Reverend Bobby Joe Jones, 89, of Collinsville, Illinois, passed away at 9:06 a.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
He was born February 19, 1937, in Murray, Kentucky, a son of the late Gaylon and Effie (Puckett) Jones. He married the love of his life, Peggy Ann (Whitworth) Jones, on December 12, 1954, in Corinth, Mississippi. Together, they shared nearly 72 years of marriage filled with cherished memories, unwavering devotion, and a lifetime of love.
Bob proudly served his country with the United States Army Reserves. More importantly, he devoted his life to serving his Lord and Savior and sharing the Gospel with others. Throughout his ministry, Brother Bob faithfully served as an evangelist, youth minister, and pastor from 1968 until his retirement in 1997 from Grace Baptist Church in Granite City. His ministry touched many lives through the years, and his faith remained the foundation of everything he did.
Bob grew up in Kentucky and never forgot his roots. He enjoyed a life centered around faith, family, service to others, and the many communities he was blessed to call home. He and Peggy especially treasured their retirement years living at Kentucky Lake and wintering in Lakeland, Florida. A devoted sports fan, he faithfully cheered for the Kentucky Wildcats and the St. Louis Cardinals.
His faith and family were truly the center of his life. He deeply cherished his wife, daughter, granddaughter, and great-grandchildren and will be remembered for his loving heart, faithful spirit, and the many special memories he created with those he loved.
In addition to his beloved wife, Peggy, he is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Marv Stapleton of Maryville, Illinois; a granddaughter and her husband, Shannon and Larry Janke of Orange Park, Florida; three great-grandchildren, Gabriella and her husband, Chad Cappelli, Luke Janke, and Lily Janke; a sister-in-law, Shirley Jones of Paducah, Kentucky; other extended family members; and many dear friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Guthrie Jones.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road in Glen Carbon, Illinois, on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 3:00 p.m., with Marv Stapleton and family officiating.
He will be laid to rest at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon, Illinois, at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026.
Memorials may be made to The Gideons International.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.