It's with deep sadness, but even greater pride, that we announce the passing of Mr. Leroy Jones, Sr. known as "Mr. Leroy" or "Lawnmower Man," due to succumbing to his illness on March 22, 2026. At the age of 89. He was born on July 12, 1936. At an early age, he was baptized at Providence Baptist Church. He would visit Tabernacle Baptist Church in his later years.

Leroy leaves behind a legacy of perseverance that his family and friends will carry forward. He will be remembered not just for the length of his struggle, but for the grace and bravery he showed throughout it. He was a very giving man, and he would be truly missed by all. While his battle has come to an end, his spirit lives on through the family he loved so dearly. He is survived by his devoted son, Leroy Jones, Jr. (Vivian) and his devoted daughter, Dale Y. Turner.

His legacy and heart continues through his many grandchildren, Sharea (Cherish), Tanisha, Quiera, Crinshaul Turner III, Gemar (LaTonya), Raynold (Kim), Kenan, Darius, and Brandon; a host of great and great-great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His surviving siblings are Judith Massenburg, Evelyn Jones, Charlotte Jones, James Jones (Barbara), Herbert Jones, Ralph Jones; and his sister-in-law, Barbara McZeal.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary T. Jones; infant daughter, Jennifer; and his sons, Gene and Kenneth. Also preceded in death by his parents, Albert E. Jones and Florence M. Jones; brothers, Edward, Clifton, David, one grandson, Myron Jones; and his daughter-in-law, Marshell Jones; special friends, Sally Tucker, Earl Coleman, Neal Warren, Ray Cobb, Darlene Moore, and Robert Truly (cousin); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends too numerous to name.  Also, a special thanks to Ruth Mason his companion aide for eight years.

He was employed with Titmus and part-time at Holt's Jewelry. He later retired from both Brown & Williamson Tobacco Company and the City of Petersburg.

Mr. Leroy Jones, Sr. was a man of immense strength and courage. Throughout his life, and especially in his final chapters, he faced every challenge with a spirit that wouldn't quit. He didn't just endure he lived with purpose, showing us all what it means to be truly resilient. While our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that the battle is over and he is finally at peace.

He played baseball and became an umpire with the Virginia Central Baseball League. He was also an avid player with Brown & Williamson Baseball Team. On his free time, he enjoyed working on lawnmowers and spending time relaxing on his front porch. When he wasn't showing that trademark strength, you could often find him cheering on his favorite team. He was an avid Washington Commanders and NASCAR fan. Whether they won or lost, Leroy was a loyal fan through and through, and his family will always cherish the memories of him watching the games and rooting for his teams.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, Pastor Marvin Johnson, eulogist and the Rev. Allison Bland Tucker, officiating.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page.