John Mark Jones

Bro. John Mark Jones, 67, of Forest, Mississippi, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, July 27, 2026.

Mark was born on November 21, 1958, in Forest, Mississippi, to Rev. Kenneth and Thenetia Jones.

Above all else, Mark loved Jesus Christ and faithfully dedicated his life to serving Him. As a minister of music, he spent decades leading others in worship, sharing the Gospel through song, and encouraging countless people in their walk with the Lord. His unwavering faith was evident not only in the church, but in the way he loved and cared for those around him every day.

Throughout his ministry, Mark faithfully served as Minister of Music at Calvary Baptist Church in Newton, Mississippi; First Baptist Church in Stonewall, Mississippi; Mt. Horeb Baptist Church in Meridian, Mississippi; Mt. Horeb Baptist Church in Seminary, Mississippi; Trinity Baptist Church in Carthage, Mississippi; Long Avenue Baptist Church in Port St. Joe, Florida; First Baptist Church in Carthage, Mississippi; First Baptist Church in Batesville, Mississippi; and Leesburg Baptist Church in Leesburg, Mississippi. His passion for worship and his love for God’s people touched countless lives throughout the years.

Mark was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 46 years, Gale Gardner Jones. He was a proud Daddy to his children, Melanie Jones and Brian (Stephanie) Jones, and an even prouder Papa to his grandchildren: Sydnee Stokes, Hadlee Stokes, Knox Stokes, Lyndi Jones, and Landyn Jones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Kenneth and Thenetia Jones; his brother, David Jones; his sister, Carol Ann Jones; and his precious granddaughter, Sydnee Claire Stokes, whom he loved very much.

Those who knew Mark will remember his servant’s heart, steadfast faith, gentle spirit, and deep love for his family. Whether leading a congregation in worship, spending time with his family, or offering words of encouragement, he pointed others to Christ through both his words and his life.

Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we rejoice in the promise that he is whole again, singing praises in the presence of the Savior he faithfully served throughout his life. His legacy of faith, worship, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.