Margaret Marie Jones

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Margaret Marie Jones, a beloved sister, aunt, and friend, who transitioned peacefully to her heavenly home on December 12, 2024. Born to Royster Ellis Jones and Mattie Hunter in Raleigh, North Carolina, Margaret’s life was stamped from the beginning with a remarkable commitment to faith, family, education, and community service. She leaves behind her brother, Ellis Royster Jones, niece, Ellis Deborah Hodges, nephew, William Benjamin Jones (Pola) and a host of great nieces, nephews and friends.

Margaret’s academic journey began at the historic North Carolina Agricultural and Technical (A&T) College. That nourishing environment enabled Margaret to learn and grow. Whether it was the Academic Leadership Club, Vice President and Dean of Pledges of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, or the A&T Women’s Basketball Team, Margaret still graduated with the distinction of “Magna Cum Laude” in Biology in the graduating class of 1956. That same year, Margaret enlisted in the then Woman’s Air Force and received the Spirit of Freedom Award given to the most outstanding trainee of Flight 12 of the 422-training squadron at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Margaret Marie Jones was also a basketball star for the United States Air Force Women’s Basketball Team. These early achievements laid the foundation for a lifetime of excellence and service.

In 1960, Margaret’s journey took her to California where she continued her pursuit of knowledge by earning a State certified license as a medical laboratory technician. Word quickly got around Loma-Linda Veterans Administration Hospital that Margaret would be a prime candidate for the hospital’s first in-house Registered Nursing Program. Just like at A&T University, her hard work and dedication culminated in her graduation as the most outstanding student in her class, a testament to her unwavering commitment to caring for others. Margaret’s contributions to the hospital did not fade away, she received two subsequent awards from Loma-Linda Hospital recognizing her exceptional service and dedication to her patients and colleagues.

Community service, the love of her brother Ellis, and a strong faith in God defined Margaret’s life. She dedicated over 30 years of serving as a member of the 16th Street Seventh-Day Adventist Church and during that time served as the choir director, where her spirit of humility and service shone brightly. Margaret’s love for music and her commitment to her brother, church family and community touched the lives of many, inspiring those around her to embrace their own faith and service.

As we remember Margaret, we reflect on her favorite question: “Who, I say, who is gonna make my bed when I pass away?” This playful inquiry embodies her spirit – one of warmth, humor, and an enduring connection to those she loved. Margaret Marie Jones leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Margaret. You will be dearly missed but forever remembered in our hearts. Now, we ask you. Who is going to make Margaret’s bed now that she has passed away? Who, we ask, Who? 

The viewing and funeral service will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the 16th Street Seventh-Day Adventist Church located at 1601 W. 16th Street San Bernardino, CA 92411. Burial will follow at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA   92518 on Monday, December 30, 2024 at 1:30pm. The repast will be held at the church following the graveside service.