Lee Ernest Jones Jr, 78, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2024. Born July 13, 1945, in Cleveland Ohio, to the late Lee Ernest Jones Sr. and Elvia Jones. Lee began his education in the Cleveland Public School District where he graduated from John Adams High School in 1965. After high school, he joined the United States Navy and worked on the U.S.S.  Enterprise. Once back home from the Navy he worked at Warner and Swassey and eventually Lee got an apprenticeship at Fischer Body of General Motors. Lee loved his family. He was the eldest brother of 6 siblings. Lee married 3 times and fathered 5 sons and 10 grandchildren, Pearmon Micheal, Lee Ernest III, Chester Lee, Curtis Lee, and Laird Ernest. He received 3 bonus sons and 5 grandchildren from his union with his wife Thella (Pennie) whom Lee shared over 3 decades of memories.

Lee Ernest Jones was a member of New Galilee Baptist Church and enjoyed going to BTU bible study under Pastor W.C. Jones. 

Lee was preceded in death by his siblings Edward, Anthony and David, stepson Glover aka Nucci (Thella) and grandson Quemonte (Chester).

Lee Ernest was an avid martial artist. He loved to travel and spend time with family. He was well known throughout his community; some would call him a Legend. Throughout his life he maintained his tough yet loving demeanor. Known for retelling entertaining memories of his good ol’ days with anyone who would listen. He was the real “Black Belt Jones”. 

Later in life, Lee began his fight against cancer, where he overcame his first battle. After that, he ensured he would live his life with meaning and let everyone know how much he loved them. When doctors told him it was back, he didn’t let that defeat him. He fought a good fight and enjoyed quality time with his beloved Butterbean until his last days.

Lee was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his family members who survive him. Lee leaves to mourn wife Thella (Pennie) Jones, siblings Pamela, Paul, Daphne, sons Pearmon Micheal, Lee Ernest III, Chester Lee, Curtis Lee, Laird Ernest, stepsons Orlando and Arius and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews.