Richard Clinton Jones

Richard Clinton Jones, 68, of Alton, IL, formerly, Collinsville, IL, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024, at his home in Alton, IL.

He was born on November 14, 1955, in East St. Louis, IL, to Mervyn Otto and June Eillen (nee Henson) Jones. He grew up in Collinsville, and graduated from Collinsville High School in 1973, then went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts at SIUE, majoring in History. He worked for the United States Postal Service until his retirement.

He loved Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan, particularly, alongside an array of music, favoring classic rock—notably the Rolling Stones. A talented musician, Richard played the bass, guitar, and drums, and lead vocals in local bands, including Meet The Cleavers, Detour, Second Helping, Deacon Von Hollywood (a one man band), Time Bandits, and most recently, The Rocket Brothers. He loved playing at his high school reunions, his last performance being his youngest daughter’s wedding in 2019 as she walked down the aisle. A collection of his songs will be played at the visitation.

Rich loved classic literature and was an avid reader. He enjoyed politics, history reenactments, friends, and traveling. His favorite TV show was the Andy Griffith Show. He also had a warm spot in his heart for animals, fostering animals who needed a loving home. Richard was known for his love of the great outdoors, where he found solace in fishing.

A man of faith, Richard volunteered as an usher at church in his younger years, and rededicated his life to Christ when he was rebaptized at the age of 49. He attended Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville most recently.

Richard was also an enthusiastic sports fan, with a particular fondness for the Green Bay Packers, Rams, and Cardinals. He had a die-hard dedication to and immense pride for his high school basketball team—the Collinsville Kahoks—following them for decades after his graduation. Whether cheering from the stands or watching from home, his dedication to his favorite teams was unwavering.

Known for his sharp wit and warm heart, Richard had a great sense of humor that endeared him to everyone he met. His laughter was contagious, and he had a remarkable ability to bring light to any situation with his unique sense of humor. Cherishing friendships, many of his fondest memories were of time spent with dear friends and the fun they had together.

Above all, Richard cherished his family. He was a devoted father and a proud grandfather. His family was his greatest treasure, and he found immense joy in spending time with those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mervyn Otto and June Eillen Jones; brother, Jack Jones; and half-brother, Rodger.

Richard is survived by daughters Shelly Colvin of Alton, Jill Bartel of Godfrey, and grandchildren Kaleb Harper and Chloe Harper. He also left behind the mother of his children and friend Mila Jones of Edwardsville and sister, Donna Kay Preloger, of Granite City; sister-in law, Jean Jones; nieces and nephews, Dawn Rutledge, Bretania Jones, Tricia Jones, David Jones, Lisa Doss, Rebecca Markovich, Amanda Whistler; loving girlfriend, Barbara Franklin. Rich is also survived by a beloved cat--Red-- who resides with his grandchildren now.

Memorials may be made to Jill Bartel for burial expenses at gofundme.com.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-jill-and-shelly-in-memory-of-richard?qid=9707e1c5751065caf06028c5e089d6a2

Visitation: Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, at Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

Service: Saturday, August 24, 2024, 3:00 PM, at Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

There will not be a burial ceremony, however, you are welcome to join family and friends in post-event tradition at Horseshoe Lake Lounge, an old favorite friend meet-up of Richard’s, for a more casual Send-off afterwards.