Robert Jones

Robert Jones, 86, passed away peacefully at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, CT on October 26, 2025. The illness he endured over the past 7 months greatly restricted his activities, but there is no doubt that he is now happily dancing in Heaven with his wife, Arthena, who pre-deceased him in 2010.

Bob was born on January 20, 1939, in Rockaway Beach, NY to the late John Joseph and Anna (Tulke) Jones. He enjoyed body surfing in the ocean waves during his young childhood. After the early passing of his father, his mother courageously relocated the family to upstate NY. Although he missed the beach, Bob embraced country life and the routines of farm living. At just 17, he enlisted in the US Navy and served for 4 years. He was a Radio Operator aboard the USS Alcor and was also stationed in Morocco, North Africa.

He worked at IBM in both Fishkill and Poughkeepsie, NY for 31 years as a Personnel Counselor. He then went on to work for 21 years at the Stanfordville Machine and Manufacturing Company as Director of Human Resources.

He married the love of his life, Arthena Kemp Jones, in 1960. They had a loving and adventurous marriage of 50 years. Together they worked hard as caretakers of a 100-acre estate. During their free time they enjoyed going out dancing and traveling. Providing community support was also a priority for them. Together they served as Youth Group Leaders and Deacons at the United Church of Christ and were members of the Elks and Lions Club. Bob was also a Boy Scout Troop Leader.

Bob enjoyed spending time with his daughter, Sherri, and son-in-law, Peter. He moved to CT in 2015 to be closer to them. He bravely carved out a new life for himself by joining his church choir, the Middlesex Vocal Chords, the local Lions, refreshing his guitar skills and learning to play the piano and banjo. Bob was an avid bird watcher and prided himself on providing nutrition to attract hummingbirds and orioles. His love of military aviation led him to membership in Collings Aviation and Commemorative Air Force. He was thrilled to have flown in a B17 Flying Fortress, a P51 Mustang, a B25 Mitchell Bomber, a B29 Superfortress and a B24 Liberator.

In addition to his daughter and son-in-law, he is survived by his brothers Larry (Anita) and Virgil and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by infant daughter, Althea; his sisters Mary Ann, Florence and Carol; and his brothers John, Art, and Warren.

His daughter and son-in-law extend their gratitude to his caregiver from Visiting Angels, as well as the staff at the Windham Cancer Center and Middlesex Hospital. There will be a private graveside service in Stanfordville, New York and a celebration of life in the spring of 2026.