Lena Jones' Obituary
Lena Ann Jones, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, at the age of 84, at University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024, at St. Luke United Methodist Church at 12:00 PM. Visitation will be from 11-12PM Friday at the church. Services will be live streamed at 12:00 PM through the HT May & Son Funeral Home Facebook page and can be found at https://www.facebook.com/htmayfuneralhome.
Born on January 5, 1940, to Sammie M. Nichols Sr. and Anna Lee Petty Nichols, Lena grew up in Armstrong, MO. She graduated from Armstrong High School in 1957 and later pursued computer studies at IBM. With a passion for helping others, Lena began her career as a CNA at the University of Missouri Hospital Clinics. Her dedication and work ethic propelled her to become an instrument technician, a role she held with pride for 34 years before retiring.
Lena’s life was filled with love, service, and faith. A devoted member of her church Wright Temple COGIC where she served as its secretary for many years and remained active in the congregation. She also loved watching football and attending church services, where her presence brought joy and wisdom to those around her.
She was preceded in death by her parents Sammie Nichols Sr. and Anna Lee Nichols, her brother Sammy M. Nichols Jr. and her first husband, Calvin Elbert; her second husband, James Melvin Jones; her grandson Tremaine Jones and her granddaughter Angela Perry.
Lena leaves to cherish her memory her siblings, Evangelist Missionary Dianna L. Morris (Emeritus Superintendent W.T. Morris) of Knob Noster, MO, and Joseph Ward Nichols of New Franklin, MO., her special friend Jesse Williams,
Her love and legacy continue through her children:
• Virginia Gabrielle Radcliffe (Darryl) of Lynwood, IL
• Darrin Jones (Tammy) of Columbia, MO
• Mia Jones-Corpening (Melvin) of Lebanon, TN
She was a proud grandmother to:
• Quatonya Collins
• Calvin McHenry (Ketoria)
• Trellis Jones
• Kanesha Jennings
• Tashauna Purvis (Eric Jr.)
• Jeremy Jones
• Brianna Thompson
• Antwon Radcliffe
• Jada David
Her great-grandchildren, who brought endless joy to her life, include Taylor Collins, Ralph “RJ” Perry Jr., Eric “Tre” Purvis III, McKenzie Whitehead, Brantley McHenry, Harmony Jones, Jeremy Jones Jr., Tarryn Jones, Cylas Jones, Addison Purvis, Chase McHenry, Austin G. McHenry, Samantha Green, Sebastian Green, and Shawn Green.
Lena will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her boundless love for her family, and her dedication to helping others. She leaves behind a legacy of service, strength, and warmth that will inspire generations to come.
What’s your fondest memory of Lena?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lena?
Share a story where Lena's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lena you’ll never forget.
How did Lena make you smile?
