Clinton Abner Jones

Clinton Abner Jones, 98, El Dorado Springs, passed away, Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Lake Stockton Healthcare Facility. Abner was born Sept. 13, 1926, to Harry and Samantha Jones of Stockton.

Abner loved farm life and shared stories of working on the farm with his dad where he learned the skills to become a successful farmer and cattleman. He was drafted to the Korean War where he proudly served his country from 1950-52.  Later in life, he participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, DC where he enjoyed visiting the Korean and other war memorials.

Abner met Mary Louise Griffin on a blind date. They were married on Feb. 17, 1953, and celebrated 72 happy years together, spending most of their life living on a farm south of El Dorado Springs. To this union, they were blessed with three children, Cathy Lugene, Carla Coleen and Craig Alan. Abner was the center of his family and a wonderful husband, dad and Papa. He loved his family, and it was quite evident in his words and actions. He showed his love to family and friends through his joking and ‘ribbing.’

Abner came to know the Lord when he was 70 years old at Fairview Community Church, Osiris, MO. He was a faithful member of this church for as long as he was physically able. He was baptized at a creek near Jerico Springs, MO, on a cold May Sunday. Despite the cold, it was a glorious day.

Abner and Mary Lou spent the last 21 months residing at Lake Stockton Healthcare Facility. They spent many hours together and Ab enjoyed reading, listening to music and watching TV. He was so proud to be a veteran and was always ready to participate in the nursing home activities involving the VFW or other veterans’ groups. They recently presented him with a jacket with his name and military branch and he wore it proudly.

Abner is survived by his loving wife, Mary Lou; three children: Cathy (Dave) Ketterman, Nixa, MO, Carla (Doug) Gilbert, El Dorado Springs, and Craig (Shawn) Jones, Kansas City, MO; six grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and brother, Jackie (Kathy) Jones, Stockton, MO.

Preceding Abner in death were his parents, Harry and Samantha; grandson, McKenzie Jones; and siblings: Rex, Tad, Sid and Audrey.

A service honoring Abner’s life was held on Saturday, March 22, at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home. Brent Bland was the minister. Burial with military honors followed at the Stockton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fairview Community Church in Osiris, MO.