(Frank) Ray Jones, 86

Ray Jones passed away peacefully on April 20, 2020, at the Springs of Whitefish after a long illness of dementia.

Ray married Iris Stokes on Nov. 5, 1954. Together they had three children and raised Judy Stokes, Iris’s sister.

He was drafted into the Army shortly after he married and was stationed in Hawaii for two years. Upon returning he was employed with Plum Creek Timber Co. of Columbia Falls until his retirement at age 62. Over the years he worked many jobs, from cattle ranching to construction, to provide for his family.

After retiring, Ray and Iris stayed active with their dahlia garden, Homestead Gardens. They were members of the Dahlia society and cultivated many friends. Homestead Gardens grew from a hobby to a business, shipping dahlia bulbs all over the world. Ray enjoyed fresh-cut flower sales, largely due to the people who came to the garden. He loved interacting with the people as much as they loved him.

Ray is survived by his wife Iris Jones of Whitefish; daughter Sindy Robinson and husband Jeff of Spokane; son Roger Jones and wife Mary of Kalispell; two grandsons Brandon Robinson and Chad Jones; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by grandson Caleb Jones; granddaughter Ashlee Robinson; and daughter Bonnie Jones.

The family would like to thank everyone for their support and prayers during this time. Ray’s smile will be greatly missed.

Graveside services will be held at a later date at Fairview Cemetery.