Wayne Richard Jones

Wayne Richard “Buddy” Jones, 55, of Denver, North Carolina died on September 26, 2016. Born December 5, 1960 in McKeesport, PA. He leaves to cherish his memory, his son, Alex Jones; granddaughter, Chloe Maloy; sisters, Laura Bealonis, and Janene Birdsong; brother in law, David Birdsong; nephews, Michael Birdsong, Christopher Jones, Timmy and Jimmy Jennings; nieces, Bethany Strong and Julie Funk. In addition to family, he leaves behind Patricia Conard Jones, ex-wife of 22 years, and current girlfriend, Debbie Homce. He was preceded in death by his parents Curtis Jones and Evelyn Strong Jones, brother David Jones, sister Sandy Jennings, and niece Tiffany Jones. Buddy knew no stranger and was a loving father, brother, PawPaw and friend to all. 

Shortly after being born in Steelers Country, Buddy moved to the Denver, North Carolina area, where his family put down roots. He was a member and attended Salem United Methodist Church in Denver, North Carolina where he sang in the choir along with the Him's of Praise, men’s singing group. Buddy officiated all sports, played softball for years, he loved music and fishing. He officiated softball from the optimist level all the way to the state high school level. The pinnacle of his career was when he was honored with officiating a state high school championship fast-pitch game, yet none of this was greater than his true passion; playing softball. His all-time favorite team was his church team at New Covenant United Methodist Church, where the team was ranked as high as #2 in the nation. He was known for hitting the long ball and his knowledge of the game.  

Buddy was a high energy, outgoing, passionate man who loved his church, family, and friends. He enjoyed volunteering at any and all church functions, and anything youth related. He truly believed that the youth was the heartbeat of the church, because without the kids, there would be no church.

The family will accept friends and family on Friday, September 30 from 5:00-8:00p.m. at Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home at 16901 Old Statesville Rd. Huntersville, North Carolina 28078. A celebration of Buddy’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 1, with a light luncheon to follow at Salem United Methodist Church. 378 North Pilot Knob Rd. Denver, North Carolina 28037.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to your local church’s youth group organization.

Rest In Peace Pop, you will be forever loved, and forever missed. – Alex

Friends may leave condolences at www.raymerfh.com