Sharon Ann Jones

Sharon Ann Jones, 85, of Belleville, IL, born Monday, May 2, 1938, in East St. Louis, IL, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023.

She was preceded in death by her:

• Loving husband: Gary W. Jones
• Parents: James and Ella (nee Derr) Thomas
• Son: Timothy Jones

Sharon is survived by her:

• Children:
  • Thomas and Tracy (nee Browne) Jones
  • Tamalyn Jones
  • Fuad and Teresa (nee Jones) Azman
• Grandchildren
  • Nick and Sarah (nee Jones) Ruder
  • Michael and Amanda (nee Jones) Hoffmann
  • Khaled and Danah (nee Hulaibah) Azman
  • Blake and Joanna (nee Tipsword) Jones
  • Hannah Azman
  • Rayan Azman
• Great-grandchildren
  • Willa and Lynleigh Ruder
  • Emerson and Caden Hoffmann
  • Omar, Faisal, Rakan, and Saad Azman
• Siblings
  • Gregory (Linda) Thomas
  • Sheila (Phil) James
• Beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins

After marrying Gary, the couple went on many adventures together, moving from state to state across the country. Sharon devoted her life to raising her four children while also earning her education degree from SIUE. Sharon’s greatest joys in life were her husband, four children, and grand and great-grandchildren, but a close second was teaching her students. She thoroughly enjoyed starting her career at the high school level, teaching business courses and placing students in vocational jobs. She was then transferred to the 6th grade and finished her career after many fulfilling years being with her younger students.

Her gift was making people feel like they were a part of her family. The doors of her home were always open for a quick snack, a hug or even a place to live. She found joy connecting with those she loved through a deep conversation, a book, a home cooked meal, or a game night.

Sharon leaves a legacy of love, learning, and family, which will be carried on by all who loved her.

Memorials: Donations can be made in Sharon’s honor to de Greeff Hospice House.

Services: There will be a Celebration of Life for Sharon on Sunday, January 7, 2024 from 1-5 pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 402 East Highway 50, O’Fallon, IL 62269. Please join the family in celebrating Sharon’s life.