Charley R. Jones

May 15, 1932, ushered in yet another blessing for Spurgeon and Blanche Jones, proud parents of Charley Raywood. He was the youngest of four sons, the seventh child iµ a family of eight lively, ingenious, adventuresome children.

Charley and his siblings enjoyed a fun-filled childhood with many memorable, bonding experiences. As the youngest of four boys, Charley's behavior typified that particular sibling position. His brothers were his role models; he happily followed in their footsteps. They played football; he played football. They had Plain Dealer routes; he got up at the break of dawn with his paper route, And so it continued in loving adulation!.      -                               .                             .                                                       .         .

The family moved to Garfield Heights during Charley's (Chuck's) formative years. Garfield was adjacent to Miles Heights. The annexed neighborhood became the true haven for the family. Miles Heights was a dose­

krut1 community where the Jones clan witnessed a spirit of friendly goodwill and neighborly concern. As Charley often reflected, "You'd better watch it 'cause the neighbors will tell on you.I' Life for Charley was also purposeful, for spiritual, ethical and character-building teachings were an integral part of his upbringing.

Charley accepted Christ at an early age. As such, he loved attending church, which was often an all-day affair. Indeed, the Smoot Memorial Church, later named the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, formed the foundation for what was to become a lifetime journey as a disciple of Christ.                              .                                                  .                                                                                                                                                                                                                        .

The family's spiritual life was greatly enhanced by his father, an evangelical singer who traveled nationally and internationally with the Cleveland Coloured Gospel Quintette. Mother had an indelible impact, also, for as Sunday School teacher, choir director, and church pianist, her spiritual principles were readily transferable.

Charley attended Garfield Heights High School. Following graduation, he joined The United States Air Force, where he served his country with dedication and distinction. Throughout his thirty year tenure, he was . stationed in New York, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Texas, France, Germany, Korea and Thailand.

Charley served as a Wing/Base Superintendent of Plans, Scheduling and Documentation in the Air Force. To this end, he managed a myriad of scheduled maintenance requirements for 200 aircraft. He also initiated and supervised the daily flying schedule. Charley's superior officers repeatedly lauded him as one who consistently demonstrated outstanding management and supervisory practices.  A number of factors contributed to this assessment.  To name a few: he possessed an uncanny ability to identify potential problems, analytically sought solutions, made corrections without hesitation; his expertise in management of personnel and resource$ was unmatched. He always exemplified a positive attitude toward challenges; and continuously demonstrated a quest for professional excellence. Indeed, (by general consensus), as one Lt. Colonel said, "SMSgt Jones proved that he could handle the tough jobs!" His outstanding performance enabled him to reach the rank of SMSgt., Senior Master Sergeant.

Charley had the distinction of being a 32nd degree Mason and Master of his Lodge at the Hahn Airforce Base in Germany.

Upon returning to civilian life, Charley worked as a motorist for RTA. After three years, he re-enlisted (no doubt missing the routine and discipline of military life). In 1980, Charley retired and was employed twelve years as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service. Little did he suspect that such a treasure as Ruth Douglas awaited him at the Post Office. At a mellow age, this eligible bachelor found Ruthie.. He delighted in recalling how Denise, Ruth's daughter, saw him as a promising suitor and, therefore, arranged a blind date.  The rest is history! Marriage for twenty-nine years became the epicenter of loving companionship, the pursuit of like interests, and family assimilation.

When Ruth and Charley moved to their new home in Macedonia, Ruth became the master of interior design; Charley the "Lord of the Manor" of his highly touted yard, replete with beautiful flowers and foliage.

The couple enjoyed extensive travel to the Caribbean, Africa, Europe and South America. They also shared an intense love for jazz which prompted many trips to out-of-town jazz festivals. Moreover, Charley assumed his newly acquired family role with zealous attentiveness and generosity.

Charley loved fishing. Walleye and yellow perch were much sought after. He and his buddies enjoyed expeditions in Ohio, South Carolina and Canada. Early · Risings, chartered boats and genuine camaraderie marked their outings. Many seafood lovers were the beneficiaries of his "catch:' because fishing trips were often so bountiful. In fact, Charley's zeal for the sport was transferred to his three grandsons who were thrilled to accompany "Fisherman" Granddad, and proudly display their catch of the day.

Another favorite sport was white water river rafting. Many exciting hours were spent riding the waves in West Virginia.

Charley's deep-seated love for the Lord eventually led him to Olivet Institutional Baptist Church under the pastorate of Reverend Dr. Otis Moss, Jr. He was humbled by Rev. Moss' appointment of him as a deacon; he continued to serve faithfully under Pastor Jawanza K. Colvin.

Charley was wholeheartedly committed to fulfill4,.g the responsibilities of his ordained position. As well, he was committed to meeting the expectations of the Rose of Sharon Ministry. Several of his endeavors were as follows: coordinator for excursions to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio; organizer for the ministry Christmas celebrations; editor for the much-acclaimed Mother's Day Memory Book - a publication that paid tribute to the love, sacrifice, encouragement, and faith of the revered mothers of the Olivet members. Additionally, he assisted the Rose of Sharon Ministry in the preparation of funeral repasts for beloved members. As a deacon, he served untiringly in the Finance Room each Sunday until health issues dictated a change in routine.

Charles was called to his heavenly home on March 3, 2023. Imagine the joy of his reunion with those loved ones who are waiting for him.

He leaves to mourn his passing two nieces: Sandra Wiggins and Valerie Calhoun; one nephew Paul Jones; three stepdaughters: Denise Scott, Diane Cummings, Dawn Douglas-Coker (Todd); step grandchildren Charles Scott, Stacey Scott, Christopher Coker, Collin Coker; great grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.

Humbly submitted, The Family

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