Michael Anthony Jones

Michael A. Jones ("Mike") was born on January 8, 1963, in Suffolk, Virginia, the youngest of six children born to the late Willie Lloyd Jones, Sr. and Hazel Virginia Myrick Jones. He was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Annette Denise Jones.

From an early age, Michael's life was grounded in faith. He became a devoted member of Tabernacle Christian Church, where he faithfully served on the Adult Usher Board, following the example of his father. His quiet commitment to God and service to others remained constant throughout his life.

Michael was educated in the Suffolk Public School System and graduated from John Yeates High School in 1981. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Old Dominion University in 1985.

Following graduation, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit by establishing a rent-to-own business. He later dedicated much of his career to serving others, working as a Benefits Program Specialist II with the Suffolk Department of Social Services and with the Faith Foundation, supporting individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. In 2021, he became a Hearing Examiner with the Virginia Employment Commission, serving in that role until declining health led to his retirement.

Those who knew Michael knew him as a man of quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family. Perhaps nowhere was his love more evident than in the care he provided for his parents during their later years. He gave of himself freely, offering comfort, support, and companionship with patience and grace. He never sought recognition for these acts of love; he simply considered it the right thing to do.

Michael enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He was a lifelong and loyal fan of the Washington Commanders, cheering for them through every season. He was equally passionate about Norfolk State University athletics, faithfully following both football and basketball. Friends often joked that he must have graduated from Norfolk State because of how proudly he wore the school's colors, attended games, and spoke about its teams. Though an alumnus of Old Dominion University, Michael affectionately claimed Norfolk State as his "other alma mater."

He also took great pride in his home, especially his yard. Michael loved working outdoors and was known for maintaining an immaculate lawn. The care he put into his yard reflected the care he put into every aspect of his life.

After a courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma, Michael passed away peacefully on Friday, September 25, at 2:47 a.m. at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, surrounded by the loving presence of his family.

Michael leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his brothers, Willie L. Jones, Jr. (Jean) of Frederick, Maryland, and Sylvester Jones (Dawn) of Sterling, Virginia; his sisters, Rev. Brenda E. Jones of Glendale, Arizona, and Yvonne J. Randolph (Raney) of Suffolk, Virginia; along with a host of beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and extended family members. He shared a special bond with his cousin Jacqueline Goode, affectionately known as "Jack-Jack," and treasured the many friendships that enriched his life.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Carlton R. Upton, Dr. Simmons, Dr. Iteneza, and the staff of the Virginia Oncology Association; Dr. Schultz and the staff of VCU Health; and the compassionate caregivers and medical professionals at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Sentara Obici Hospital. Special thanks are also extended to his devoted caregivers, Lavern Bynum and Roland, whose kindness, support, and companionship were a tremendous blessing. Michael's life was a beautiful example of faith, humility, service, and love. He touched countless lives through his quiet generosity, gentle spirit, and steadfast care for others. Though he is now at rest in the arms of Christ, the love he shared and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Well done, good and faithful servant. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family and friends who will forever love and remember him.

A public viewing will be held on Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held at Oak Grove Baptist Church on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 12 o'clock. He will be laid to rest at Meadowbrook Memorial and Cremation Gardens Cemetery, located at 4569 Shoulders Hill Rd. Suffolk, VA 23435. The family has entrusted Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. with services rendered with dignity, compassion, and care.