William Fred Jones, 86, of Starkville, MS, passed away on January 17, 2018 at his residence. He was born on September 11, 1931, to Howard and Hautense Jones in Sebastopol, MS. Dr. Jones graduated from Mississippi State University, with a doctorate in Agronomy, where he was a professor, and participated in field crop research, for 40 years. During his time at Miss State, he met his wife of 64 years, Mary Miller Jones. He enjoyed squirrel hunting, fishing, bluegrass music, Bible study, and vegetable gardening. Dr Jones was a Christian who was very devoted to church work. Dr Jones was a charter member of the Emanuel Baptist Church, a Sunday school teacher and director, and a Deacon. He was past member of Calvary Baptist Church, and current member of First Baptist Church of Starkville. Dr Jones was a Army veteran.

Dr Jones was preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law Sellers Norris.

He is survived by his wife Mary Miller Jones, brother Jesse (Peggy) Jones of Brandon, Fl, sister Linda Norris of Purvis, MS, Daughters Brenda (Bryan) Teel of Madison, MS, and Becky (Richard) McInnis of Wesson, Ms, and son Jeff Jones of Niceville, Fl. Dr Jones is also survived by grandchildren Katie (Evan) Powell, Laura Jones, Zack Jones, Will McInnis, and Sam McInnis.

The family would like to thank friends and healthcare workers, for all of their acts of kindness, visits, thoughts, and prayers. Special thanks to Dr Steve Brandon, Lanedra Tate, and Mary Banks.

Visitation will be held at Welch Funeral Home, in Starkville, from 12-2:00, with the service at 2:00pm. Service will be officiated by Clifton Curtis, minister at First Baptist Church. Burial will be in Memorial Garden Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to First Baptist Church Children’s Building Fund of Starkville, or Palmer’s Children’s Home.