Richard Jones

Derby - Jones, Richard L. July 4, 1925 to September 17, 2021

Richard was devoted to Jesus Christ and His authentic historical church that has 2,000 years under the same management.

He was a native of Cambridge, where his father (James Henry) was the Depot Agent and Telegrapher for Santa Fe Railroad.

During WWII, he served as a Seaboard Navy Gunner on the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. Essex in the South Pacific Theater and in the Korean War.

Richard graduated from college three times, and earned his MS at Miami University. He was employed by Derby Schools. Richard was an outstanding, spirited, and motivating, teacher, primarily teaching 6th grade. He was named Derby Teacher of The Year in 1961. He taught 1,000 students. He also built 19 houses in Derby as a Contractor.

He was a Pilot and logged over 3500 hrs, navigating 2 continents as PIC, pilot in command. He piloted 11 trips to Bolivia and one to Columbia. For Cessna Aircraft, he ferried 324 planes to New Orleans solo.

He wrote and published the Book "The Magic in You."

Richard is survived by his wife of 74 years, Mary Ellen (Thomas) Jones. They raised 8 children in Derby, Benny R., Modesto CA, Carol A. Estes, St Louis, Mark A (Thany), Douglass, KS, Michael L., Wichita, Joseph M., Wichita., Polly A., Derby, and Paul R. (Paula), Wichita. He is also survived by a daughter-in-law, Robin, Ark City; nine grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, a son, James H; son-in-law, Donald M. Estes; and a granddaughter Dawn Ann Estes.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday September 22, 2021, at St Mary's Catholic Church, 2300 E Meadowlark Blvd, Derby. Burial will follow at El Paso Cemetery.