James Porter Jones was born March 20, 1938 in Medford, Oregon to parents Bernie and Esther (Dewitt) Mershon. He died April 13, 2017 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD at the age of 79.

Jim grew up in the San Fernando Valley of southern California. He served in the Navy and then lived and worked in various places in the United States.  He moved to Beresford, SD in 1988 and worked at Truck Towne until his retirement.  His hobbies and interests were many and included golfing, collecting guns, hunting, and cooking.  He was an avid survivalist and enjoyed having coffee with his friends.  Jim's character was as colorful as the life and experiences that led him to Beresford.  He was a one-of-a-kind and if you had the opportunity to meet him, you would never forget him.

He is survived by five children: Jennifer (Mike) Vennard, Centerville, SD, Esther (Clint) Zoss, Sioux Falls, Christopher (Joyce) Reeves-Jones, Glen Burnie, MD, Chuck (Wendee) Jones, Stillwater, MN and James (Cindy) Jones, Jr., Purcellville, VA; 16 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents and two sons, Larry and John.

A memorial gathering will be held Monday, April 17 from 5PM to 7PM at the Bridges at Beresford Events Center.