Clifford O. Jones Obituary (1959 - 2017)

JONES, Clifford Owen Born in Rochester, NY to Eleanor Edith Wilkinson Jones and Robert Hugh Jones - passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 31, 2017 in Horseheads, NY. His 58 years were filled with love and caring for his family and friends. After earning a Diploma in 1977 from Honeoye Falls-Lima High School, Cliff attended Nathaniel Hawthorne College in New Hampshire, where he completed his training in flight school and met the love of his life, Geraldine "Fern" St. John, whom he married on August 29, 1981. Over their 36 years together, Cliff and Geraldine were best friends and gave life to two beautiful sons, Corey (1982) and Ian (1984), who enjoyed a childhood filled with love and adventure. Cliff was proud of his sons and taught them to be curious, become self-sufficient and appreciate nature. During Cliff's career as a pilot, he taught at the ATE American Flyers School on Long Island, and flew for several corporations, most recently as Chief Pilot for Egret Aviation in Elmira. After retiring from flying he provided computer support in the Elmira region. Cliff was a skilled guitarist and brilliant thinker with many interests including geology, astronomy, radios, natural history, and all things about railroads. He provided a sanctuary for many abandoned or injured dogs and cats. Clifford was also a strong advocate for personal freedom and responsibility. Preceded by the death of his parents and sister Nancy Kennedy, Clifford is survived by his wife, brother Robert Jones Jr., brother-in-law Spencer Kennedy, sister-in-law Jeryl Jones, two sons and their spouses, five grandchildren, and two nephews. Clifford was a bright star whose light shone on his family, friends, and countless strangers. All will miss his hilarious stories, exceptional memory, boisterous laughter, strongly argued political viewpoints, and above all his generous and caring nature. A celebration of Cliff's life will be held September 19, 4-7 PM, at Wagner Vineyards, 9322 State Route 414, Lodi, NY 14860. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Horseheads Community Animal Shelter http://horseheadscommunityanimalshelter.com or Compassionate Companion Care (specify Morgan Jeremiah Fund on check), 204 Hendy Creek Road, Pine City, NY 14871.