Edward Martin “Big Red” Jones departed this life on March 6, 2026, at the age of 88, with his loved ones by his side at Springview Manor in Lima, Ohio. He was born on October 18, 1937, at St. Rita Medical Center in Lima, Ohio, to Harriet E. Harriston and Jesse Willard Jones.

He spent his early childhood in Lima before relocating to Inkster, Michigan, following his mother’s marriage to Mr. William N. Clark. Edward graduated from Inkster High School in 1955. Eddie moved back to Lima, Ohio, and in 1958, he married Joann Cook, and they stayed companions and friends for 68 years.

He worked at the Lima Ford Plant for 30 years, retiring in 1989. During that time, he also joined his father in operating the Skyline Bar and Grill. Upon the passing of his father, Jesse Jones, in 1987, Edward assumed full ownership and continued the legacy. Edward started the Skyline Black Golfer’s Club and sponsored many events under the Skyline brand. He retired and sold the Skyline Bar in 2004. “Now all is quiet.”

In his words, “I leave behind to cherish my memories, my children: Roxana Spears, Eunice Gooding, Kevin Jones, Peyton Smith, and Nikki Branson. I leave to cherish my memories, my hopes and dreams in my seven grandchildren and my four great‑grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many dear friends.”

Besides his parents and stepfather, he was preceded in death by one brother, Jerome Clark, a sister, Carole Hill, and one granddaughter, Shawnta Denise Jones.

On June 14, 2024, Edward rededicated his life to Jesus Christ, renewing his walk with the Lord.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to time of service at the Jones Clark Funeral Home Chapel, 1302 Oakland Parkway, Lima, Ohio. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the chapel.

Interment: Woodlawn Cemetery

Services entrusted to: JONES-CLARK FUNERAL HOME, INC.

To order flowers and to offer condolences to the Jones Family, visit www.jonesclarkfuneralhome.com