Edward Lee Jones

Edward Lee Jones, affectionately known as “Pops” or “Grandpops,” was born to the late Leana and Raymond Jones on August 1, 1935, in Rockingham, N.C. He departed this life on the evening of August 12, 2016, at the Washington Adventist Hospital in Takoma Park, MD. He received his formal education in the Rockingham public school system. Edward grew up being very active in school and church. He played basketball, sang in the choral and was on the annual yearbook staff at Rockingham High School. His senior yearbook ‘Will and Testament’ statement read “He who controls himself is greater than he that takes a city” (from Prov. 16:32). At Rockingham’s Temple Church Of God In Christ (C.O.G.I.C.), he was a member of a family singing group and sang in and directed several choirs. He also directed the state youth choir; and under his dynamic leadership, the choir gained statewide and national recognition. After graduating from high school, Edward migrated to Washington, D.C. He joined the Temple Church Of God In Christ (currently Kelsey Temple C.O.G.I.C.) pastored by the late Bishop Samuel Kelsey. On Ed’s (nickname) first job, he met and married his first wife, the late Evelyn Cobb. From that union, came five beautiful daughters. Later he became the father of three more precious children. In 1978, Edward met and married Sandra Turner and became a dad to her four children. Though Edward was one who kept to himself, his personality was infectious, and many people—young and old—gravitated to him. He made a positive impact on those around him, especially young people. He loved to share wisdom gained from his life experiences, hoping to deter young people from making costly mistakes that could negatively affect them and their future. Edward leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Sandra; ten children, Gina (Lawrence), Edwina, Kim, Lisa, Edward, Jr., Leeann (Shawn), Sanya (Jimmy), Ivory III (Gidget), Andre (Bridgette), and Katja (Darrell); 27 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren; one sister Marion; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Tributes

Edward Lee Jones

August 1, 1935 - August 12, 2016