Mr. Donald "Duke" Michael Jones, of Aberdeen, North Carolina entered into eternal rest on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Dahlia Gardens Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Aberdeen, North Carolina.

Donald Michael (“Duke”) Jones was born on February 28, 1958, to SGM William Leroy. Jones, US Army, (Ret), and Alice Hamlin, at Ft. Bragg/Liberty, NC. Duke was an obedient, affectionate  and friendly child who cherished the company of family and friends. He attended grades K-12 in Aberdeen, NC. Because of his special needs, like his community, the school environment was a  village that embraced and nurtured his academic, social, and personal growth. Despite learning challenges, Donald believed in the value of being an educated, working, and productive member of society. He was so well-liked by everyone that when he received his Pinecrest High School diploma, the entire auditorium of teachers and students gave him a standing ovation. He subsequently  attended Sandhills Community College.

As an ambassador for Christ, making everyone feel valued and loved came naturally to Duke. He thought the most important things in the world included being independent, having a job, and  getting married. For most of his adult life, he attended a day (vocational) program where he learned job training skills. Until one month before his death, while wheelchair bound and with failing  health, he was actively seeking a “good” job. While he never married, the “apple of his eye,” was Gwendolyn Wall. Even though they lived far apart, they had an endearing friendship that lasted 45  years.

Over the years, Duke’s favorite pastimes included: dressing up and attending church; playing basketball and impressing others by his unbelievable long shots and layups; and walking around  town and getting the latest news; His passion for old school music and ability to “cut a rug” was displayed on the dance floor during nights out with his sister. Dining out, sharing special moments  and shopping sprees with his brother were always a treat. Traveling north to visit his sister or his nephew’s family was always exciting. Most of all, Duke enjoyed family phone calls and gatherings. Duke was a “talker of talkers.” His happiness came from socializing and giving to others whatever (e.g., treats, money, his new socks, and favorite CDs) he had at the moment. Due to serious,  progressive health challenges, which never dampened his jovial spirit, Duke’s final years were spent quietly at Dahlia Gardens Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Aberdeen. There he  received excellent care and was regularly seen navigating his wheelchair through the hallways, striking up good conversations, and making others laugh.

While his simple life may seem unremarkable to many, Duke had a zest for life and a meek, joyful, and generous spirit. He contributed remarkably to the lives of those who took the time to get to  know him. He was God’s greatest gift to our family and an angel on earth.

To cherish his life and legacy, Duke leaves in his life’s wake, his sister, Brenda Jones Travis; his brother, Bobby Leroy Jones (Lindell); his nephews, Daniel Wesley Bowden, Sr. (Delora) and  Waylon Jones; his nieces, Tiffany Jones Krouse (Scott) and Ebony Jones Massaro (Vincent); and a multitude of great nephews and nieces, cousins, extended family, and beloved friends. He was  predeceased by his father, SGM William Leroy Jones, Sr., US Army (Ret) and mother, Alice Hamlin Jones, and other paternal and maternal relatives.

DONATIONS: In lieu of flowers, plants, and tree planting, donations are requested and will be distributed to organizations that provided excellent care/support for Duke during his final years. Please make checks payable to: Brenda J. Travis and mail to:
B. J. Travis
705 Cabazon Drive
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579

Please keep the family and friends of Mr. Donald "Duke" Michael Jones in your thoughts and prayers. 

Arrangements are entrusted to McLeod Funeral Home of Southern Pines, North Carolina.