Deacon Richard Jones

Richard “Pah-Pah,” “Uncle Butch,” and “Doc” Jones Sr.

Sunrise: December 13, 1945 - Sunset: July 18, 2025

Richard “Pah-Pah,” “Uncle Butch,” and “Doc” Jones Sr. peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the age of 79. He departed this life at home, surrounded by the love of his devoted granddaughter, Yvonna R. McPhatter, and great-grandson, Yassir.

Born December 13, 1945, in Chance, Maryland, Richard was the beloved son of the late Preston and Annie Jones. He attended Somerset County public schools, where he met the love of his life, Gloria Lois Bivens-Jones. From high school sweethearts to lifelong partners, they married on June 19, 1965, and built a life anchored in faith, family, and unwavering love. From this union came two sons: the late Richard Allen “Bo Pete” Jones Jr., and Undray D. Jones.

In 1966, Richard and Gloria moved from Maryland to Newark, NJ, later settling in Plainfield, and eventually making their permanent home in Avenel in 1983.

A Life of Faith and Service

Richard’s faith walk was steady and sincere. He became a member of First Baptist Church of Carteret on February 20, 2005, and remained a faithful servant throughout the years. On December 11, 2016, he was ordained as a Deacon, and also served as Trustee and Church Treasurer. He gave his time and heart to the church’s growth and care. During major renovations like the baptismal pool and front steps, Deacon Jones and Deacon Anthony Howard often spent full days at the church—ensuring every detail was handled with care and excellence.

A Voice of Praise

Deacon Jones was a passionate worshipper with a soul-stirring voice that moved hearts. He sang in the Voices of First Baptist, the Male Chorus, and the Unity Chorus, and was formerly part of a local gospel quartet. When he led a song, the atmosphere shifted. His favorite hymns—“One Day at a Time,” “I’ve Been Redeemed,” and “Precious Lord, Take My Hand”—were the soundtrack of his walk with God.

Psalm 104:33 — “I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.”

A Man of Skill and Purpose

Known professionally as “Doc,” the Wall Doctor, Richard was a master taper and finisher. His hands repaired what was broken, and his life uplifted those around him. He was known not just for his skill, but for his quiet integrity and strong work ethic.

A Family Man with a Legacy of Love

He loved the simple joys: crab cakes, his wife’s beans and dumplings, fishing trips to Nags Head, and visits “down home” to Maryland. He cherished his family deeply and remained a steady, uplifting presence across generations.

His strength wasn’t loud, but it never wavered. It reached beyond his home and church into every space he entered.

Masonic Brotherhood

Richard also served with deep devotion and honor within the Masonic Brotherhood. His commitment and integrity were reflected in the many esteemed roles he held throughout his journey, including:

1st Grand Master of the At Most Wishful Garden State Grand Lodge (1990–1993)

Supreme President

Faithful servant in every subordinate house

Elevated with distinction to the 33rd Degree

He was revered not only as a Prior Grand Master, but as a true brother who upheld the highest principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth. Whether in the sanctuary or in the lodge, Richard remained rooted in honor, discipline, and a higher calling.

Well done, Good and Faithful Servant.

Above all else, Richard lived a life that pointed to Christ.

His legacy is not in titles or accolades, but in how he walked—humbly, consistently, and with a heart to serve.

In Loving Memory

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Preston and Annie Jones; his cherished wife, Gloria Jones (May 2024); and his beloved son, Richard Allen “Bo Pete” Jones Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory:

Loving and devoted son and daughter-in-love, Undray D. Jones and Tiffany L. Thomas-Jones

Grandchildren: Chari Jones, Chaney Cadet, Najah Thomas, Undray “Drakie” Jones (Katrina), Melirah Searcy, Yvonna R. McPhatter, Tymel Searcy

Great-grandchildren: Nashan, Josiah “Bo Pete,” Alijah Undray, Kemistry, Kemet, Yassir, Jesse, Noah, Skylar, Carter, Richard, Royal, Kingston

One sister-in-law: Joanne Burnette (MD)

A host of nieces, nephews, cousins (“Doll Baby” (MD), Dolores & Elrich Jones (MD), Larry White (NJ)), and friends

His First Baptist Church family and Masonic brothers

His legacy is one of faith, strength, humility, and love.