Jarrell Leonard Jones, 83, died March 12, 2026 at Bridge Haven Memory Care in Lawrence, KS.
Jarrell was born September 11, 1942 in Hoisington, KS, the son of Leonard P. and Ella M. Jones. He was the oldest of three children. He grew up near Beaver and graduated from Claflin High School. Jarrell attended Fort Hays State University for two years and then graduated from Salt City Business College in Hutchinson.
Jarrell then joined his family who had moved to Newton. There he began working at Hesston Manufacturing/Agco. He enjoyed traveling for Hesston demonstrating their farm equipment in many states. When he returned he worked in the shipping/parts department, later as crew chief. He worked his entire career at Agco and retired in 2006.
Jarrell joined the Air National Guard and then served in the United States Navy from March 19, 1968 to October 22, 1969. As a Seaman, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
On February 24, 1973, a 70 degree day, he married Mary K Schroeder. They enjoyed fifty three years of marriage. Together they raised their son Matthew. Jarrell enjoyed the many mini vacations to a number of states while they took Matt BMX bicycle racing.
Jarrell had a life long interest in history and was very knowledgeable about the Civil War and World War II, early military forts, Indian wars, and wagon trails. His passion was hunting for and collecting antiques. After retirement, he enjoyed meeting with his friends for morning coffee.
Jarrell loved to watch birds and wildlife. He even taught a squirrel to eat out of our hands. He dearly loved all the dogs and cats he and Mary owned. He could often be seen walking Maggie, his last dog, along 1st Street in Newton.
On May 1, 2021, Jarrell and Mary moved to Lawrence to be near Matt and his family.
He was a kind and compassionate man.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; son Matthew, daughter-in-law Heather and sweet granddaughter Mira, all of Lawrence. Other survivors include his two sisters, Verla Dickey, Odessa, MO; Cheryl Andrews, Blue Springs, MO; and three nieces and two nephews
He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard, and his mother, Ella; three brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law.
A funeral service will take place at 10:00 A.M. Monday, March 16, 2026 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, KS 66044. A graveside service will follow in the natural section of Oak Hill Cemetery, 1605 Oak Hill Ave, Lawrence.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association or Lawrence Humane Society sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, PO Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.
Livestream the service at https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/97BVPQ
Mary, sorry to hear about JJ. Played cards with him at break time at the Corp.
I loved my cousin Jarrell so much he was a great guy . And gun. When they moved . I missed them very much. Love ya Mary.
Sorry to hear of Jerrell’s passing.
Many good memories of listening to him talk of history and other stories. Watching Matt grow up across the street. May the many memories stay with you always.
Mary ~ I think of you & Jarrell often as I drive down E 1st past your former home. It was always a fun time running into you both as Jarrell always educated us on so many subjects. He knew a lot. His obituary shared a life well lived & I learned so much about him that I didn’t know. I’m glad you’re in Lawarence with Matt & family. Remember – memories are a wonderful blessing.
So sorry to hear of jarrell’s passing I can still see him out at the Russell county farm with dad. Such great memories Vivian
Such a beautiful obituary. Jarrell lived a full life. Thinking of your family during this time.
Mary – what a beautiful obituary- Jarrell really led a full, varied life. His gentle love of cats, dogs & birds makes me smile. May many good memories bring you comfort.
Mary, Deb and I are thinking of you and your family at this time of Jarrell’s passing. We have many good memories of antiques auctions around Newton in years past. Love and blessings to you. Years fly by. Memories remain.
Gini Johnson