Obituary of COLONEL SAMUEL ALBERT JONES JR.

Colonel Samuel Albert Jones Jr. passed away Thursday, March 13, 2014 at St. Clare's Hospital in Lakewood, Washington. Sam was born in Atlanta, Georgia on March 26, 1923. Colonel Sam Jones is survived by his children: Alberto Jones, Mirella Reeves, Mara Ferrari, Carlo Jones and Loredana Fitzpatrick; 16 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Sam was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mina Ferrari Jones and his son, Renato Enrico Ferrari Jones. In 1942 Col Jones began a very long and enduring career in the U.S. Army. Sam served in the U.S. Army for over 60 years. Enlisted at age 17, Sam worked hard and attained the respectable rank Colonel. Sam was remarkable, dedicated and honorable soldier who defended our country in WWII and the Korean Wars. He met his bride, Mina in WWII while stationed in Italy, and they married in 1947. Sam served a full term on Active Duty, retired, then continued his career in the U.S. Army Reserve (Fort Lawton, WA) where he achieved the rank of Colonel and served in the position of Deputy Chief of Staff - Personnel for the 124 U.S Army Reserve Command. He was a decorated soldier and iconic "lifer". He was a proud, sacrificial soldier to say the very least. Sam loved his family and friends; the epitome of a caring soul and found passion in helping others. He enjoyed to travel, the orchestra, having fun, and to host a great party! His motto: "Never sweat the small stuff. No job is ever too big if you have the will to do it". For Sam, age never compromised his goal. A long time season ticket holder for the Seahawks, his 2014 lottery win landed him in the stands to attend the XXVIII Super Bowl. His last checked box on his bucket list. He is truly legendary! Viewing will be held at 10:00 AM prior to the Funeral Mass which will be celebrated 11:00 AM, Monday, March 24, 2014 at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church. Entombment to follow at Calvary Cloisters. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warriors www.uso.org/donate or the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org/donate. Arrangements by Piper-Morley with Oakwood Hill 253-472-3353.