Dr. Curtis Jones peacefully passed at his home in Grand Rapids, Michigan on March 7, 2025, at the age of 86. He was married to his loving wife Constance Jones (nee Cummings) for almost 63 years. He was a loving father to Catherine (Dan) Jones- Rikkers Carlin (Greg) Bylsma and Curtis (Meghan Meyers) Jones Jr. He was the proud grandfather of Grace (Nick) Roten, Daniel Rikkers, Finnian Bylsma, Ellary Bylsma and Gideon Jones-Rikkers and great grandson Cooper Roten. Curtis is survived by his dear sister Bette Boulding, and much-loved brothers Eugene (Laforne) Jones, Larry Jones and Terry (Diane) Jones along with a wealth of cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family. Special recognition to Jodi (Bob Woodhouse) TerMolen for her care, generosity and love over many years. He is preceded in death by his parents Benjamin Curtis and Geraldine (McDaniel) Jones, and brothers Daniel Jones, Jerry Jones, and sister in-law Nancy Jones.

For Curt, his faith and family came first. He served his faith community as a lay reader, senior warden, and even led services in the absence of the priest. Curt loved his family unconditionally. He and Constance, much to the joy of their children and grandchildren, attended every event in which they participated.

Dr. Jones was a brilliant, accomplished and greatly admired educator. He earned his PhD in Sociology from Michigan State University in 1974 and spent much of his career as an award-winning Professor of Sociology at Grand Valley State University. Curtis' research and service, like his life, also centered on the family. His master's thesis and PhD dissertation both focused on family dynamics in marginalized populations and led to many subsequent articles and presentations covering the topic.

Curt loved the outdoors, riding his Harley and sports. An athlete throughout his life, his opponents on the football field and basketball and tennis courts can attest to his fierce competitive spirt and physical gifts. Curt grew up on a centennial dairy farm in Byron Center, Michigan and this led to his passion for hunting and fishing. He was a master angler, a charter boat captain and an avid hunter.

Curt loved mentoring young people and was a father figure to many, cultivating meaningful lifelong connections. Curt saw value in everyone he interacted with and could make friends with anyone. Those fortunate enough to call him a true friend were warmed by his kindness, deep loyalty and sense of humor. As a person of faith and family man he put love in the center of his world and through outreach, he created a ripple effect of love and light.

Dr. Curtis Jones

- Celebration of Life -

May 22, 2025,

Cook-DeWitt Center 10720 N. Campus Drive, Allendale, MI 49401

(Located on the Campus of Grand Valley State University).

5-5:30pm - Greet the family;

5:30-6pm - Brief ceremony of remembrance and prayers;

6-8pm - Celebration with food, beverages, champagne toast and birthday cake.

Please feel free to join us for any or all parts of the evening