Ronald Lewis Jones, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at his home in Spanish Fork, Utah, on March 27, 2025, at the age of 80.

Ron was born on October 25, 1944, in San Jose, California, to Ethel and Lewis Jones. He grew up in North Hollywood, California, where he graduated from North Hollywood High School. Following his graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the U.S. Navy. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Cimarron, a Cimarron-class fleet replenishment oiler, and participated in operations during the Cuban Missile Crisis, spending his 18th birthday on deck, as well as during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge in 1964.

Following his military service, Ron pursued higher education at Brigham Young University, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Recreation Management. On June 12, 1975, he was sealed for time and all eternity to his sweetheart, Cheryl Orton, in the Ogden Utah Temple.

Ron dedicated his professional life to serving others. He worked for the Boy Scouts of America in Ogden, the greater St. George area, and throughout Southern and Northern California, helping to shape the lives of young men through scouting. Later, he joined Utah State University as the director of the Festival of the American West, where he shared his love of history through Civil War reenactments, Mountain Man Rendezvous, Pioneer History, and portrayals of Native American (Navajo) culture. He concluded his career at Brigham Young University as an Assistant Director of Student Leadership at BYUSA, where he mentored and inspired countless students.

Ron was passionate about family history and was a devoted temple patron throughout his life. He and Cheryl served a Church Educational System mission in Pullman, Washington, for 18 months, strengthening the faith and lives of those they served.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Jones, and their six children: Jennifer Sharp (Joseph), Julie Hancock (David), Kristin Jones, Jeff Jones (Natalie), Robbie Jones (Misti), and Stephen Jones (DaRae). He was a cherished grandfather to 21 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Darlene VonBank (Larry), and many extended family members and dear friends.

Ron will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love of history, and his dedication to family and service. His legacy of kindness, wisdom, and devotion will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at Red Pines Ward building, 2981 E. 1660 S., Spanish Fork, UT on Thursday April 3, 2025 at 11:00am, with a viewing preceding the service at 9:30am – 10:30am. Interment will follow at Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

The funeral services for Ronald Jones will be streamed live. Please return to his memorial page shortly before 11:00 am on Thursday, April 3, 2025 and click on the link below.

Ronald Jones Livestream Broadcast