Billy Joe Jones

Billy (Bill) Joe Jones, 89, of Waco, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2026. Born on November 11, 1936, in Gatesville, Texas, Bill lived a life marked by his service to his country, a strong work ethic, and a genuine appreciation for the outdoors.

Bill graduated from Waco High School in 1954 and went on to attend Texas A&M University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1958. While at Texas A&M, he was a proud member of the Corps of Cadets, an experience that reflected the discipline, commitment, and sense of responsibility that would remain hallmarks of his life.

Following college, Bill served in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1961. He served as a navigator and achieved the rank of Captain. His military service was an important part of his life and reflected his lifelong commitment to serving something greater than himself.

On August 18, 1961, Bill married Mary Ann Jones. Together, they built a life centered around family and countless memories. Bill spent his professional career as a Quality Control Engineer, working with General Tire and later Weyerhaeuser. He took great pride in his work and was known for his knowledge, dependability, and attention to detail.

Outside of work, Bill enjoyed the things that brought him closest to the outdoors and allowed him to work with his hands. He loved hunting, fishing, and woodworking. He also had a gift for storytelling, particularly when it came to his many memorable rattlesnake stories. Those stories, often told with a smile and a well-timed embellishment, were part of what made Bill so memorable to the people who knew him.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Hollis V. Jones and Isabel Boyd Jones; his beloved wife, Mary Ann Jones of 63 years; and his daughter, Julie Passman.

He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Fedro and her husband, Jeff; grandchildren, Paisleigh Coan and her husband, Patrick, and Joshua Fedro and his wife, Jade; and three great-grandchildren, Mailo, Merritt, and Nora.

To his family, Bill was a good provider, a teacher, and the person they could always count on to fix just about anything. He shared his knowledge freely, taught by example, and had a way of making things work when others might have given up. Those lessons, along with the stories and memories he created over the years, will remain with his family for generations to come.

Bill’s life was one of service, hard work, and a love for the outdoors. He will be remembered by all who knew him.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Waco Memorial Park, 6623 I-35, Waco, TX 76706.