William Earl Jones Sr
June 22, 1941 - February 28, 2016
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William Earl Jones Sr
June 22, 1941 - February 28, 2016
Obituary
William “Willie” Jones Sr. (ChaT-ex ‘T), former Chairman, Vice Chairman and Council Member of the Lummi Indian Business Council for 30 years (1977-2007) passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, February 28, 2016.
Willie was born June 22, 1941. He is preceded in death by his parents Earl and Mildred Jones and his daughter Evelyn Jones (baby). He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Josephine Jones, children: Rosanna (Wendell) Jones, William (Regina) Jones Jr., Julianne (Delfred) Jones; 14 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and his sister, Rosalie (Ralph) Scott.
Willie is known of his commitment to education and was instrumental in the creation of the Lummi Nation High School and Northwest Indian College, where he earned an Honorary Degree in Native Science with a Concentration in Indigenous Self-Determination and Education. Willie was also a strong national leader in tribal sovereignty and self-governance and was an active community member in Whatcom County. He was a canoe skipper for many years and carried the canoe philosophy in all aspects of life.
The family invites all of his friends and colleagues to pay tribute to his legacy. Funeral Services will be Thursday, March 3rd at 6:00pm and Friday, March 4th at 10:30am, both at the Lummi Nation Community Building, Wex Liem: 2334 Lummi View Drive, Bellingham, WA 98226.
Funeral Mass
- Date & Time: March 4, 2016 (12:00 AM)
- Venue: Wexliem Community Building
- Location: 2100 Lummi View Rd Bellingham, WA 98226 - (Get Directions)
Prayer Service
- Date & Time: March 3, 2016 (12:00 AM)
- Venue: Wexliem Community Building
- Location: 2100 Lummi View Rd Bellingham, WA 98226 - (Get Directions)
12 responses to William Earl Jones Sr
Deena Cordier Rosario says:
February 28, 2016
Josie and Family, With heartfelt sympathy and condolences to all of you. Willie was an honorable man, he was truly concerned for the future of his Tribal Family. May all his past efforts be just as effective today through his children, grandchildren and extended family. Prayers for all of you. Deena E. Cordier Rosario, Kyle, South Dakota
Grace Ann Byrd says:
February 28, 2016
Condolences are sent on a upwind from Nisqually to Lummi Nation. I stand with you….always….
Love,
Grace Ann Byrd, Nisqually Tribal Member
Julia Ortiz says:
February 28, 2016
Thank you uncle Willie for all your service and vision for the Lummi nation! Thank you for your visioning process and canoe teachings thanks to your family for sharing you! RIP
Pete Martin, Jr. says:
February 28, 2016
I am heartbroken to hear of my dear friend, Willie, walking into the forest. During my time in Bellingham, he was instrumental in getting me to write for the sports section of the Lummi Newspaper, eventually becoming the Editor. We developed a strong friendship during that time, dogging his steps during the Boldt Decision. Willie was a good basketball player, playing against him while I was in the Lummi Agricultural School. He was also known as a ‘flashy boxer’ during his ‘heyday.’ It was a real pleasure & an honor to have this wonderful individual as a friend and I shall miss him. I wish to convey my most sincere condolences to his wife, Josie & her children, and will say prayers of comfort for you.
Your friend,
Pete Martin, Jr.
Kake, Ak
Ramona Menish says:
February 28, 2016
My heart goes out to the Lummi Nation and Willie’s wonderful family as he continues on his journey. We have lost a wonderful leader and family man.It is truly a sad day but also filled with hope. He left a lasting and enduring legacy.