Ray Anthony Jones, age 72, of Lampe, Missouri

Ray Anthony Jones, age 72, of Lampe, Missouri, passed away July 18, 2023, in Springfield, Missouri. He entered this life March 21, 1951, in Kirksville, Missouri, the son of William Wagner Jones and Anne Ancell Jones. Ray was joined in marriage May 30, 1998, to Ronna Haxby.

Ray was passionate about many things and participated in them with enthusiasm. He had 21 years in economic & community development and was integral in the regeneration of downtown Springfield, serving as Executive Director for the Downtown Springfield Assoc. He was also the Economic Development Director for Stone County for several years and was a great resource for many people.

He was a strong advocate for water quality and served on the board of James River Basin Partnership for many years. He almost never missed a River Rescue clean-up and worked diligently to promote the organizations efforts to keep the James River and Table Rock Lake clean and usable resources.

He was a soccer enthusiast and loved playing the game as long as he was able. He inspired many young people and helped build a soccer community while he managed the Lakes Country Youth Soccer Program.

Ray had a zest for life that was contagious. His greatest joy was being on the river in a kayak with his patented forearm “Penguin Paddles”. There was always a big smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye when he was on the river!

He loved music, nature, good conversation, interesting people and life in general. He was a brilliant, dynamic and informed conversationalist, a hard worker, a kind a caring friend to many, and an all-around good person. He will be missed by many.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents; brother Richard “Dickie” Jones; sister, Donna Hitchcock; brother, Rex Jones, and his four-legged family; Ella, Kiva, Ellie and Peppie.

He is survived by his wife and partner in life of thirty years, Ronna Haxby of Lampe, Missouri.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 p.m. to 4: 30 p.m. Sunday, August 27, 2023, at the Grand Haven Clubhouse and Pavilion at 6112 19th Ave, Ozark, MO 65721. Arrangement and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence or a memory, please visit www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.