Alan Lee Jones passed away in his home in Thornton, Colorado on Tuesday, February 18th, 2020 at the age of 64. He was born in Fairbanks, Alaska on July 25th, 1955 to Gayle and Helen Jones. Later, in 1960 Helen married Douglas McClure, who then raised Alan from the age of 5. Alan was married for 36 years to Pamela Jones (daughter of Frank and Elvira McEachern), and they had 3 children: Douglas Alan Jones of Georgetown, South Carolina; Dustin Malcolm Jones of Clermont, Florida; and Crystal Marie Jones of Clermont, Florida. His oldest son Douglas has one daughter Magnolia. His son Dustin and wife Krystal have 3 daughters: Emerald, Jayde, and Amethyst. His daughter Crystal is lovingly raising her fur babies. Alan had two brothers and two sisters: Danny Jones, Cindy (Jones) Lacey, David Jones, and Polly (McClure) Tams. He is survived by his mother Helen, father Doug, his brothers and sisters, his three children, four grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and a host of long-time friends and neighbors.
After graduating from Arvada Senior High School, Alan proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 20 plus years from 1975-1995. He served during the Persian Gulf War and retired as an E-8. His exemplary service included 5 deployments (equating to 2 years and 1 month out to sea), and several duty stations that include: the USS Detroit, USS Ranger, USS Robert G Bradley, USS Yosemite, USS Mount Baker, and USS Santa Barbara. During his years of service, he had numerous responsibilities. Some of note were: Recruiter (Jacksonville, FL); Instructor, Armorer, and Course Developer (Great Lakes, IL); Leading Senior Chief Gunners Mate (USS Mount Baker); Missile Launcher System Maintainer (USS Ranger); Security and Ammunition Maintainer (USS Detroit). His awards include National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (5), Good Conduct Medal (5), Navy Recruiter Ribbon, Navy Achievement Medal (2), Navy Commendation Medal, and Battle "E" Award. This provided him the opportunity to travel the world and experience several cultures and naval ports that many people can only dream of. Countless memories, pictures, and souvenirs were collected throughout his entire Naval career. A plethora of letters were handwritten, many tears of joy and sadness were shed, and so much love was shared.
Alan loved hunting and fishing and caught countless fish in his lifetime. Along with this were the stories of "the ones that got away". Camping was another hobby he loved, whether in a tent or a trailer. Spending time with friends and family was also very important to him. Alan was usually the life of the party, always cracking jokes that were usually inappropriate, but hilarious. He loved making people laugh. His strong support system after his wife passed away were his three dogs Bella, Sassy, and Chewy. He loved his three dogs dearly, and they kept him company during life's trials. Alan was one of the smartest men one would ever meet. He was fascinated with history of all types, and loved to read magazines. He provided good advice, had an ear for music, was an excellent handyman and automotive technician, and also acquired an interest in survival preparedness in recent years. You could call him at any time to ask questions, and he always knew the answers. Alan was an expert regarding firearms, and enjoyed the practice and challenges at the shooting range. He will always be remembered for his ballcaps, button up shirts, military haircuts, and his impeccable mustache.
He will be greatly missed. "Fair winds and following seas", Sailor. Â