Donald Jones

Donald Jones

May 09, 1942 – October 04, 2024

Donald Eugene Jones was born May 9, 1949, in Tucumcari, New Mexico to parents Henry and Naomi Jones. Donald passed away unexpectedly on October 4, 2024. He married Conchita Nillas Jones on December 7, 1984, and the two were together until his passing.

Donald was a devout husband and provider, a great older brother, and a fun uncle and cousin. Donny was a retired Educator from Las Cruces Public Schools and New Mexico State University. Mr. Jones enjoyed walking. He and Conchita would power walk the mall on a daily basis where he greeted everyone with his beautiful smile. Donny was a beautiful person, a beautiful soul, a sharp dressed man, and a knowledgeable historian. 

Donny was a devoted member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church since December 24, 1974. Mr. Jones was an active member in the church as a Lay Reader, Chalice Bearer, and sang in the Church Choir religiously.

Mr. Jones was a dedicated teacher at Las Cruces High School for 41 years. His teaching career nobly defined his life’s work and is how most will remember him. Mr. Jones was fluent in Spanish. Mr. Jones’ students adored him, as he inspired them to believe in themselves and achieve their goals. Mr. Jones made each and every student feel welcome in his classes. Donald’s presence had a deeply personal and lasting impact on each and every person who had the honor of knowing him. His students fondly called him, “Mr. Yonis.” 

Donald was preceded in death by his father Henry Jones, and mother Naomi Minner Jones.

He is survived by his wife, Conchita Jones; his sister, Kari Jones; his niece, Rusty Keller; grandnephew, James Bradley Oase and wife, Sarah; grand nephew, Justin Keller; grand nephew, Joshua Keller and wife, Arielle; cousin, Robert Wellborn; and other extended relatives.

Services will be held at St. Andrews Episcopal Church 518 Alameda Blvd, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005 on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 10:00am. Reception will follow at St. Andrews Parish Hall.