On Feb. 7, 2022, George Austin Jones, 92, left this earth and his worn out body to be with Jesus and his new heavenly perfect eternal body. He was born Oct. 9, 1929 in Balmorhea, Texas, to Henry Austin and Margaret Winifred Davis Jones.

George married Barbara Rea Fortson of Fort Stockton, Texas, on Aug. 1, 1952. They have two children, Jerry, married to Cindy Kerby, and Jim, married to Kimberly Evans.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Samuel, Henry, and John; and sisters Billie, Anneta Heinen, and Joan Cockerell.

He is survived by his wife “Babs” of 70 years, their children Jerry and Cindy, and Jim and Kimberly; grandchildren Andrew, Derek, Zachary, Tyler, and Kendall; great grandchildren Austin, Parker, Caleb, Jackson, Kyle, and Witten Asher; and nieces and nephews.

After a tour in the U.S. Navy, George was a farmer near Van Horn, Texas. Turning to a career in law enforcement, he started as city marshall of Van Horn, then chief deputy sheriff in Culberson County. He later served as a police officer for the City of Midland, Texas. He followed up as chief deputy in Brewster County, Alpine, Texas, before leaving to serve as a narcotics officer for the Texas Department of Public Safety. George was also elected and served as sheriff of Brewster County, living in Alpine for many years.

Other adventures included owner and operator of the Study Butte store near Big Bend National Park, plus foreman for several ranches in Brewster County. He was a successful photographer and businessman, a grand master in the Masons, an avid fisherman, and all around outdoorsman. George and Barbara spent many years RVing all over the country, then settling down in San Angelo, Texas, to be with their sons and their families.

Overall, George had a rich and rewarding life with family being the center of his life. He left a legacy of service through his Navy and law enforcement career.

The family wishes to extend heart felt thanks and support to Hospice of San Angelo for walking the family through the final days with George, and the support and service of Johnson’s Funeral Home here in San Angelo.

Thank you Lord for this man that led and loved and believed in God and family. Thank you, Jesus!