Andrew William Jones Jr. was born on July 12, 1930, in Marion, Alabama to Roberta Lester Jones and Andrew William Jones, Sr. He was the first of seven wonderful children Andrew (Deloris), Willie (Esther), Benjamin (Elizabeth), Mary Lou (Willie), Jesse (Patricia), Charles (Yvette), and Bernice (Luther) in the Jones clan. He loved his name and insisted that the W for his middle name William always be included when being recognized. From an early age, faith became the foundation of his life. At the age of 12, Andrew accepted Christ at Sardis Baptist Church, beginning a lifelong journey of devotion to God. He was a deeply committed Christian who loved Jesus with all his heart and trusted God to guide him through every circumstance. God and Family were most important in his life!

As a child, Andrew enjoyed running track, playing the clarinet, reading the Bible, and singing solos. His love of scripture remained with him throughout his life. One passage that held special meaning for him was Galatians 6:7, a scripture taught to him by his mother and father that gave him confidence in knowing that God remained in control:

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” — Galatians 6:7

Andrew attended Beehive Elementary and Moses Cleveland Elementary Schools in Cleveland, Ohio, before continuing his education at John Adams High School. After graduating from John Adams, he began his college studies but was drafted into the United States Army during his freshman year. He proudly served for two years during the Korean Conflict, both in the United States and in London, England.

To his family and those closest to him, Andrew was affectionately known as Brother, Bro, Uncle Bro, and Fess, short for Professor. Andrew was often invited to sing many songs. Among his favorite songs to sing were, “Silent Night, O Holy Night, Bless this House, and the Lord’s Prayer, Everything Must Change, etc.”

Following his military service, Andrew continued his education at Central State University, where he majored in Biology and earned his Bachelor’s degree. His career as an educator began at Addison Junior High School. He later taught biology at Whitney Young Junior High School in Cleveland, where his leadership and dedication eventually led him to serve as Biology Department Chairperson.

Andrew’s life was also richly blessed by love and family. As the family story goes, Andrew’s mother helped make the match that would introduce him to the love of his life, Deloris. He was proud of the fact that Deloris would never have to work. He made sure she was taken care of and called her Queen Bee. Andrew and Deloris married and built a life together centered on love, family, faith, and service. Their union was blessed with three children: Andrew, Shon, and Arlen.

Andrew’s success as an educator and department chair revealed a natural gift for leadership. He continued his education at John Carroll University, earning a Master’s degree in Public Administration. He later joined the Warrensville Heights City School District as a high school administrator. His career continued to advance as he moved to the Board of Education, where he served as a Coordinator and later as Director of Special Education. He remained in that role until his retirement, leaving behind a legacy of service to students, families, educators, and the greater school community.

Faith remained at the center of Andrew’s life throughout his professional career and retirement. He faithfully served for many years as a Deacon at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church. Retirement did not diminish his desire to learn, serve, or deepen his relationship with God. His love of ministry inspired him to return to school, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Theology from Ashland University. Andrew proudly served as a missionary, conducting ministries in prisons and in nursing homes. He also continued serving the church as a deacon and pastor well into his retirement years, sharing his faith, wisdom, and love of God with others.

Andrew lived a life devoted to faith, family, education, leadership, and service. The lessons he taught extended far beyond the classroom. Through his example, he demonstrated the importance of perseverance, continuous education, responsibility, and trusting God through every season of life.

Andrews left this earth to be with our Lord on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Andrew’s earthly journey was marked by a steadfast faith and a commitment to serving others. His remission from prostate cancer and his long, full life following a dementia diagnosis more than 20 years ago reflected his strength, perseverance, and enduring faith. His commitment to lifelong learning, his determination to ensure that his children and others valued education, and his willingness to share the Scripture he treasured all reflected a life devoted to sowing faith, love, knowledge, and service. The seeds Andrew planted throughout his lifetime are a legacy that will continue to bear fruit through the generations and the many lives he touched.

Andrew William Jones Jr. was preceded in death by Benjamin and Elizabeth, Mary Lou and Willie, Charles, and Bernice. Andrew leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Deloris; his children, Andrew (Dee), Dr. Shon Smith (Barry), and Arlen (Samantha); his grandchildren, Jenaia, Jeanetta, Aaron Smith, Andrew IV, Lydia, and Arlen Jr.; his great-grandchildren, Jayla, Kayden, Alayna, and Kaylie; his brothers Willie (Esther), Jesse (Patricia), sister-in law, Yvette, and brother-in-law, Luther, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, former students, colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by his presence.