Obituary of Mercer Craig Jones

Mercer Craig Jones

Sept  17, 1953 – January 30,2024

Mercer Craig Jones of Huddleston Va. transitioned to his eternal home on January 30, 2024 surrounded by his family.  Known to friends and family as Craig, Craiger, Papa and Big “P”. Craig was a quiet man…always assessing the situation whatever it might be. His faith in God was STRONG, his love for his family unconditional. He cared BIG and loved DEEP.

Craig was born to the late Lucy & Elbert Jones in Roseboro, NC. After high school and technical school graduation he relocated to Durham, NC to take a job at General Telephone Co. During his 40+ years in Durham he was employed at Liggett & Meyers, GE Medical Systems, Nortel Networks and SAS Institute. He retired from SAS in early 2018 .

His retirement allowed he and Debbie to move to Huddleston to be near Smith Moutain Lake which they both loved and MOST importantly to be close to family and his beloved grandchildren. His happiest moments were when he was with them doing whatever they wanted to do! He was one proud Papa and treasured every memory they made.

Craig was a selfless man who always put others before himself. Helping  others less forunate brought him great joy.

In addition to his parents, Craig was predeceased by his brother Bobby D. Jones of Hope Mills, NC.  He is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Debbie; daughter, Ashley Dellis, son-in-law, Timmy Dellis; grandchildren, Walker, Jack and Aubrey Dellis; goddaughter, Bella Moorehead; sister, Sherry Coulter; niece, Amanda Coulter; nephews, Lance, Ryan, and Alex Daniel, and a special niece and nephew, Blair and Zack Moorehead. There are so many close friends that Craig loved like family that we adopted “FRAMILY” from a dear friend to describe the close bond we shared.  He was thankful for each and every one of you.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Eastlake Community Church, 1201 Timberwood Lane, Moneta Va 24121 on February 17th at 2pm. This will be an informal gathering to rejoice in Craig’s home going and reflect on a life well lived.

Our lives will always feel the void you leave, our hearts will forever be broken. Go rest  high on that mountain Big P.  We love you MORE!!!

In lieu of flowers, Craig would like donations to be made to SMLCA, Attention: Annette Stephenson, 1449 Hendricks Store Rd., Moneta VA 24121,and in the memo,please write in memory of Craig Jones.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.