William Preston Jones, 85, entered his eternal rest on August 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 4, 1940, in Gates County, North Carolina to the late Mamie and Silas Jones, William’s early years were spent working as a sharecropper, learning the value of perseverance and integrity. As a young man he relocated to Washington, D.C., where he built a life of hard work, faith, and service.

On June 4, 1981, William married the love of his life, Sadie Jones, in the living room of his dear friends Bishop Lewis Tait, Sr. and Ann C. Tait, both of whom preceded him in death. Together they built a home filled with faith, laughter, and the spirit of true hospitality.

He was a proud father to Gloria Alston (Robert), Cheryl Gables (Neil), William Christopher Jones, Terazia Jones, and bonus daughter Shadonna Washington. He is survived by siblings Nellie Roundtree, Ada L. Rodgers & James Melvin Jones; and lovingly remembered by close friends Arlene Washington, Charlie Douglas, and Gary Lockhart. His legacy continues through his grandchildren Brittany (Christian), Diamond, Tre, Porsche, Jahni, Nyah, Jaurice, and Jurnee, and his great-granddaughter Amari; also cherished by Janae Alexander and Ella Cowser, .

William held many roles over the years — from sharecropper to bus boy, line cook, and ultimately taxi cab driver for Washington Cab Company (Yellow Cab #9) for more than 40 years — but his greatest work was in service to others. He was known for giving free rides to seniors, church members, and neighborhood children to school, and for visiting the sick and shut-in between his church and family duties.

Throughout his life, William endured and overcame extraordinary challenges and surviving serious injuries — and yet he remained a man of unwavering faith. Even as he walked beside various loved ones through their trials, he stayed prayerful, steadfast, and hopeful, trusting God to work all things for good.

A faithful Deacon at Faith Bible Church/New Covenant Faith Bible Church, William became a beloved member of Victory Christian Ministries International on April 17, 2011, serving joyfully as an Usher and Greeter. He was also a prayer warrior, rising at dawn each day for devotional time. Visitors to his home quickly learned they’d be up at 6 a.m. for hymns and Scripture, and William would never leave the house without leading his call-and-response affirmation and prayer:

“I should go forth, in the strength of my God, and I know I shall not fail, for the God whom I serve, shall perfect those things concerning me, in Jesus’ name, Amen!”

Those who knew William will remember his kind eyes, infectious laugh, sharp sense of style, and the way he opened his home and heart to all—often offering a home-cooked meal or a slice of his famous sweet potato pies and cobblers. A man of quiet strength and deep faith, he lived by the principle of treating people as God would want. He loved reading his Bible and daily devotionals, baking for his loved ones, attending VCMI, spending time with his family, and supporting television ministries. He often delighted in asking people to guess his age and would proudly share it, smiling as he declared, “I’m going to live until I’m 100.”

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made via Ever Loved in William’s memory.

William Preston Jones will be remembered for his unwavering faith, generosity, and the love he poured into his family and community. His presence will be deeply missed but his example will continue to guide those who knew him.

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Acknowledgments

The family of William Preston Jones wishes to extend heartfelt thanks for the many prayers, visits, calls, and acts of kindness during our time of loss. Special thanks to the pastors, staff, and members of Victory Christian Ministries International, our extended family, and friends who stood by us. We also acknowledge the continued love and support of former and extended family members who remain dear to our hearts. Your thoughtfulness and presence are a comfort and blessing to us all.

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