Jeffrey Fennell Jones

August 26, 1942 - November 16, 2025

Jeff spent his early life on the East Coast, mostly in Pennsylvania, with his mother Ella Yeager Jones and sister Barbara Galaty. After high school, he headed out west to California to attend Valley State (now known as Cal State Northridge in Los Angeles) to study Marine Biology, but ended up graduating with a degree in Theater Arts! While he dreamed of working in movies, during this time he lived and worked on a boat, which gave him an idea for a career in Sport Fishing.

Jeff’s passion for fishing eventually took him to San Diego and in 1978, where after owning and running other boats, he built the Apollo. Jeff ran the Apollo sport fishing boat for over 20 years and became one of the most well respected sport fishing captains in San Diego. After selling his fishing businesses, he spent his time running a small home-based business and traveling extensively until 2024.

Though most people found Jeff to be a quiet man, he was actually known for his stories and his dark sense of humor. He loved traveling, music, nature, and a great glass of California Chardonnay or scoop of ice cream.

Jeff was eventually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and passed away peacefully at home. He is survived by his family, daughters Katrina (& Gavin) Lodge and Heather (& Chris) Calatrello, and his loving partner Norma Plante, who looked after him in his final days.

In lieu of any gifts, please consider making a donation in Jeff’s honor to Alzheimer’s San Diego.

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