Royce Edgar Jones was born July 11, 1940, in Lutkin, Texas. He was the 500th baby delivered by the midwife. Royce had an adventurous childhood playing in the woods around Houston with his friend Tom Harris and others. Royce enlisted in the Marines at 17 and was stationed in Hawaii for 3 years, where he honorably served his country. After returning to Texas, he married Barbara Dodson; they had two sons and a daughter before her passing in 1973.
In 1980, Royce relocated to Wyoming. It was there he met Judy Dean on a blind date in April. They were married July 11, 1980.
Royce had many careers throughout his lifetime. He was a farrier and even owned a horse ranch. He was a cook, bartender and restaurant owner. Ultimately, he settled on becoming a surveyor working for construction companies. During his surveying career, he traveled to many different places. His favorite was Twin Falls, Idaho, where he was able to use a picnic table overlooking Shoshone Falls to spread his blueprints upon. In addition, he partnered with his son driving trucks and hauling cars.
He also embarked on many side projects before and after retirement including beautiful stained glass works of art, poetry and other literary endeavors. He even sold the rights of a song to a gospel group. He was awarded his real estate license after taking the test only once. In 2010, Royce was involved in the process of starting a Calvary Chapel in Evanston. He served as the secretary/treasurer and elder. He also enjoyed gardening, hunting, camping and pursuing knowledge, especially about the Bible.
He loved to spend time with family and loved to tell stories and make corny jokes. His first love was God, his second was family and his third was his country.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Judy Dean Jones; sons, Gary S. (Tammy) Jones, Jeffrey K. (Kristi) Jones and Michael D. (Crystal) Jones; and daughters, Kelly D. (Todd) Jones Wilkerson, Terra D. (Rolland) Daly Price. He was also survived by 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Royce was preceded in death by his father, Edgar Matthew Jones; his mother, Wilma Arlene Davis Jones; his sister, LaWanna Joy Loftin; and his grandson, Clayton Jones.
There will be a celebration of life held at the Evanston Machine Shop on June 26, at 1 p.m.
Light food and refreshments will be served.
