Richard Jones

Richard (Ricky) Jones was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to the late Mr. Jones and late Aleathia Mae Jones. His mother was instrumental in shaping his life, instilling in him the importance of loving his family and living his life to the fullest. From a very young age, Ricky discovered an enduring love for music. While he mastered many instruments, from the piano to the guitar, it was the bass guitar that brought Ricky immeasurable joy and became the soundtrack of his life. Ricky shared his talents widely, playing with his beloved bass with bands and solo at countless venues and engaging audiences from all walks of life with his contagious charisma. He was also a devoted self-taught teacher, patiently showing many how to read music and play instruments. His natural ear for music was undoubtedly a gift from God, a gift Ricky proudly used to glorify the Lord, as he faithfully served as the base player at his beloved church, Crossroads Mennonite Church in Lancaster PA. Growing up in the heart of North Philadelphia, Ricky attended schools in the School District of Philadelphia. Upon graduating high school, he answered the call to serve his country, entering the United States Army where he proudly served from 1975 until he was honorably discharged in 1978. Ricky accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and was never ashamed of the gospel. He was proud to share how God had literally saved his life, blessing him with chance after chance. In addition to his natural family whom he loved dearly, he cherished his spiritual family at Crossroads Mennonite Church, and he was profoundly grateful for their steadfast love and unwavering support. Ricky was a Philadelphia Eagles fanatic. His commitment to the Birds was legendary; he established a vast collection of Eagles paraphernalia, and his clothes, apartment, and even his vehicles were always adorned with the team’s logo. He followed the statistics like a book, and it was impossible to have a conversation with him without receiving a real-time update about his favorite team. One of the highlights of his life was witnessing his beloved Eagles win the Super Bowl in 2018 and again in 2025. A true movie enthusiast, Ricky loved going to the theater, often enjoying full-course meals there even before dining experiences were expanded. He was loud, passionate, and the life of the party. Participating in Richard Allen Public Housing annual events where he created lifelong memories with friends that he had since his early childhood was a highlight for Ricky for many years. Ricky had a way about him and his voice alone added light to every room he entered. His style of dress and his smooth moves on the dance floor were as big and bold as his stature. He was also known as Roadrunner—and if you ever drove with him, you understood why that name was so fitting; he drove as if he owned the road. Ricky took pride in everything he put his hands to. While he could be stubborn, even as his health declined, he fought his sickness with strong and steady determination. Before transitioning, Ricky vigorously shared that he was looking for something in the house for his beloved mother, a sign that he was at peace joining her. He also expressed that he wanted everyone to know that he loved them. Ricky was extremely grateful to have been blessed to live a full life. Richard (Ricky) Jones was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his twin brother, Ronald, who transitioned as a toddler, and his niece, Taheera Green. Richard (Ricky) Jones leaves to cherish his loving memory his brother, Douglas (Khalif) Jones; a special niece, Daaiyah Green; his special cousin, Loretta (Peanut) Alexander; his beloved Pastor and friend, Richard Rutter; two dear friends, and Daniel and Yvonne Cabrol; four nephews: Leonard Green, Christopher Green, Dorian Betts, and Khalif Jones; his niece, Latrice Coleman; and a host of great nieces, great nephews, family, and friends. God Took Him to His Loving Home God saw him getting tired, a cure was not to be. He wrapped him in his loving arms and whispered ‘Come with me.’ He suffered much in silence, his spirit did not bend. He faced his pain with courage, until the very end. He tried so hard to stay with us but his fight was not in vain, God took him to His loving home and freed him from the pain. -Author Unknown I Have A Place in Heaven Please don't sing sad songs for me, Forget your grief and fears, For I am in a perfect place Away from pain and tears. It's far away from hunger And hurt and want and pride, I have a place in Heaven With the Master at my side. My life on earth was very good, As earthly life can go, But Paradise is so much more than anyone can know. My heart is filled with happiness And sweet rejoicing, too. To walk with God is perfect peace, A joy forever new. –Author Unknown Expression of Gratitude We truly appreciate the outpouring of prayers, love, comfort and support shown to us during this difficult time. Thank God for each one of you. Pastor Rick Rutter Crossroads Mennonite Church 401 Church Street Lancaster, PA 17602 Professional Services By The Groffs Family Funeral Home, 528 W. Orange Street, Lancaster, PA 17603 Burial Site Washington Crossing National Cemetery 830 Highland Rd Newtown, PA 18940

Richard Jones

November 1, 2025