Mr. James Walter Jones, 78, of Charleston, passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at CAMC Memorial Division.
James was a 1966 graduate of Poca High School and a proud United States Navy veteran, having served his country during the Vietnam War. He dedicated many years of service to his community and career, retiring from 3M Corporation in Rock Branch. James was one of the original Putnam County EMTs, serving from 1976 through the 1980s, and was deeply committed to helping others in times of need. He also served as former Police Chief for both Bancroft and Poca, was a former firefighter with the Bancroft Fire Department, and was a former member of St. Albans American Legion Post 73.
In his free time, James had a passion for bowling and enjoyed traveling out of state to participate in tournaments, creating many lasting friendships along the way.
James is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Ellen Jones.
He is survived by his loving companion and best friend, Irene Williams of Charleston; his children, Jamie (Sherrie) Jones of Clendenin, Tara (Steve) Farrow of Hometown, Ashley (Earl) Whittington of St. Albans, Christian (Skylar) Jones of Ocala, Florida, Drew Markham of Ocala, Florida, and Madison Markham of Ocala, Florida; 13 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his brothers, Ernie (Sharon) Jones of Poca, Dale Jones of Culloden, and William “Wimpy” (Linda) Jones of Poca; his sisters, Patty Winter of Black Betsy, Sonja (Reggie) McCallister Seacrist of Poca, Phyllis McCallister Atkinson of Black Betsy, Leella (Allen) McCallister Wyant of Black Betsy, and Myra Sariwatta of Thailand; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family would like to say a special thank you to Dr. Wasfi and the nurses, especially Kaitlyn and Samantha on the CPICU floor at CAMC Memorial for the wonderful care given to James.
A tribute to the life of James will be held at 7:00 PM on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Delbert Hawley officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, prior to the service.
A private burial will follow at Donel C. Kinnard State Veterans Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the funeral home to assist with expenses.
