Richard P. Jones

Middletown, RI - Richard Dick Jones, 90, of 600 Valley Road, Middletown, RI, died on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at the John Clarke Nursing Home.Born in Port Dickinson, NY on April 9, 1921, he was the son of the late Frederick and Harriett Matson Jones. He is survived by his sister Carol Owen of Acworth, GA, and his children, Patricia Louise Eustice husband Gary of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Sandra Lynn Gifford husband Paul of Saratoga, CA, Richard Wayne Jones wife Annie of Newport, RI, Valerie Rae Jones of Pompano Beach, FL, Dawn Marie Jones of Endwell, NY, Stephen Alan Jones of Henderson, NV. Richard also left behind nine grandchildren.Dick served in the United States Army Air Corp 1942-1951 reaching the rank of Corporal. He attended Syracuse University to study mathematics and engineering. Richard then began a long career with IBM working in various roles related to manufacturing and quality. His natural inclination was to help people in need, and in his retirement, he was a dedicated volunteer for Meals on Wheels for over twenty years. In his youth, he was starting varsity quarterback for the North High Indians football team in Binghamton, NY and played basketball in the Army and softball in adult leagues. He was an avid bowler and collected several trophies. He was a loyal NY Yankee fan from an early age and throughout his life.He was musically inclined and enjoyed singing, playing his harmonica, and listening to big band music.Before moving to Middletown, RI, he was a member of the Johnson City Baptist Church in NY. He spent the last four years of his life at the John Clarke Retirement Center, surrounded by wonderful friends and a very caring staff. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2012 from 3 - 5PM Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. A memorial service will begin at 4:30PM. Donations in his memory may be made to the John Clarke Resident Activity Fund, or to the charity of your choice.