Melton Thomas Jones

Revised visitation and service times

Melton Thomas Jones, age 79, of Tennille, passed away on January 28, 2024, at his residence after a brief illness.  A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 am Friday, February 9, 2024, at Bethany Baptist Church on Hartsford Road, Tennille.  Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at May and Smith Funeral Home.  Interment will be private.

Melton was born on May 21, 1944, the son of the late Thomas Sanford Jones and Anna B. Jones Giles.  Melton is survived by his loving wife of fifty-six years, Betty Holmes Jones; daughters, Sharon Jones and Dianna Armstrong (Jimmy); grandchildren, Daniel Kay, Erica Kay and Wilson Armstrong; siblings, Elanor Smart (Everett), Diane Tatum (Wayne), and Hal Jones; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Melton was a graduate of Washington County High School.  After completing high school, Melton remained on the family farm, working alongside his father.  He knew as a young boy his passion was farming and instead of playing, he wanted to spend his time on the tractor with the farm employees.  After many years of hard work, Melton was awarded Farmer of the Year in 1983 by the Jaycee’s.  He loved the land and spent many hours riding through the fields taking pride in a hard day’s work.  He was very sociable and enjoyed hosting family and friends at the cabin on Jones Farm.  Anyone who met him knew he was quite the character and quick witted.  He loved to prank and referred to many people with his own pet nicknames.

Melton was very active and volunteered in his community. He was a member of Washington County Farm Bureau, serving as President in 1977; served on the first Young Famer’s Committee in Georgia; served on Congressman J. Rowland’s agricultural advisory committee. Melton was also a board member of the Production Credit Association (now called Ag Georgia Farm Credit), the Memorial Hospital Board (now WCRMC), member of Tennille Rotary Club. He was also active in his church, Bethany Baptist Church, serving as Treasurer and Jr Deacon.  Melton loved Washington County and served as County Commissioner of Washington County for several terms.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethany Cemetery Fund, 3078 Mt. Gilead Rd. Tennille, Georgia.

Online condolences may be made at www.mayandsmithfuneraldirectors.com

May & Smith Funeral Directors is in charge of these arrangements.