On March 14, 2025 God's angel closed the eyes of Michael Ray Jones. Michael went to his final resting place and God whispered "peace be thine," taking him to his heavenly home.

Michael was born on November 25, 1952 in Washington D.C. to Chester and Dora (Johnson) Jones. His parents instilled a love of learning, music, family, and God. This was reflected in the many interests and activities in which Michael engaged in throughout his life. He became a member of Second Baptist Church of Moorestown, NJ at a young age and participated in Sunday School, the Trustee Board, and the Young Adult Choir. Throughout his youth, Michael was also active with Boy Scouts, Soccer, Band, Madrigals, New Jersey All-State Chorus, and School Government, where he served as Class President.

Michael majored in Economics at Princeton University and was active in Princeton's Gospel Ensemble. Between his sophomore and junior years, he met Janell Smith. They dated throughout college and were united in marriage in 1982. Moving to Pittsburgh to begin their new life, Michael and Janell became the proud parents, of Brittany Suzanne Jones in 1989.

Michael loved being an active member of Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, especially his time in the Fine Arts Ministry. Some of his favorite activities included the Male Chorus' community outreach in nursing homes, senior centers, prisons, and churches and the Chorus' trips to regional gospel workshops.

Michael had a distinguished career as a systems and sales engineer in the telecommunications industry, where he worked for over 35 years. He received numerous awards for his contributions to the sale of corporate telephony systems. However, he most enjoyed engaging with colleagues and clients and meeting the challenges of an ever-evolving industry.

He was a man of many passions outside of family, church, and work. He loved all things Philadelphia, especially the Eagles! An avid runner and music lover, he competed in Cleveland and Pittsburgh's 5K and 10 K races and amassed a diverse collection of albums. Anecdotes from family and friends capture his love of history and storytelling, as well as his kindness, and generosity. Often referred to as "the family historian," he loved recounting favorite family pastimes and stories passed down from elders. However, Michael's storytelling was not reserved for family. He delighted in sharing laughter and memories with the many dear friends he formed in childhood, college, church, and career.

Michael is predeceased by his father, Chester; brother Chester Jr.; sister, Renee; brother-in-law, Theodore; and great-niece, Wynter. Michael leaves to mourn his wife of 42 years, Janell Smith-Jones; daughter, Brittany Jones; mother, Dora Jones; brothers, Gregory Jones and Richard Jones; sisters-in-law, Victoria Jones, Christine Jones, and Azadeh Amirsadri; godson, David Williams; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends. In lieu of flowers, contributions to The ALS Association, in Michael's honor, would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be directed to the Western PA Chapter by a notation on the check or website. The Association's mailing and website addresses are listed below.

Check donations: The ALS Association, 1300 Wilson Blvd. Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22209
Electronic.donations:https://secure2.convio.net/alsa/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app20026a?idb=775023942&df_id=43364&mfc_pref=T&43364.donation=form1&NONCE_TOKEN=BA995A67E9DCEF12FB75DFB49E3F77F1&s_src=donatebutton&43364_donation=form1
Acknowledgement

We wish to extend our sincere thanks for the many prayers, words of comfort, support, and other expressions of caring and concern during the illness and passing of our beloved Michael.