcopal District for reaching a remarkable milestone of 100 years of age.

While at home with his family by his side, God called him to eternal rest on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, nine days from celebrating 101 years.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 68 years, Elease Cooper Jones; his children, Tynese Jones, Dedra Jones Evans (Greg), Donna Jones Hall (Keith), and a granddaughter, LeKenya Nesbitt, who he raised as his own. Also, left to cherish his memories are daughters, Annie Leah Jones, Alice Ruth Jones Hendricks, Willa Jones Merritt, and Sandra Jones Paschal; thirteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. In addition, he is survived by a sister, Willie Mae Gadson; sisters-in-law, Macy Owens, and Dorothy Henry Sutton; a loving and devoted brother-in-law, Delta Leroy Hinson (Gail); a devoted cousin, Rochell Harris, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

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