PHOENIX-At the dawning of a new day on May 6, 2026, Bill was touched by God and now he sleeps in his eternal home.
Life began September 5, 1930, in the beautiful hills of Tucker County, West Virginia, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Jones of St. George, West Virginia where he remained until 1955.
He was married to his adored college sweetheart, Mary Josephine for 71 years. He was the proud and devoted father to one daughter Melody Tara Maynes and her husband Marc Wittorio Maynes of whom he idolized. Bill is survived by his wife Mary Josephine, daughter Melody and son-in-law Vito.
Bill grew up with five siblings, one brother, Jim Jones, and a sister Sandra Lynn Hill, who proceeded him in death. Bill is survived by three sisters, Judith Dianne Jacques, Carol Louise Crosten and Jane Elizabeth Shahan along with many nephews, nieces, and cousins. Bill completed a B. A. Degree at Davis and Elkins College, M. A. at West Virginia University, and a Doctorate at Arizona State University. Bill was a life-long professional educator starting his career teaching in a one room school house in St. George, West Virginia; ultimately becoming Superintendent of Glendale Union High School District and Dysart Unified School District. Bill was a Veteran serving in the Korean War. He served his community in many capacities through his involvement in professional, civic, social, and fraternal organizations. Bill will be deeply missed by his loving family, many dear friends, and respected colleagues. His daughter, Melody, will forever cherish the immeasurable blessing of being her father’s little girl. Private services will be held, and his cremains will be interred in the Festival Gardens at Shadow Rock Church.
