Dan Jones Jr.

The sun rose on February 26, 1928, welcoming Dan and Mattie Jones’ first son, Dan Jones. He would carry his father’s name, legendary strut, and family legacy. He would become the younger brother of Flossie Mae and Mellonease and big brother to Roosevelt, Geraldine and Franklin “Bud”. As children, they would give their grandmother a run for her money, getting into all the mischief country living allowed. Dan was the first son and last surviving child of the original Jones clan. During the 1940’s, he would become a part of the “Great Migration”, leaving his hometown of Quincy, Florida, to move to New York, and eventually planted roots in Chester, Pennsylvania. Chester would bring Dan to the love of his life, Alice Elizabeth Ross. They married on April 9, 1951, solidifying the Jones’s roots up north, as two Jones Brothers, Dan and R.M., married the two Ross sisters, Alice and Grace. The couples would build businesses, families and grow in life and love. In his later years, time spent with Dan would include details of his time of service to our country in the Army. Serving during the Korean War, he was one of only 19 soldiers of a unit of over 200 to return home alive. He stands amongst many of America’s brave who are yet awaiting their due honor. You couldn’t deflate Dan’s chest after the birth of his son, Daniel “Dane” Gavin. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for Dane. The extra sparkle in his eye would come at the birth of his beloved granddaughter, Daneisha, whom he cared for and raised as his own. She in turn would bring the same glimmer for him. Poppop loved his “woman” creating a bond they would share forever. His eyes continued to beam with pride as he welcomed the boys, Dane and Shane into his heart and home. They could do no wrong and Poppop was there to support them in whatever they did. Dan was a wonderful father, grandfather to Daneisha, Dane, Shane and Aneesa and great-grandfather to Da’ani, Aaron Jr., Shane Jr. and Marlow. DAN JONES wasn’t just a name, it was a statement of strength, loyalty and love. Dan welcomed everyone he met, sharing his tall tales, war stories, and maybe a recently baked slice of pound cake. When you sat with Dan, you sat with history, learning of the wealth of the Deep South, and Black excellence, in spite of the rampant segregation and racism. He would proudly share stories of the entertainers and artists that visited The Ponytail, the bar he started with his brother, Roosevelt. After the bar’s closing, he would join R.M. at Phoenix Steel, as a steel roller. Dan could never really retire, so he joined the custodial staff of the Brandywine School District, serving the schools, staff, and students with love. When he entered into full retirement, the grandchildren, lottery, cars and racetrack didn’t keep him busy enough, so he devoted his Tuesdays to the Soup Kitchen at the F.D. Jones Center. Nobody could tell it better or cook it better than Dan. From the 200 block of Jeffrey Street to Jade Drive, Dan’s name would echo throughout the neighborhood. “Mr. Dan” was well loved and liked by all. Cherishing his memory in their hearts forever are his son, Dane; grandchildren, Daneisha (Aaron Sr.), Dane, Shane (Jaimee) and Aneesa; great grands, Da’ani, Aaron Jr., Shane Jr., and Marlow; sisters-in law, Grace Ross Jones and Gladys Jones; a special niece, Jennifer (Mark Sr.); and a host of nephews, nieces, and friends.

Dan Jones Jr.

February 26, 1928 - February 6, 2021