Master Sergeant James Newton Jones, USAF, age 83, loving father and grandfather and partner to his forever companion Mary, passed away in the early morning hours on July 15.
James was born on October 20, 1938, in Martin County Indiana to Forest and Hazel Jones. He was raised in beautiful Tipton, Iowa. He was a star athlete. He joined the Air Force at the age of 19 and embarked upon an accomplished and adventurous military career. He traveled the world, served in Vietnam and across the country from Alaska to Utah. He settled and retired in Fallon, Nevada. After retiring from the Air Force in 1977, he got a job at the Nugget dealing blackjack and poker and would eventually become the casino manager for both the Nugget and Bonanza during the 1980’s. After his tenure at the Nugget and Bonanza, he got a job at
Headquarters bar dealing blackjack through the 1990’s until his final retirement.
James was a passionate and lifelong Chicago Cubs fan. This team was his passion until the end. When the Cubbies won the World Series in 2016, it may have been the best day in his life! As a father, when he wasn’t working, he was playing catch for hours and passing down his famous knuckle ball!
He was also a passionate golfer and spent many mornings, as the sun rose along the Carson River between the Cottonwood and Willow trees of the Fallon golf course.
James was fortunate to have found true love and faithful companionship with Mary Phillips, his partner of nearly 25 years.
James is survived by his son Scott Dean Jones, daughter-in-law Chaene Gusman Jones, grandchildren Rowan, Fallon, and Benjamin; his son Anthony Jones, daughter-in-law Mary Victoria Jones, grandchildren Victoria, Anthony II and Stephanie; his faithful love and companion Mary Phillips. James is also survived by his many siblings and their families.
James’ loving, feisty, enthusiastic, and cantankerous spirit lives on in each of us.