James "Mike" Jones

Mike Jones (aka "Mikey," "Jonesy," "Big Apple," "Bones," "Dad" and "Papaw" to those who loved him) was the most beloved, generous, stubborn and funny guy the world has ever known. He was born on October 2, 1952, to James and Lena Jones. He was a lifelong resident of Kingsport and a graduate of Dobyns Bennett High School. He attended Darthula Baptist Church as health permitted. He was a loving husband, father, papaw and a great friend. He had an impact on everyone with his quick wit and wicked sense of humor. He always gave countless lectures (whether his children wanted to hear them or not) along with endless amounts of advice and words of wisdom and encouragement. There was never a dull moment when Mike was around, as he was always telling wild stories, crazy jokes that sometimes only he laughed at, and things we like to call "Mike-isms!!" His phone calls just to say "I love you" will be missed desperately, as well as his presence in our lives. His love for his wife, children and grandchildren was immeasurable.

On Monday, January 29, 2018, Mike received a call from his granddaughter Addison Tate requesting a play date in heaven. He accepted this request with open arms for not just the play date, but also for a much anticipated reunion with his parents, James and Lena Jones; and 3 sisters, Shirley Crawford, Loretta McClellan and Sondra Meade.

Mike was a car enthusiast and is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Susan Jones (because he happened to be driving "the most beautiful car she had ever laid her eyes on" the night they met and they both took a chance); 2 daughters, Melissa Pauley and husband, Bill, and Rachel Tate and fiancé, Curtis Hagy; and son, Jared Jones; 6 grandchildren, Laura Bortz, Dylan Jones, Emma and Isabella Pauley, and Drew and Ryleigh Tate; brother, Stanley Jones and wife, Shirley; mother-in-law, Marian Neale; sisters-in-law, Laura Kellon (Kenny), Dede Hash, and Donna Hash; brothers-in-law, Edwin Neale, and Joey Fisher (Deanna); several nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins and friends; and 2 very special friends, Dennis Arnold and Harold Hooven.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 3, 2018, from 2:00pm - 4:00pm at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. A memorial service will immediately follow with Pastor Layton Bentley officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908, or to the charity of one's choice.