H. Wayne Jones, age 75, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Born on April 9, 1951, in Spiro, Oklahoma, and raised in Orangeville, Illinois, Wayne was the beloved son of the late Hubert Jones and Dorothy Jones.

 Throughout his life, he was known for his sharp mind, kind heart, and unwavering willingness to help others.Wayne devoted his career to civil engineering, where his natural talent for problem-solving and practical efficiency became hallmarks of his work. He developed a deep passion for the asphalt industry and took great pride in teaching and mentoring others throughout his career. His knowledge and expertise earned him the affectionate nickname "The Asphalt Doctor," a title he wore with pride. Wayne was the person everyone turned to when something needed fixing or a solution needed to be found. Fascinated by gadgets and driven by his endless curiosity about how things worked, he never met a challenge he wasn't willing to tackle. His ingenuity was matched only by his gift for storytelling. Whether sharing memories, life lessons, or humorous tales, Wayne had a remarkable way of captivating those around him and leaving them with a smile.Those who knew Wayne best will remember him as a caring and loving man who expressed his affection through life's simple moments. One of his sweetest traditions was leaving handwritten Post-it notes for his beloved partner, Sherry-tucked onto her pillow, waiting by the coffee pot, or hidden in places where she would least expect them to brighten her day. These small but thoughtful gestures reflected the tremendous love he carried for those closest to him.

Above all else, Wayne cherished his family. After finding love with Sherry, he embraced not only her but the family they built together. He was a devoted father, a loving bonus father, and a proud "Papa" to nine grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Whether by birth or by choice, family was everything to Wayne, and the love they shared brought him immeasurable joy and many of life's most treasured memories.

Wayne leaves behind to cherish his memory his partner, Sherry Schmidt; his son, Timothy Jones (Jennifer); his daughter, Amanda Edwards; his bonus daughters, Michele Carter (Randy), Nichole Schmidt (Chris Redding), and Elizabeth Roszell (Trent); his cherished grandchildren, Callie Jones, Warren Jones, Sofia Edwards, Gabrielle Redding, Hannah Redding, Grace Carter, Aiden Carter, Nolan Roszell, and Gwen Roszell; and his sister, Sharon Heavener. 

He is now reunited with his beloved first wife, Diane Kay Jones; his parents, Hubert Jones and Dorothy Jones; and his sister, Vickey Moore.Wayne's legacy of kindness, wisdom, and generosity will live on through the countless lives he touched. His memory will forever be cherished by his family, his friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.