Gerald Jones

Gerald Wayne Jones, 85, of Jackson died Monday, July 28, 2025, at his home.

He served in the U.S. Army and Missouri National Guard from 1957-1966 and was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant.

Jones started his career as a high school science teacher at Jackson High School, but in 1974 he partnered with Marvin Proffer to combine the Jackson Journal and the Cape County Post and Cash-Book to create The Cash-Book Journal Newspaper.  He celebrated 50 years in the newspaper business during National Newspaper Week in October 2024.   Always an entrepreneur, he also joined forces with Jerry Reppert to create Cape Central Publishing Company where they each printed their respective newspapers.

He also was known for officiating track meets and football games all over the region. He was a registered track referee and starter for 50 years and a football referee for 40 years.

Jones had an extensive list of clubs and organizations he dedicated his time to, including serving as president of the Missouri Jaycees from 1971-72, when he met Pres. Richard Nixon; and president of the Southeast Missouri Press Association from 1982-83.

In addition to his wife of more than 60 years, Clarice, he is survived by three children Gerald W. Jones II, Gina Raffety and Sarah Wilson, and 10 grandchildren; along with many more family members and friends.