Carrie M. Jones

Mother Carrie M. Jones, of Durham, North Carolina, peacefully passed away at her home on October 26, 2026, at the age of 89. Mother Jones was born on June 29, 1937, in Oriental, North Carolina, to Octavia Harvey and Jack Matthews. In 1960, she married Edmond “Kootie Brown” Jones Jr. From their union came two daughters, Francine Jones and Claretta Jones. She was a hardworking and dedicated woman who spent 40 years working as a factory line worker before retiring. Her years of service reflected the strength, determination, and work ethic that characterized much of her life. She worked hard and often made sacrifices so that her family could have what they needed. Providing for those she loved was one of the many ways Mother Jones expressed her love and devotion to her family. Mother Jones lived a quiet and simple life, but those who knew her knew there was much more behind her reserved nature. She could be funny and bring laughter to those around her, and she possessed a strong will that carried her through many seasons of life. She had her own mind and was not easily swayed. Her quiet strength, determination, and sense of humor were all a part of what made her uniquely herself. She found joy in life's simple pleasures. Mother Jones loved shopping, completing word searches, and settling in to watch reruns of old Westerns. These familiar pastimes brought her happiness and became everyday memories her family will cherish. Mother Jones was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edmond “Kootie Brown” Jones Jr.; her daughter, Francine Jones; her sisters: Madie Hall, Ella Robinson, Martha Mann and Ida Merrit; her brothers: Alexander "Buddy" Hall and James Best; her mother, Octavia Harvey; and her father, Jack Matthews. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Claretta Jones; her stepson, Marlow Gibbs; her granddaughters, Shariska (Corey) Shellman, Alexia Jones, and Sierra Hines; her grandson, Jerard Jones; and her great-grandchildren, Ja’micheal Jones, NyChelle Jones, Rafeal King Jr., Rahiem King, and Laila Jones. Mother Jones is also lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and others whose lives she touched throughout her 89 years. Though her presence will be deeply missed, Mother Jones leaves behind a legacy of hard work, quiet strength, sacrifice, perseverance, and love. Her life was not defined by seeking recognition, but by showing up, working hard, and making sure the people she loved were cared for. The sacrifices she made helped provide a foundation for the generations that followed her. Her family will remember not only what she did for them, but who she was—the laughter she brought, her strong will, her quiet ways, and the love she demonstrated through a lifetime of hard work and sacrifice. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.