Gloria J. Jones 1962-2024
AUSTINTOWN — Gloria Jean Jones, 62, affectionately known to her loved ones as “Goo Goo,” gained her angel wings in the early morning hours of Sunday, Dec.15, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital.
She was born Oct. 28, 1962, in Youngstown, a daughter of Jack W. and Dorothy G. Whiteside Gardner.
Gloria was a lifelong resident of Youngstown and a 1980 graduate of East High School. She left pieces of her heart everywhere she went. Gloria was best known for her huge heart and infectious laugh. She impacted all those around her with her generosity, love, kindness and amazing sense of humor.
Gloria was passionate about crafting beautiful things, especially for Christmas. She looked forward to blessing others with her creations and cookie trays at Christmas time. She was a wonderful cook and loved to bake, and she was known to effortlessly create Christmas magic for her children and loved ones.
Gloria leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband, John P. Jones Jr., whom she married Oct. 28, 2000. She also leaves behind her loving mother, Dorothy Gardner; son, Freddy (Kylie Alexander) Mercado; daughters, Mandy (Nicholas Dominic) Mercado and Natalie (Vincent) Marbley; her stepchildren, Marie (Dustin) Shetterley, Amy Jones and John P. Jones III; her sisters, Terri Valentino, and Lorrie Gardner and her son, Brandon, who is going to miss his “Goria”; her brother, Jack Gardner; her beloved grandchildren, Nicholas (Lezlee), Janessa (Paul), Greyson, Trey, Jakobi and Amir; step-grandchildren, Chandler, Jo Lynn, John Paul IV, Victoria, Courtney and Dustin; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Waiting at Heaven’s gate to welcome her is her father, Jack; her son, Joseph Mercado; grandparents, Walter and Lena Whiteside, and Elmer and Millie Gardner; and several aunts and uncles.
Memorial services for Gloria will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 23, 2024, at Lane Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 5797 Mahoning Ave., Austintown, with Pastor Dave Watkins officiating.
Friends may call 1 to 2 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
“Merry Christmas, Mommy. We love you.”
This obituary may be viewed and condolences can be sent by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.
(special notice)