Charles Henry Jones, Jr., 81, of Decatur, IL, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026 following a long illness. Born on February 26, 1944, in Clarksdale, MS, Charles was the beloved first born son of the late Charles and Lucretia Jones. He graduated from Higgins High School in Clarksdale in 1962 and attended Jackson State University in Jackson, MS, earning his Bachelor’s degree. He received his Masters’ degree from Millikin University in Decatur, IL. He later joined the United States Army, stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in MO. Following his discharge from the service, Charles began his teaching career in science, at Mound Middle School in Decatur, IL, where he was promoted to the position of Principal. He held this position until the time of his retirement.
Charles loved everything about life. He loved the Lord and served as a Trustee at New Salem Baptist Church in Decatur. He loved his family, his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, to which he was a 60-year member. He loved teaching and being a role model for his students. He loved his wife of 50 years, Gwen Sullivan Jones.
Charles is survived by his wife, Gwen, four sisters, Lois Jones of Chicago, IL, Elsa Williams of McDonough, GA, Etta Turner of Clarksdale, MS and Lucretia Agee of Mt. Arlington, NJ and a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and great-great nephews. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Kenneth, Wendell, Harold and Michael; and his aunt, Christine J. Curry.
