Lindell F. Jones

Our beloved Lindell Ford Jones was born on February 23, 1941 to the late Elnora Ford Jones in Miller County Texarkana, Arkansas. A few years later, the family moved north to Michigan. Lindell known as “Sonny” to his family, grew up in the historic Conant Gardens area of Detroit, Michigan alongside his two siblings and a host of aunts, uncles and extended family.

Early in life, Lindell was introduced to Christ and accepted him as Lord and Savior. He held fond memories of the time they spent in church each week together as a family. At age 18, Lindell enlisted in the United States Army where he would go on to have a long and enduring career serving his country abroad in Germany and Vietnam as well as state-side in varies roles such as drill sergeant, firefighter and military police. In 1967, Lindell was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his “outstandingly meritorious service” during the Vietnam war. After retiring from active duty, he went on to have a career in civil service with the US Government for over thirty years.  All of which is a testament to the integrity, character and work ethic of Lindell Jones.

In the midst of his military career, Lindell met the love of his life, Lee Esther Townsend of Clarksville, Tennessee. As Lindell tells it, he was in love at first sight. He knew he found someone special, a help-mate and partner for life. Lindell and Lee Esther were united in holy matrimony on March 17, 1973. Alongside his wife and son Lamonte, Lindell enjoyed living and traveling as a military family to many parts of the U.S. from California to Virginia. Their beautiful union which spanned nearly 50 years was the cornerstone of the life and legacy they built together. They impacted many lives together and served as an inspiration for what love, friendship, and commitment can produce when nurtured.

Out of the love he shared with Lee Esther, their family continued to grow.  In addition to being a father and husband, Lindell was the proud grandpa to Shonta Phelps and LaTisha Eley (daughters of Regina Eley). Lindell was a fierce protector, listening ear, champion, cheerleader, and voice of reason for his girls. Whether it was attending a band performance, teaching you how to drive, helping with college move-in or just sliding a few extra dollars into their bank account, Lindell was always there for his family. Strong, consistent, and loving. He extended the same love and care to his great-grandchildren, Araiya and Alijah Lindell, his namesake.  Lindell also served as a father figure, role model and mentor to many. His quiet nature was no match for his huge heart! He led his family with grace and fortitude and in turn his family has been blessed many times over by his goodness and strength.

Lindell lived such a full and vibrant life with many interests in addition to his family life and service in the military. He was a longtime member of the Grands Fraternal Order of Police and Prince Hall Masonic Lodge in Kentucky where he rose in rank to Master Mason. Lindell also had the distinguished honor of being named a Kentucky Colonel which is the highest title of honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky. He was active in church, serving as Deacon and a Trustee for several years. He was a Kentucky Wildcats fan through and through and loved any team from Michigan especially the Detroit Lions. Lindell enjoyed spending time with family, listening to Motown classics, keeping up with politics and news and he loved a good plate of barbeque. He had a hearty joy-filled laugh, the most protective hugs, and unshakeable faith. A man of honor, integrity, and love. Lindell Ford Jones was one for the ages.

Lindell passed peacefully on the morning of Wednesday March 1, 2023.  He was preceded in death by his loving mother Elnora and beautiful wife Lee Esther. His life and legacy will continue through his sister Eileen Walker (Michigan) and brother David Allen Jones, Jr. (Texas) as well as through his grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, family, friends, mason brothers and fellow veterans.

Lindell Jones was a man of honorable character and action.  His courage and steadfast resolve to serve his family, his church, his community, and his country is worthy of admiration. We believe God was pleased with Lindell’s life of service. Well done, thy good and faithful servant. Rest well Brother Jones, rest well!

Viewing Friday, March 10, 2023 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral service 12:00p.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church. Interment with full military honors at Kentucky Veteran Cemetery West, Hopkinsville, Kentucky.