Lewis Ray Jones
- Feb 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 25
1943 ~ 2026
Date of Death: February 13, 2026
In profound sadness, the staff of Veasley Funeral Home & Cremations, Inc. want to express our sincere condolences to the Jones Family. Lewis' earthly temple is now resting in the care of Rowell-Parish Mortuary. Revelations 21:4 says, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death; nor sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away." Be assured that in the days ahead you will surely gain strength from the memories of Lewis Ray Jones.
Sincerely,
Derrick Veasley ~ Director
Henry Veasley ~ Director
Pastor E.C. Maltbia ~ Chaplain
Lewis Ray Jones, lovingly known as “Donut,” was born on June 18, 1943, and passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, at the age of 82.
He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1961 and immediately answered the call to serve his country. From 1961 to 1963, he proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Newport News, earning an honorable discharge for his service. Following his time in the Navy, he continued his education at Westark Community College, where he earned his associate’s degree.
Donut dedicated over 30 years of hard work to Rheem Manufacturing Company before retiring. Known for his strong work ethic and dependability, he took great pride in providing for his family and building a life grounded in integrity and perseverance.
Outside of work, Donut was an avid sports fan who spent many cherished years on the baseball field. He loved the game and the friendships that came with it. He could often be found cheering passionately for the Northside Grizzlies and the Arkansas Razorbacks, rarely missing an opportunity to show his support.
He was also a true connoisseur of the grill, famous among family and friends for his mouthwatering ribs. Gatherings were never complete without Donut at the grill, sharing stories, laughter, and a plate piled high with his signature barbecue.
Lewis was preceded in death by his parents, Hollis Jr. and Hazel Jones; his brother, Melvin Jones; and his beloved son, Antonio “Tony” Jones.
He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Lois Jones; his sons, Ray Keaton (Theresa) and Lorenzo (Keri) Jones; his grandchildren, Ray Keaton II, Tony Jones (Alex Gershon), Terrell Keaton, and MacKenzie Jones; and his treasured great-granddaughter, Ella Gershon-Jones. He is also survived by his siblings, Dorothy (James) Adams and Carl Jones; special cousins, Betty Hall, Mary Enoch, and Theodore (Annie) Bishop; nephews Ron (Jessica) Johnson and Maurice Johnson; his devoted caregiver and friend, Helen Gordon; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.
Lewis will be remembered for his warm heart, steadfast presence, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the stories shared, the lessons taught, and the many lives he touched.
As scriptures tells us and Lewis’s life shows, “Faith does not make things easy it makes them possible.” Luke 1:37
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Walk through visitation for family and friends will be held Friday February 20, 2026; 10:00am to 6:00pm 611 North 9th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901.
Celebration of life service will be Saturday February 21, 2026, 2:00pm New Covenant International Christian Center 4400 North N Street Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904.
Burial and final resting place: Fort Smith National Cemetery 522 Garland Ave., Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901 on Monday February 23, 2026, 11:00am.
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