Wilburn David “Willie” Jones, Jr., 81, of LaFayette, Ga. passed away on Friday, November 6, 2026 of an apparent heart attack. The Folkston native and Christian had lived in Wayne County for many years prior to being transferred with the Georgia State Patrol to several locations in his tenure of service. On retirement, he settled in LaFayette and enjoyed traveling and spending time with his family. The U.S. Army Veteran served in the Vietnam War and was the recipient of the Purple Heart Award. His parents, W.D. “Farmer” and Kathleen Jones preceded him in death along with his sister, Susan J. Harris; brothers, Lindsay and Scott Jones; brother-in-law, Dwight Dunham.

Survivors are his wife of 60 years, Diane Ring Jones of LaFayette; a daughter, Katrina (Micky) Francis of LaFayette; brother, Johnny (Vivian) Jones and sister, Kathie Dunham, both of Jesup; sister-in-law, Janette Westberry Jones of Jesup; grandchildren, Victoria Doris and Zachary Doris.

Funeral services will be 11 AM Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at Rinehart Chapel with Dr. Patrick Singh and Mike Welch officiating. Interment will be in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville with full military honors.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.