Jerome Jones Sr. AKA Roney, 60, of Portsmouth, VA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family in the comfort of his home, on February 26, 2023. Born April 11, 1962, Jerome was the fourth child of the late Wilbert Jones and Odell Jones (whom he affectionately called “Little Legs.”).
Jerome graduated from Portsmouth’s Manor High School in 1980. He developed his skills at various places of employment over time, spending the last 22 years as a Senior Lead Supervisor at Nash-Finch Warehouse in Norfolk, VA. Jerome was a beloved member of New Berean Baptist Church in Portsmouth, VA, where he enjoyed singing in the choir, serving in the Ushers’ Ministry, and teaching Sunday School.
Jerome’s passing will leave a lasting hole in our hearts that can never be filled because he filled our lives with so much. To know Jerome is to know he loved his family, football, fine clothing…and food. He would spoil his family rotten with love, and his sense of humor was always on display as he enjoyed coming up with witty (and appropriate!) nicknames for everyone. The love Jerome had for his family was matched only by his wide, trademark smile and infectious laugh that you were sure to hear. Even in his final days, he dashed that reassuring smile, letting everyone know that he would be okay.
As the unofficial hype man for the Washington Commanders football team, you could count on Jerome to be decked out from head to toe in the team colors, regardless of the team’s wins or losses. Fine clothing was a part of his persona as Jerome took specific care to make sure he was the best dressed in every situation, always. And, finally, you must know that Jerome’s love language was food. It was how he showed love and how he received love – and if he loved you, he definitely was going to make sure you fixed yourself a plate for the moment AND a plate to go!
Jerome is survived by his devoted wife and partner of 39 years, Michele Jones; daughter Jala Sykes (Karream), and son Jerome Jones, Jr. (India); stepchildren Ebony Evans and Michael Thomas; grandchildren Maliya Evans, Dominic Evans Jr., Destinee Evans, and granddaughter in-LOVE Monce Thornton; siblings Freda Jones, Wilbert Jones Jr., Alvin Jones (Paula), and Samuel Jones (June); mother Odell Jones; mother-in-law Loretta Brooks; sister-in-law Theresa Rivers, and brothers-in-law Keith Thomas (Sharon), Mark White (Robin), and Don Thomas. Jerome also leaves to mourn his many incredibly loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The family would like to give a heartfelt thanks to the Chesapeake Regional Hospice Care team for their invaluable care during Jerome’s transition. We are beyond grateful to family and friends who reached out through visits, phone calls, and text messages to show love and support during this difficult time. Your words of comfort and your care will never be forgotten.
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