William Darrell Jones, 78, of Harrison, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024 at home on Gaither Mountain surrounded by his family.

The son of William "Binum" and Oza (Criner) Jones was born August 23, 1945 in Haskell, Oklahoma.  He was a graduate of Boynton High School and a proud US Army veteran.

Soon after marrying the love of his life, Darrell moved his family to Newton County, Arkansas in 1969. He was the owner of Ozark Café for 22 years and very involved in civic organizations. He served on the Jasper City Council for 12 years, Jasper Volunteer Fire Department over 20 years, Fire Chief 12 years, Fire Board 15 years, and O.M.A.R.T. Board 3 years. He was a charter member of the Scenic 7 Association, Newton County Jaycee's, Newton County Junior Rodeo and Little Britches Rodeo. He was the first investor in Newton County Health Clinic and member of Newton County Chamber of Commerce.

Darrell enjoyed gardening and traveling. He loved fish fry's, jeep riding and listening to his favorite bands play. He was a member of the 530 Jeep Club. Darrell was also a gifted storyteller. He loved a captive audience for sharing his stories or strong political views.

Darrell always considered Newton County home. He loved its residents and its history. He was considered an oral historian of the county and loved to share facts and stories of his beloved Newton County. More than anything, Darrell loved his family. They always came first. He loved being PaPa and treasured time spent with family and friends.

Darrell left a legacy of love for his family, volunteerism, and love of community that will be remembered for decades.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Donald "Peck" Jones.

Darrell is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patricia Jones; four children, Sheryl (Alan) Iveson, Teresa (Brent) Jones, Steven (Tracy) Jones, and Cameron Jones; a brother, Ronnie "Doc" Jones (Angie) and a sister, Janice Beck; 10 grandchildren, Chasitee Arthur, Chelsie Floyd, Kelyn Eddings, McKenzie Iveson, Justice Iveson, Jakob Jones, Bannon Jones, Cayman Jones, Jayce Jones, and Haven Jones; 5 great grandchildren, Liam, Lincoln, Tiegan, Ozie, and Rivee; and several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who loved him and will miss him.

Funeral service will be at 2 PM, Friday, July 26 at Coffman Funeral Home in Jasper with Pastor Roy Ragland officiating. Burial will follow at Jasper Cemetery.

Visitation will be Thursday from 6 PM to 8 PM at the funeral home.

Pallbearers are Brent Jones, Alan Iveson, Jayce Jones, Jakob Jones, Bannon Jones, Justice Iveson, Hunter Arthur, Trent Floyd, Dylan Eddings, and Liam Arthur.

Honorary pallbearers are Bill Haight, Jerry Norvell and the 530 Jeep Club, and his Fish Fry Buddies.

Flowers are welcome or contributions in Darrell's memory can be made to Jasper Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 434, Jasper, AR, 72641 or in person at Jasper City Hall.

On-line condolences can be left at www.coffmanfh.com.