Robert L. “Bob” Jones, 96, of Connersville

Robert L. “Bob” Jones, 96, of Connersville, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday evening, December 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

A lifelong resident of Fayette County, Bob was born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1929, to John Raymond and Mabel Neff Jones. He was a 1947 graduate of Connersville High School, where he was a member of the National Honor Society and served as the first President of the local FFA. His early years were defined by his dedication to the community and his ten-year involvement with 4-H.

Bob was a man who took immense pride in his work and his ability to build things that lasted. He spent 26 years as a Model Maker in the Engineering Model Shop for Ford, retiring in March 1992. He also dedicated seven years of service to Roots Blower Company.

Following his retirement, Bob and his wife, Frankie, enjoyed eighteen years in Florida, where he could often be found fishing on Lake Okeechobee. Back home in Indiana, Bob was an avid woodworker. His hands were rarely still; he crafted his signature toys, furniture, decks, and curved wood benches. His talent for construction even extended to his own home, where he added an entire room and hand-laid a stone fireplace, inside and out. Beyond his workshop, he enjoyed gardening, camping, and traveling.

On November 20, 1967, Bob married the former Ella “Frankie” Frances Keen in Connersville, and they shared over 58 years of devoted marriage.

He is survived by his wife, Frankie Jones; his children, Shannon F. Smith, Jeffrey (Kathy Clark) Jones, Jerry (Linda Kay) Jones, all of Connersville, and Jill Burke of Greenfield; his step-sons, Herman Jack (Becky) Flannery, and Michael Steven (Lori) Flannery, all of Connersville. His legacy lives on through 24 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; six sisters, Betty Lamont, Alice Moore, Margery Sizemore, Ellen Siler, Edith Mason, and Virginia Mason; a step-son, Jeffery Lee Flannery; a son-in-law, Tom Burke; a daughter-in-law, Rita Jones; and his first wife, Phyllis (Jobe) Allard.

Family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at the funeral home. Reverend Dustin Boehm will officiate. Burial will follow in Dale Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.