"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him" Psalm 34:8

Elder Ernest Lee  Jones, the son of the late Deacon Samuel Lewis Jones Sr. and Mother Ida G. Crocker Jones, was born on December 4, 1952, and departed this life on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

He attended Sussex County High School and later embarked on a long career as an air tool maintenance and repair specialist at Newport News Shipyard, a Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) Division. He dedicated forty-two years before retiring in 2015.

Recognized as a community pillar, he was appointed to the Town of Waverly Planning Commission in 2015. He offered valuable advice and guidance to the Waverly community and local government officials until his health declined.

Ernest was a visionary entrepreneur whose journey began with the establishment of the Jones Brothers Mechanic Shop. Later, in partnership with his wife, Netra, he proudly owned E&N Trailer Park, the Waverly Fitness Center, and various other properties. Among his many ventures, nothing brought him greater fulfillment than operating Jones Wrecker Service, where he could often be seen behind the wheel of his cherished red flatbed truck, which had "God is God" printed on the rear windshield.

He dedicated his life to Christ early on and remained a shining example of faith in action. His unwavering commitment to his family, community, and church was evident as he served faithfully in various roles, including Sunday School Teacher, Deacon, and Chair of the Trustee Board. His spirit of service inspired everyone who knew him. Whether through his heartfelt sermons, soulful singing, or jamming on his bass guitar to his favorite hymns, "I'm Still Here" and "God Is Up to Something," he shared his love for the Lord. His steadfast dedication led to his ordination into God's Kingdom in 2006. Afterward, he served as Elder Ernest Jones and the Assistant Pastor of Zion Hill Pentecostal Church of Christ Holiness until he transitioned from labor to rest.

Although his life journey may appear serious, Ernest found a way to maintain balance and joy. In his young adult years, he was an active member of the Van Club, played in the Evolution Band, and had a notable love for sweets that brought happiness to his days.

In 1990, he married his beloved wife, Netra R. Long. Their bond flourished over thirty-five years of holy matrimony, and they were blessed with three wonderful children: Rachel Robinson, Eric Stringfield, and Netra Shonte Jones. Many would agree that Ernest lived a life filled with blessings and grace, guided by his favorite scripture, "God is Good." Ernest fought well, kept his faith, and finished the race, and it is well with our souls.

In God's infinite wisdom and divine timing, our beloved Ernest was called from labor to reward on May 29, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Clinton Jones, son-in-law Marcel Robinson Jr., and sister, Evangelist Joan Wyche.

Ernest leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Netra R. Jones; three children, Rachel Robinson of MD., Eric Stringfield of Chesterfield, VA., and Netra Shonte Jones of Waverly, VA.; six grandchildren, Jade Stringfield,  Morgan Robinson, Justin Stringfield, Sydney Robinson, Gabrielle Jones, and Iris Charles-Stringfield;

four brothers, Samuel Jones Jr., Vernard Jones (Queen), Moses Jones (Robin) all of Waverly, VA., and  James Clary (Elonda) of Spring Grove, VA.; three sisters, Evangelist Alice Givens, Evangelist Jean Reynolds both of  Washington DC and Lenora Jones of Petersburg, VA.;  father-in-law, James Long of Detroit MI.; one brother-in-law, John Wyche of Waverly, VA; two sisters-in-law, Deaconess Vera Long-Pendelton of Detroit, MI, and Evangelist Dr. Miriam D. Edwards of Waverly, VA; and a host of nephews, nieces, other relatives, and great friends.

He was especially grateful for the unwavering support of his brothers, Moses Jones and James Clary, as well as his sister-in-law, Evangelist Dr. Miriam Edwards. He also expressed appreciation for his nephew, Julius Givens, and devoted friend, Marvin King. Additionally, he was thankful for the care provided by the staff at Virginia Commonwealth University, the James River Hospice Care Team, and the nurses Emma Harris, Crystal, and Yvette James. Ernest will be greatly missed!

Public Viewing will be 10:00am - 4:00pm Friday, June 6, 2025, at Peace Funeral Home, 237 Railroad Avenue, Waverly, Virginia. There will be a Vistation 6:00pm - 8:00pm Friday, June 6, 2025, at Zion Hill Holiness Church, 4424 Spring Branch Road, Waverly, Virginia.

A Celebration of Life will be 3:00pm Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Zion Hill Holiness Church, 4424 Spring Branch Road, Waverly, Virginia, Elder Angelo Scott, Eulogist.

Please keep the family uplifted in prayer.