James Kenneth Jones, Sr.

James Kenneth Jones, 70, of Kinston passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 28, 2021. He was a loving father, grandfather, friend with a generous spirit and wit.

He courageously and proudly served his country in the US Army as a Helicopter Medic during the period of 13 January 1968 to 12 October 1983. During the Vietnam War, he actively participated in more than 25 aerial missions between 16 August 1969 to 15 September 1969. He received one of the highest honors of medals during that period, The Air Medal for going above and beyond his call of duty to bring his fellow soldier’s home.

He is preceded in death by his dad, James Jones; stepdad, Harry Zimmermann; stepsister, Carolyn Zimmermann and brother-in-law, Greg Smith.

After his military service he was a commercial electrician for many years. During his youth he loved to play baseball. He loved to read, fish, golf, was an avid watcher of sports and basketball but mostly enjoyed watching Duke Basketball, NASCAR and WWE Wrestling and never missed Smackdown. Enjoyed music but especially The Rolling Stones and The Who.

Left to remember and honor him is his beloved mother, Lillian “Cat” Zimmermann; sister, Susan Gayle Smith; children, James Kenneth Jones Jr., and Renee Miller (Robbie) and his precious granddaughter Allie Miller; the mother of his children and friend, Drew Grady Bradshaw; three special friends, Robert Peyton, James McLawhorn and his cat, Battle-Cat.

Viewing will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 30, 2021 at Garner Funeral Home. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, May 1, 2021 at Westview Cemetery with Military Rites. Family will receive friends at the home of Drew Grady Bradshaw, 918 Jefferson Drive, Kinston, NC 28504.