Ronald Dean Jones, age 81, of Lexington, Kentucky, formerly of Morehead, Kentucky, passed away Saturday morning, March 2, 2024, in Lexington, Kentucky.

Born April 24, 1942, in Martin, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Everette and Marie Ratliff Jones.  He attended McDowell High School followed by four years of service in the United States Navy.  He returned to Morehead to continue his education, graduating with a bachelor's degree in 1970 and his Masters of Arts in Education in 1971.

While attending college, Ron worked at the Morehead State University Bookstore where he met the love of his life, JoAnn Scruggs.  They married January 31, 1969, and remained devoted to each other and greatly enjoyed their family until JoAnn's death on June 22, 2013.

In addition to his wife and parents, Ron was preceded in death by his only sister, Pamela Gray.

Ron is survived by two loving daughters, Ann Marie Francis (Tim) of Lexington, Kentucky, and Jenny Burch (Kevin) of Walton, Kentucky; five precious grandchildren, Madden White (Andrew), Caroline Francis, and Gabe Francis; Carter Burch and Cooper Burch; and one adorable great-granddaughter, Rosie Grace White, as well as extended family and many lifelong friends.

An employee of Morehead State University for more than 20 years, Ron finished out his career in state government as Deputy Director of Information Technology in 2001.

A lifelong Kentucky football fan, Ron also enjoyed fishing and anything that involved his family.  He was on a first-name basis with many McDonald's employees and would never turn down a cheeseburger or apple pie. Ron was adored by his family and friends.  His legacy will be his faith, kindness, and his sense of humor.  He will be dearly missed by all lucky enough to know him.

A celebration of life will be held 12 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals with Brother Mark Poston and Pastor Mitchell Burch officiating.

Burial will follow in Brown Cemetery with full military honors presented by Morehead American Legion Post 126.

Pallbearers:  Tim Francis, Kevin Burch, Gabe Francis, Carter Burch, Cooper Burch, Jerry Scruggs, Todd Shadowen, Denton Blair.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to God's Pantry Food Bank, 1685 Jaggie Fox Way, Lexington KY 40511

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com