James L.  (Jim) Jones, 65, of Bellmawr, NJ, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, April 25, 2021 at Cooper University Medical Center in Camden, New Jersey surrounded by his sons.

He was born in Erie, PA on December 7, 1955, son of the late Elizabeth Jones and James Stewart.

James was educated in the Erie Public School system, graduating from Academy High School, Class of 1974.  He attended the University of Pittsburgh where he met Arburta and became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Epsilon Kappa Chapter.  James was known by his brothers as "Hard Rock" and he proudly bore the Sigma brand on his arm as a symbol of his love and dedication to the fraternity.

James moved to Camden, New Jersey to marry the love of his life, Arburta (Betty) Cowherd in February 1982.  The thirty-two years marriage was blessed with two sons, Darnell Sinclair and Cedric Armstrong.  Though the marriage ended in divorce James and Arburta remained deeply committed to each other.   James was dedicated to being a sound influence in the lives of his sons and found great joy and comfort in their relationship.  James and his sons later moved to Bellmawr, New Jersey.

James was employed as a Corrections Officer at Riverfront and Southern State Correctional Facilities.  He later served as a Sargent at Rahway State Correctional Facility until his retirement.  Jim was respected by both coworkers and inmates as he showed respect for the humanity everyone.

James was a born again Christian and a member of Parkside United Methodist Church Camden, NJ.  He visited Greater Calvary Full Gospel Baptist Church whenever he was home.

James was an avid pool player and enjoyed the comradery of his associates at Kings Row Billiards.  He loved to read books across many subject matters, and was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and 76ers.  James was known for his big heart, friendly disposition and winning smile.

He was preceded in death by his mother Elizabeth Jones; Grandmother Bertha Jones; siblings Thomas, Bobby, and Patricia Jones.

He leaves to cherish his memory former wife/beloved friend Rev. Dr. Arburta Jones, sons Eric (Sherrie) Freeman Erie, PA, Darnell (Asia) Jones of Lansdowne, PA and Cedric Jones of Alexandria, VA; Five Sisters Carrie "Betty" Knight, Bertha Carson, Esker (Kenneth) Gore, Carmella Jones, and Mella  Ann  Lofton all of Erie, PA, aunt Mother Lucille Jones, special niece, Carla (Michael) Barnes, 15 Grandchildren, 6 Great- Grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Friends may visit with the family on Saturday May 8 ^th , 2021 from 9:00a.m. until 11:00 a.m., followed by the home going celebration at 11a.m. at the Greater Calvary Full Gospel Baptist Church, 2624 German St. Erie, PA  16504 with Bishop Jesse N. Gavin eulogizing.  Interment immediately following at Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery. Professional services are entrusted to Pitts Funeral Home, 2926 Pine Ave, Erie, PA 16504. ALL CDC GUIDELINES WILL BE FOLLOWED AND EVERYONE MUST WEAR A MASK.