Mr. Francis Donald Jones

Francis Donald Jones, also known as ‘Frank’ and ‘Grandpa,’ 84, of the Town of Niagara, NY, passed away on September 23, 2023 at his residence, while under the care of his family and Niagara Hospice. Born on November 26, 1938 in Chateaugay, NY, he was the son of the late James Arthur and Margery (Mills) Jones. On September 15, 1979, Frank married Cindy Jacobs. Mr. Jones was raised and attended schools in Chateaugay, NY and came to the local area in early 1970’s. Frank proudly served in the United States Army from January 9,1958, until his honorable discharge and retirement on June 30, 1979. He was stationed in Germany twice and served three tours in Viet Nam. He was an Infantryman for the majority of his career. His last assignment was as a Recruiter both in Olean, NY and in Niagara Falls. He earned his discharge from reserve obligation on February 6, 1988 as a highly decorated Master Sergeant. While serving, Mr. Jones was awarded numerous medals, including a Silver Star, Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Frank later retired from the United States Postal Service, where he was employed as a postal carrier, until he retired after 22 years. Mr. Jones was a proud member of the American Legion. Frank was an avid softball player and coach into his 70’s. He was a strong supporter and participant in the Glory Be to Kids Softball Tournament for over 40 years. He enjoyed hunting and loved college basketball. In his younger years, Mr. Jones raced snowmobiles. In addition to his beloved wife, Frank is survived by children, Lisa (Dale) Walton, Casey Jones, Jill Jones, Stephanie Jones, and Melissa Jones; grandchildren, Miranda Wilson, Mackenzie Wilson, Gabrielle Beebe, Poppy Dupuis, and Elliott Lathrop; siblings, Bobby Jones, Nancy (late Frank) Koti, Diane (Walter) Podwirny, Jean (late Gary) Fall and Judy Earl and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Frank was predeceased by brothers and sisters, Jimmy (late Marilyn) Jones, Peggy (late Sym) Beckman, Emma (late Russell) Tolosky, Mary (late Sherm) Duquette, Kate (late Kenny) O’Neill, Anna (late Warren) Post, Bill (late Mary Lou) Jones, Helen (late Doug) Goodman, David (late Marilyn) Jones and Jerry (Barbie) Jones. The family will be present to receive friends on Wednesday, September 27 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Otto Redanz Funeral Home, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. A memorial reception will follow visitation at 7 p.m. at LaSalle Yacht Club, 73 South 68th Street, Niagara Falls. Frank will be taken back to his hometown for services. Calling hours will be held at the Chateaugay Funeral Home on Friday, September 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 30 at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, 132 West Main Street, Chateaugay, NY. Prayers of committal and interment will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Chateaugay. A memorial luncheon will be held afterwards at the American Legion Post 875, 80 West Main Street, Chateaugay. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation and/or Glory Be To Kids.

Mr. Francis Donald Jones

November 26, 1938 - September 23, 2023