Tom Jones

Thomas Martin Jones, 70, of Denison, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Gracewell Nursing Home. Born on April 11, 1954, in Denison to Max and Mary Kay (Catherine) Jones, Tom lived a life marked by dedication to his family, career, and passions.

Tom was baptized and later confirmed at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Denison. He attended St. Rose of Lima School through the seventh grade before transferring to public school, where he played basketball and graduated in 1972. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Northwest Missouri State in 1976. During his college years, he married Kathy (Davis) on July 19, 1975. Together they built a life filled with love and were blessed with two children, Stephanie and David.

After college, Tom returned to Denison and began a long and successful career with Farmland Foods (now Smithfield), where he worked as a cost accountant and assistant controller for over 37 years. In his free time, Tom enjoyed golfing—proudly achieving two holes-in-one at the Denison Country Club—and spending time at Lake View, a cherished retreat since childhood. Whether fishing, water skiing, or simply relaxing by the water, Lake View remained his favorite getaway throughout his life. Tom also spent time at the Denison Aquatic Center swimming, walking in the water, and of course, talking to everyone. 

Tom was known for his meticulous care of his lawn and vehicles and for his love of travel. He cherished trips with his siblings to destinations like Las Vegas, Mexico, and the Caribbean and enjoyed February escapes to Pompano Beach, Florida, with college friends. He never passed up an opportunity to visit a casino to play black jack. A devoted family man, Tom delighted in attending his children’s and grandchildren’s activities and shared special moments with David cheering on the Cubs and Kansas City Chiefs. He also cheered on the Hawkeyes and Cyclones. 

Tom enjoyed his morning breakfast gossip sessions at HyVee or Family Table with friends or a quick drive through at McDonalds. He was always about easy over eggs, bacon, hash browns, toast with grape jelly, and a pop. DQ was a go to for a dilly bar or chocolate malt during the summer. 

Preceded him in death were his parents Max and Mary Kay Jones and grandmother Nellie Pieper. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy of nearly 50 years; daughter, Stephanie (Dean) Henningsen; son, David (Kristi) Jones; grandchildren: Payton, Jaxson, Reagan Henningsen, and Harper Jones; siblings: Monica (Carl) Bohm, Renee (Kyle) Whited, and Richard (Donna) Jones; as well as many nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to either the American Cancer Society or the Crawford County Fair Board for the continuation of the Bacon Buddies program that his granddaughter, Payton, started and Jaxson, his grandson is continuing. Tom’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in peace.