William Henry Jones, Jr., known to so many simply as Bill, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 14, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was born on June 5, 1949, in Connersville, Indiana, and leaves behind the memory of a life marked by faith, warmth, friendship, conversation, and a generous heart.

Bill wore many hats throughout his working life. He was a truck driver for Ryder, worked at JCPenney, and for his most cherished roles, served as a Peer Support Specialist, and worked in education at Kalamazoo Public Schools. Wherever he worked, Bill brought with him a strong spirit of service and a genuine desire to help others. He was deeply customer-service oriented, but more importantly, he had a way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and cared for.

Bill moved through life with a style and spirit all his own. He had an eccentric personality and was known for confidently wearing his leggings and Uggs. His contagious smile and easygoing nature made it nearly impossible to meet Bill without remembering him. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. To know Bill was to know someone who treated people like family, whether they had known him for years or had just met him.

His friendships stretched across the United States, and he maintained those connections throughout the years with a loyalty and affection that spoke to the kind of person he was. Bill had a rare gift for making people feel at home in his presence.

Bill found joy in many things. He loved horses, motorcycles, and especially big trucks. He enjoyed smooth jazz, good food, and, perhaps just as much, the good company that made a meal memorable. He loved the beach and being near the water, with South Haven holding a special place in his heart. The quiet beauty of the shoreline offered him moments of peace, reflection, and joy. These simple pleasures reflected Bill's ability to appreciate both adventure and serenity.

At the center of Bill's life was his faith. He was a longtime member of Calvary Bible Church, where he worshiped and served for more than 30 years. The church community became like family to him. Bill was a deeply devoted Christian, and his faith shaped the way he lived, loved, and cared for others. He journaled daily about his relationship with the Lord, a personal expression of devotion that remained an important part of his life.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Henry Jones, Sr., and his mother, Ozella Bates Evans.

He is remembered with great love by several people, among those his longtime friend, Lisa (Joshua) Newberry, and their daughters, Jocelyn and Aivery Newberry, who shared with him a close and meaningful family bond. He also leaves behind countless friends across the country whose lives were brightened by his kindness, his conversation, his humor, and his enduring friendship.

Bill's life was one of faith, friendship, service, and individuality. He will be remembered for his open heart, his unmistakable smile, his love of conversation, and the gracious way he made room for others in his life. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and at home—and that gift will not be forgotten.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Calvary Bible Church, 855 S. Drake Rd., Kalamazoo, MI 49009. His celebration of life will commence with visitation from 10:00 am until time of service at 11:00 am, followed by a luncheon.

Bill's memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.