The Tragic, Sudden Passing of Jeff and Kim Jones

“The song is ended but the melody lingers on.”

-Irving Berlin

My name is Aubrey and I, along with many others, are utterly heartbroken and saddened to be writing about the sudden, unforeseen deaths of Jeff and Kim Jones. They were dedicated, loving parents who leave behind four children (Quinton “Que” Jones, Cameron Jones (Abigail Kirsch), Abigail Jones and Emily Jones). Kim was a lifelong educator, serving as a Columbus City School teacher for almost thirty years. Jeff, also a lifelong educator, was kind, funny, and passionate about playing steel drums.

Their eldest son, Que, married his wonderful husband, Troy VanGundy only one month ago. I am privileged to have gotten to know Que through my friendship with Troy. The family has found themselves having to navigate the passing of two parents within one day of each other just this week. As we all know, when grief strikes help is needed to heal. The world continues while we heal yet that time stands still for the family. They need not go at this journey alone. The surviving family has much to navigate at this time, including funeral arrangements, estate navigation and other legal fees, as the tragic nature of their deaths did not allow for end of life planning. Grief takes a toll on the body, leaving us with a small, precious amount of energy to make it through our darkest days. We are also wanting to make their lives easier, be it through donations for meals, caring for pets, house cleanings, and the unexpected expenses which arise. We want them to know they have a community of others who are there to support and love them—just as they would for us. ✌️