Terry Dean Jones

Terry Dean Jones, age 81, of Allen, TX, died peacefully on September 19, 2025, at T. Boone Pickens Hospice and Palliative Care Center after a brief and unexpected illness. He was born on November 22, 1943, in Albany, CA, to Ralph and Garnett Jones. Terry and his younger brother grew up in the Houston area and had a childhood filled with the typical mischievous antics of boyhood. Terry enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1966. He was in Air Defense Artillery Operations and was an Intelligence Assistant stationed at Fort Bliss, TX. After his time in the service, Terry enrolled in college at the University of Texas at Arlington, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering in 1973. He married Carolyn Duke on May 28, 1971, and enjoyed almost 42 years of marriage until her death in 2012.

Terry excelled in the field of sales in his young adult life. He could sell almost anything and he could connect easily with anyone he encountered. During his sales career, he traveled to Europe and other parts of the world, but always returned with a sense of pride and appreciation for living in the U.S. Eventually, his entrepreneurial spirit took over, and he decided to venture into the world of business ownership. For many years, he owned a small business that provided security systems to individuals and local businesses. He was a hard worker and dedicated to his craft right up until the end of his life.

Terry enjoyed running his business, collecting coins, watching Westerns, and taking care of his family and his dogs. He always had a funny story or a silly joke to share with others, as he loved making people smile. His biggest joy in life was being a hands-on father and grandfather. He was the epitome of a true family man. Terry fulfilled many roles over the years: Indian Princess Chief; Little League Assistant Coach; Jones Family Pet Funeral Director and Pet Cemetery Caretaker; and Roller-Skating-, Dance-, and Cheer-Dad, just to name a few. He never missed a school assembly, choir or band concert, or any activity that was important to the people he loved. Although he enjoyed watching sports like football and boxing, he never minded being a “Girl Dad.” Later in his life, he became a caregiver for his mother when she struggled with Alzheimer's. Terry’s entire life was dedicated to helping and caring for others, be it family, friends, neighbors, employees, or animals in need.

Terry is survived by his daughters, Tracy Jones and Holly Jones, both of Irving, TX; a granddaughter, Terri Lynn Westerman, of Dallas, TX; family members in Michigan, East Texas, and Houston, TX; and many friends. He is also survived by his furry companions, Gracie and Miles. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Garnett Jones; his brother, David Jones; and his loving wife, Carolyn Jones.

Terry will be remembered most for his generous spirit and love for his family. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in the coming weeks for friends and family. In place of flowers, memorial donations can be made to charities Terry supported: Wounded Warriors Project; My Pig Filled Life Mini-Pig Rescue in Wills Point, TX; ASPCA; or any local organization that helps animals. The best way to honor Terry’s memory is to continue his legacy of working hard, showing up for the people you love, being kind to animals, and helping others.