Earl Clinton Jones

Earl Clinton Jones of Pilot Knob, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home with family at his side on December 19, 2021, at the age of 86 years. He was born November 18, 1935, in Pine Lawn, Missouri, the son of the late William Clinton and Clara Myrtle (Wilkinson) Jones, and the younger brother of the late Doris Sanford and Kenneth Jones. Earl honorably served his country in the United States Army Reserves from December 1, 1957, through December 8, 1963. On September 17, 1960, he was united in marriage to Eileen Caroline Syberg who survives. Earl was devoted to Eileen and to his four children born from this union. More than a father, Earl was a loving Dad to Teresa Miller of Ironton, Missouri; Elizabeth Jones of St. Louis, Missouri; Timothy (Jennifer) Jones of St. Charles, Missouri; and Patricia Martin of Arcadia, Missouri. Earl was a member of St. Ferdinand Parish in Florissant, Missouri, for three decades. Earl settled into a career in aircraft and space shuttle production at McDonnell Douglas Aircraft in Hazelwood, Missouri, where he tirelessly worked for more than 30 years. Upon retirement in 1992, he traveled the country before contentedly settling down in 1999 in Pilot Knob, Missouri, minutes from Lake Killarney where he had honeymooned with his bride in 1960. Earl was also a member of Ste. Marie du Lac Catholic Church in Arcadia Valley. Earl was a lifelong fan of St. Louis Cardinals baseball. He also enjoyed collecting United States coin sets, appreciated music, and relished chocolates. Earl treasured time spent with family and friends, nieces and nephews, and other relatives. Above all, Earl cherished his wife, Eileen, of 61 years and he absolutely adored his six grandchildren: Benjamin Miller, Sarah Martin, Daniel Jones, Ryan Jones, Joshua Martin, and Cameron Jones. Throughout his life, Earl demonstrated the virtues of sacrifice, humility, loyalty, generosity, gratitude, and the kindness of a true gentleman. Now he rests in peace, reunited with his beloved parents, sister, and brother. As we remember him, let us carry on his legacy. Let us strive to always do our best. Do what is right. “Be Good.” Earl donated his body to medical research at Saint Louis University. His remains will be buried at Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri, in November 2022, at which time a memorial service will be held. The family requests that those who wish to express sympathy consider a donation to Kindred Hospice in St. Francois County, Missouri.