Lois E. Jones

Obituary for Lois Epperson Jones

The world welcomed Lois Epperson Jones on December 2, 1931, in Pine Bluff,

Arkansas, the youngest daughter of George A. Epperson and Bertie L. Hill

Epperson. She grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings — Georgia M.

Jones, Velma Smith, and Houston Epperson — all of whom, along with her

ex‑husband Nathaniel Jones and grandson Shamar Gray Sr., preceded her in

death.

Lois’ life took its first big turn when her parents moved the family to California

during her pre‑teen years. She blossomed in Oakland, graduating from

McClymonds High School and later attending San Francisco City College,

where she studied business — a field that suited her sharp mind, steady discipline,

and quiet determination.

Her faith was a constant thread from childhood onward. Lois began her Christian

journey at Cooper A.M.E. Church in Pine Bluff. As an adult, she joined Bethel

Baptist Church in Oakland and was baptized in 1957 by the late Rev. Herbert

Guice. She poured her heart into church life — singing in the Bethel Chorus,

attending Sunday School and Bible class, and serving as the lead craft instructor

for Vacation Bible School. Her service was faithful and unwavering, continuing

into her later years when she relocated to Modesto in 1997 and held memberships

at Progressive Community Church of Stockton, Christ Unity of Modesto, and

Modesto Christian Center.

Professionally, Lois built a remarkable career. She retired after 30½ years from the

Oakland Naval Supply Center, where she served as an Administrative Supply

Supervisor. Retirement didn’t slow her down; she later returned to work within the

Union City and Modesto Unified School Districts as an Administrative Assistant,

continuing well into her late 80s. Her work ethic was simply part of who she was.

Creativity was another of Lois’ gifts. She loved arts and crafts, especially floral

design. Her hands were rarely still — she created beauty with intention and joy,

often selling her handmade pieces at local festivals. Those who knew her

understood her quiet, reserved nature and her deep independence. After her

divorce, she purchased a home in Modesto — a place she cherished, where she

enjoyed peaceful days and welcomed visits from friends and family.Even in her later years, she remained self‑sufficient; at age 90, she decided on her

own terms that it was time to park her car for good.

Lois and Nathaniel Jones shared 44 years of marriage, and though they eventually

divorced, they remained close friends until his passing. Together they raised a

blended family of six children. Lois is survived by four of her children — Patricia

A. Howard, Marcus E. Jones, Jeffrey K. Jones (Romaine), and Natalie A.

Pacheco (Rod) — as well as two step‑children, Linda Howard and Jackie Jones

(Pamela). She leaves behind nine grandchildren, a host of great‑grandchildren,

and one great‑great‑grandchild, and a loving circle of nephews, nieces, cousins,

and friends, each carrying a piece of her legacy.

Lois lived a life defined not by noise or spotlight, but by steadiness, devotion,

creativity, and quiet strength. She touched lives through her faith, her work, her art,

and the family she loved. Her story lives on in every person she shaped, every

lesson she taught, and every memory she leaves behind.

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