Obituary published on Legacy.com by Saunders-Dwyer Funeral Home - New Bedford on Nov. 3, 2024.
Edward "Eddie" Joseph Jones departed from this world on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at the age of 75 in East Providence, Rhode Island.
Born on September 29, 1949 in
New Bedford, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late John T. Jones and Mary Anna (Manzone) Jones. Eddie grew up in New Bedford, was a communicant of the former St. John the Baptist Church and attended New Bedford Schools.
Inspired by his uncles Richard and Eugene who both served in the Korean and Pacific theaters, Eddie decided to enlist in the United States Army at the age of 19. He ultimately became a combat solider during the Vietnam War.
From a young age, drawing was his greatest passion, especially the female form. Eddie possessed a remarkable gift for crafting exquisite and uplifting poetry and prose. His words danced off the page, full of life and emotion, and he never failed to express his gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon him by the Lord in every piece he created. Music was an essential part of his life, both listening and playing instruments. He attended the DeRossi School of Music where he learned to play the accordion. Later, he played piano by ear, tickling the ivories at every opportunity. In addition, he had a swag sense of style like no other. Eddie loved all things in nature. He enjoyed bicycling, swimming, fishing, and also loved to dance. He often could be found at Lincoln Park Ballroom, where crowds would gather around to watch him "get down".
He was a member of the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) in New Bedford and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow vets at holiday gatherings. During the Veterans Day parade last year, Mayor Mitchell shook his hand and thanked him for his service.
Eddie is survived by his three children; Myles A. Jones of New Bedford, Damon M. Jones and his wife, April, of Dartmouth, and Stacey M. Jones-Mendonca and her husband, Luis of New Bedford; his sister, Catherine A. Burton of Fairhaven; and his former wife and the mother of his children, Roberta (Farland) Bruce of New Bedford. He was also blessed with 6 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his brothers, Eugene and David Jones, and his grandson, Jeffrey L. Sylvia, Jr.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Eddie's memory may be made to Hasbro Children's Hospital, in honor of his 4 year old great-granddaughter, Zalee Rose Jones, who has been a regular patient there since birth. Checks may be mailed to Hasbro Children's / Rhode Island Hospital Foundation Development Office, P.O. Box H, Providence, RI 02901.
His Funeral Service will be held Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 10 AM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Wednesday from 4-7 PM. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
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