On Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, after a lengthy stay in the hospital battling pneumonia, the Lord called Loyal Collins Jones home at the age of 75. He missed his 76th birthday by six days. He is preceded in death by his parents, John Walter and Mary Agnes (Collins) Jones, all but one sibling, his youngest son Lloyd Collins Jones, and the love of his life, his childhood sweetheart and beautiful wife of 48 years, Sharon Kay (Brinker) Jones.

Loyal was born in Charleston, Arkansas, grew up outside of Lavaca on Highway 96 North, and was a graduate of Lavaca High School. As a young boy he went to the small country Baptist Church on Highway 96 North just past the Boys Ranch Rd. He knew the bible so well as a young boy that many who truly knew him called him the "Little Preacher." He grew into a very handsome man and always said how lucky he was to have married mama as she was the most beautiful women inside and out that he had ever met. He was a Vietnam Veteran and prior to his retirement he worked for the City of Lavaca and was a greenskeeper for the Fianna Hills Country Club in Fort Smith. He loved long distance running, canoeing, hiking, camping, playing chess, deer hunting, and making wine, of which he won a few awards for his wines. Ironically, he never drank and relied on others to taste test for him. He had a huge heart for dogs and had a hard time not bringing home every dog he saw at the dog shelter. At one time he had as many as six dogs. After the passing of the love of his life, Sharon Kay (Brinker) Jones, he eventually rededicated his life to Jesus and expressed his longing to be reunited with his loved ones in heaven. His final moments were spent with close family and friends with his passing being quiet, peaceful and a sweet aroma in the air.

He is survived by two children, seven grandchildren, three great grandchildren and one sibling. A daughter, Janet (Jones) Carpenter and husband Carl Carpenter; a grandson, Ryan Evans and wife Marlie, and three great-grandchild with the fourth on the way; a granddaughter, Ariana Evans; grandsons, Collin Evans, Jayke Evans and Kieran Carpenter; a son, Loyal Scott Jones and wife Souksy, a grandson, Loyal Conrod Jones, and granddaughter, Dao Valiant Jones; a brother Billy Ralph Jones, and his daughter Kelley & husband Brandon Cates; a nephew, John David Jones; a cousin April Gipson; and friend Jerry Bond. There are too many family members and friends to list them all.

He loved all of his family and friends very much and his family and friends loved him. He was a good husband, father, and friend. He will be missed by all who truly knew him.

The family held a private service on Tuesday, January 27th.

Daddy, may you have peace in heaven with mama and Jesus. We will always love you both and see you in heaven someday. The accusations from the enemy have been silenced by the blood of Jesus. James 4:11; Romans 12:19; and Matthew 12:36

For anyone who has not yet accepted Jesus, please do so while there is still time. Isaiah 55:6 Whosever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13 and Acts 2:21

Repent of your sins when you call upon the name of the Lord. Matthew 4:17; Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19; 2 Peter 3:9. If it is physically possible to get baptized, then do so while you still can. Acts 2:38; Romans 6:4. If you are unable to do so physically, do not lose faith in the promises of salvation for whoever calls upon the name of the Lord "SHALL BE SAVED." It is NEVER too late as the enemy would have you to believe. Unharden your heart and have faith, believe in Jesus! There is no shame in following Jesus! The only shame would be when one stands before the one true living God on judgement day after rejecting Jesus. Daniel 12:2; Matthew 25; John 3:18; and Romans 8:1.

Do not let the gossipers who spread lies of the enemy burden your hearts nor try to convince you that you are unworthy! Even the thief on the cross was saved. Luke 23. Gossipers and liars will always try to hurt the children of God and try to prevent others from seeking Jesus. They will face the wrath of God soon enough. Romans 14:11-13

Test everything that claims to be of God as many are not of God. 1 John 4:1-6. Even the enemy can appear as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14.

Prayer is a warrior's tool! It is truly a strength to stand strong with Jesus and not a weakness. James 5:15-16. Do not be ashamed to study the Word of God, remembering the original texts for the New Testament were written in Greek and Old Testament were written in Hebrew and keep consideration for the root words. 2 Timothy 2:15.

You can do it! Be strong! Put on the full Armor of God and seek Jesus while you still can for tomorrow is promised to no one. Ephesians 6:10-14

May God Almighty bless all who read this message and especially for anyone who accepts Jesus afterwards.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home and Flower Shop in Charleston.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com