Bill and Leota Later Years

 

        Bill and Leota were blessed with two grandchildren from their only son, Jeff. They welcomed their grandson, Shelby Ryan Jones, on September 7, 1975 and their granddaughter, Jenny Lynn Jones, on September 23, 1979. They loved spending time with their grandchildren and the kids would often visit their home after school.

        Shelby has many fond memories involving his grandparents. He considered Bill to be his best friend would walk to Jones Sundries after school to visit him. They would sometimes go to the grocery store to get a large box of oranges and use an old juice press to make fresh orange juice. When he was sick, Shelby would request to stay with Leota who would make him grilled cheese. This is still his favorite meal request when he isn't feeling well.

        Bill died suddenly in their home from a heart attack. It was about 4am on August 12, 1985 when he was 68 years old. Nine years later, Leota lost her battle with cancer and passed away on October 3, 1994 at the age of 74. They were buried next to each other at the Sumner City Cemetery in Sumner, Illinois.