Max S Jones

On the morning of Sunday, May 18, 2025, the world lost a true treasure. Max S. Jones, 68, of Fluvanna, passed away beautifully and peacefully, surrounded by family and escorted by an acapella church hymn.

Max was born in Snyder, Texas to Don A. and Nelva Jones. He quickly became a top hand on the family farm and ranch alongside his two younger sisters, Donelle and Carla. It was in the hallways of the Fluvanna School and later the Borden County School, along with the farms, fields, and pastures of West Texas, that Max grew into a man of integrity, purpose, and unwavering compassion for others. He also developed the ability to swing one heck of a loop and was never afraid to test his skill at any calf or team roping.

After an illustrious campaign on the college rodeo trail at South Plains College, Max married Bethe Terry and their children, Sky and Rana, joined the world. As the years passed, Max earned a reputation for hard work, quick wit, and a generous heart. Later, Max married Jane Jones, whom he was happily married to for over 35 years. It was at that time, Cody and Carey joined the family - a family that always came first. Spending time with family, friends and neighbors filled his heart with joy, (and filled everyone else’s life with lots of laughter!)

Max spent his years working the family farm and ranch operations in Scurry and Borden counties. Farming cotton and raising horses and cattle were a way-of-life that helped mold Max into the kind of man who was never afraid to get his hands dirty or help his neighbor.

Max enjoyed traveling and spreading his West Texas spirit wherever he went. Always up for an adventure, Max could be found on a fishing trip in Montana, a trail ride in Germany, horseback in Wyoming with Jane, or any number of sporting events, livestock shows or Junior rodeos cheering on the grandkids, (and everyone else’s kids, too).

When you got in the pickup with Max Jones, you never knew what you were in for. You might end up joining him for a spontaneous trip to town and a bite to eat, helping him move heavy equipment across the county or changing a strangers’ flat tire. Max had a very special way of making everyone feel at ease and making sure everyone was included. Giving others a catchy nickname (that oftentimes was then yours for life!) was just one of the things that made Max one-of-a-kind.

Most importantly, Max lived “with his bags packed.” He lived his life as a wonderful example of God’s love and service to others, inspiring and influencing people from all walks of life to do the same. He’s was a faithful, active member of the Fluvanna Church of Christ, and later, the Gail Church of Christ.

Max was preceded in death by his father, Don A. Jones. He is survived by his wife, Jane Jones; mother, Nelva Jones; sisters Donelle Hensley (Randy) and Carla Sandusky (Grant); children Sky S. Jones (Tara), Rana Jameson (Bradley), Cody Cox (Lacee), Carey Bridgeman (Wade) and a whole mess of grandkids, nieces, and nephews whom all knew and loved their “Pop”.

A community graveside service will be held at the Fluvanna Cemetery on Thursday, May 29 at 10 am. Max’s love for a old fashioned reunion (and a well-run buffet line) will be honored as we host a catered Celebration of Life at the Borden County Event Center in Gail, Texas at noon. All are welcome to attend both! Bring your family, friends, and a good story to share. Those wishing to make memorial donations are encouraged to do so in Max’s memory to the Borden County Junior Livestock Association at PO Box 144, Gail, Texas 79738.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting millerfamilyfuneralhome.com