Captain John Allison "Ruff" Jones passed away Thursday, March 9, 2017. A lifelong Hampton resident, he was a past member of the Virginia Pilots Association for 39 ½ years and served on the Board of Directors for several terms.

After his retirement, Ruff still treasured watching ships transiting the harbor from his home overlooking the Hampton Roads. He was a member of the Hampton Yacht Club where he also served on the Board of Directors.

Captain Jones was preceded in death by his parents, Curle L. Jones and Elaine M. Jones; and his brother, Richard Lee Jones. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Bonnie H. Jones; his brother, Charles Cary Jones; his son, Capt. J.A. "Jack" Jones Jr. and wife Christine; daughter, Lynne J. Hutton and husband Chris; his grandchildren, John A. Jones III and wife Carmen, Ann H. Heaslip and husband Kevin, Mary Albert H. Latrick and husband Matt; and four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank, more than they can, the Wythe Rescue Squad and the doctors, nurses and staff at Sentara Careplex Hospital.

A graveside service will be conducted at 1:00 pm, Saturday, March 18, 2017 in St John Cemetery by the Rev. Samantha Vincent Alexander. Following the service, a reception will be held at the Hampton Yacht Club.

Memorials may be made to St. John's Episcopal Church, 100 W. Queens Way, Hampton, VA 23669 or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements through R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.