William Rowland Jones

2 Timothy 4:7

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

William Rowland "Bill" Jones, age 77, passed away on February 25, 2025, in Canton, MI. Born on August 5, 1947, in Cranks, Kentucky, Bill lived a life marked by dedication to his country, his work, and most of all, his family.

He was a loving and devoted husband to the late Sherry Jones (Gray), with whom he shared 55 cherished years. They raised two children: daughter, Sherry Lockhart (Troy) and son Bill Jones Jr. (Dana). Bill was a proud Papaw to seven grandchildren—Jamison, Carly, Riley, Micah, Sarina, Addison, and Jack - whom he adored deeply. He never missed a chance to support them from the sidelines; whether it was on the field or in life, he was always their biggest cheerleader.

Bill served his country honorably as a United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal during the Vietnam War. His military service remained a source of pride throughout his life and was reflected in his continued involvement with the American Legion and VFW.

He worked at Detroit Diesel for 35 years before retiring and later joined General Motors, where he celebrated his final retirement in 2008. Additionally, he spent a couple of months each summer working at Michigan International Speedway. He was a huge NASCAR fan, and when Roger Penske approached him to work at MIS, he was more than thrilled to accept.

He is remembered by his sister Diane Middleton, brothers Harold Jones and Marvin Jones, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bill now joins those who passed before him: his beloved wife Sherry; mother Mary Jones (Napier); father Charles Jones; sister Margie Hall; and brothers Nick Jones and Roger Jones.

Bill was a devoted member of Northridge Church in Plymouth, Michigan. He also held membership with Lola Valley Lodge #583 as a Master Mason, reflecting his values of integrity and brotherhood.

An avid outdoorsman, Bill found peace in nature through hunting and fishing. He had an enduring love for all things outdoors.

Military honors service will be held May 23, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Great Lakes National Cemetery located at 4200 Belford Rd., Holly, Michigan 48442.

The Jones family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Mann’s Family Funeral Home of Livonia for their thoughtful assistance in service arrangements and caring support.