Robert Jones Obituary

Hackettstown, N.J. - Robert C. Jones, Sr., 91, longtime Chester resident, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2024 after a brief illness. Born on April 21, 1933 to J. Wheelington Jones and Caroline Fouracre Jones in Middletown, Delaware, he grew up in New Jersey as the second of four brothers.

A vital resident of Chester for over 50 years, he later found community at Heath Village where he led a full and active life until his passing.

Bob met Helen Kossow at Roxbury High School. They married in 1955 and raised their family in Chester. His devotion to his family was evident in everything he did.

A dedicated educator, Bob earned both bachelor's and master's degrees from Rutgers University. He spent 31 years teaching seventh and eighth-grade science in Chester at Williamson and Black River Middle School.

A devoted community member, Bob held leadership positions within the Chester 50+ Club. He was recognized by the Mayor of Chester Township for his service to the Senior Citizens of Chester, particularly his over two-decade commitment to the Recreation Committee. He was also cited by the NJ Legislature for his volunteer work, and inducted into the Hackettstown Senior Hall of Fame. He was a dedicated member of the Community Presbyterian Church for over 67 years, serving as a deacon and elder. Always ready to lend a hand and to volunteer, Bob was known to be charitable, dependable, steadfast and practical.

A man of diverse interests, Bob was an avid bowler, bocce player, gardener, genealogist, and traveler. He bowled in the Chester Men's League for over 50 years, achieving the coveted 300 game. He had a lifelong love of gardening and took great pride in managing the Heath Village Community Garden. His love for travel led him and his family on countless adventures in the US and abroad. He was also known for his bread baking, sharing loaves with family and friends.

Bob is survived by his wife of 69 years, Helen; his children Suebeth (Joe) Baumgartner, Robert Jr, Caroline Marchese and Kerrin (Mike) Medrano; grandchildren, Cari & Kristy Baumgartner, Marissa, Sarah & Brianna Jones, Zander Medrano and Pasquale Marchese; great-grandchildren Helena, Clarence and Vance.

A memorial service will be held at Community Presbyterian Church in Chester on September 21, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. In memory of Bob, donations may be made to The Heath Village Employee Appreciation Fund or The Heath Village Friendship Fund, 430 Schooley's Mountain Rd., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. www.heathvillage.com