John David Jones
John David Jones, age 72 of Penhook died Friday, July 4, 2025 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.
Born January 2, 1953 in Shelby, North Carolina, he was the son of the late John Malcolm and Dorothy Hubbard Jones. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ernest and Grace Fralin; half-sister, Lucille Roberts and her husband Floyd; brothers-in-law, Dudley Lewis, Julian Obenshain and Donnie Fralin.
David is survived by his wife of 45 years, Serena Fralin Jones; his daughters, Rev. Robbie Miller (Alex), Dr. Jessica Deloach (Matt) and Dr. Marybeth Pruitt (Brad). Also surviving are his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly, Giles and Davie Pruitt, Tatum Deloach and Oliver Miller. Papa looked forward to one-on-one time spent with them but especially loved his daily video chats.
He is also survived by his brother, Bobby Jones (Susan); nephew, Jason Jones (Stephanie); and niece, Tina Murray (Kevin). Others surviving are sisters-in-law, Joyce Obenshain, Cynthia Strock (Terry), Jessie Derey (Bud), Nancy Lewis; and brother-in-law, David Fralin. Also surviving are a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
David worked hard his entire life starting at home and helping neighbors with tobacco and other chores on the farm. He valued a job well done as evidenced by the many gardens he planted and cultivated. He drove a school bus while a student at Franklin County High School. He worked in the school cafeteria and school bus garage. He worked in industry at JP Stevens and at Martin Processing for many years and for Ideal Building Supply. He retired from the Virginia Department of Transportation with 32 years of service. In a message of love, a friend described him this way, “There’s not many people from life you can put into the category of role model. He fit the category well.”
David was a life member of Snow Creek Rescue Squad and a faithful member of Glade Hill Baptist Church for many years.
While in elementary school, David took piano lessons and later accordion lessons. Many of his family and friends remember him for his voice which he used to bring joy to others while serving the Lord.
Visitation will be at Flora Funeral Service on Monday, July 7, 2025 from 5 to 7 p.m. A service of remembrance conducted by Rev. Charles A. Swanson will be held at Flora Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at 2 p.m. Interment will follow at Franklin Memorial Park.
The family would like to express sincere appreciation to Lucas Amos, Josh Turner and Critical Care/ICU nurse KT. In addition, thanks to Rocky Mount Police Department and especially Officer Karli Johnson.
Memorial gifts in David’s honor can be made to the Posey W. Dillon Memorial Scholarship, c/o Ann Dillon, 200 Brookshire Drive, Rocky Mount, Virginia 24151.
