December 19, 1942 – December 12, 2023
MANTEO — Donald Wayne Jones, 80, of Manteo, NC, passed away on December 12, 2023. Born December 19, 1942, in Beaumont, TX. Donald, also known as Tex, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Donald was a proud Texan who cherished his family and his roots. He adored spending time with and supporting his ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Pop.” Donald was a friend to everyone he met and had a special talent for making people feel valued. He told hilarious (and nearly true) stories, memorable jokes, and would even sing “Running Bear” or “Hambone” upon request.
In his free time, Donald enjoyed watching movies with “no social redeeming value” and administering personality assessments. He was also passionate about coaching professionals to success in their respective fields. However, his greatest joy in life was his wife, Dianne, whom he adored.
Donald is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Dianne, and his siblings, Michael Jones (Robin), Charles “Buddy” Jones (Melanie), and Brenda Jones Walden (Lee), all of Texas. He is also survived by his children Donna Jones Koppelman (Chris) of Edenton, NC; Rebecca Jones Charloff (Steve) of Clayton, NC; Tonya Griffin Harris (Allen) of Sutherland, VA; and Steven Edward Jones (Ashley) of Manteo, NC. Donald’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Amber Levine (Jordan), Haley Koppelman, Hannah Koppelman, Allison Prunty (Seth), Maggie Murphy, Ben Koppelman, Porter Murphy, Jon Koppelman, Stella Ray, and Adler Jones, as well as his great-grandchildren, Griffin Levine, Delilah Prunty, and Atlas Levine (due 1/24). He was preceded in death by his mother, Imogene Radke Jones, and sister, Charlotte Jones Williams.
Donald attended Southpark High School in Beaumont, TX, and earned a B.S. from Memphis State University, where he played football as #42. He later obtained an MBA from Averett College.
After his Army service (1966-1968), Donald began his career at Dupont before joining Allied Chemical (later known as Allied Signal and Honeywell) as Safety, Environmental, and Quality Control Manager. Upon retirement in 1997, he and Dianne moved to the Outer Banks and founded Bottom Line Consulting, Inc., providing personal assessments and coaching services to help businesses and employees thrive and succeed.
In his leisure time, Donald enjoyed cycling, fishing, gardening, reading, and traveling. He had a zest for life, was a lifetime learner, and always sought new adventures.
Donald was an active member of Mount Olivet United Methodist Church in Manteo, NC. He served as Chairman of the Pastor Parish Committee and taught Sunday School and Bible School. His faith was an integral part of his life.
A memorial service to celebrate Donald’s life will be held on Wednesday, December 27, at 11 A.M. at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church in Manteo, NC.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to Dare Challenge or the Mount Olivet United Methodist Church Food Pantry.
Donald Wayne Jones will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
