James E.(Jim) Jones

James E. (Jim) Jones, a beloved husband, grandfather, and pillar of the Sumter community, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026. Born on October 21, 1953, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Jim was the cherished son of John T. Jones Sr. and Linda Adkins Jones, both of whom preceded him in death. Jim's journey began in Greensboro, but his life was deeply rooted in South Carolina, where he attended Wilson Hall School in Sumter. His academic pursuits led him to the University of South Carolina in Columbia, where he graduated with dual Bachelor's degrees in Business Management and Business Finance. A proud member of the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity and a dedicated Gamecock Club member for over 50 years, Jim's college years were foundational to his lifelong passion for business and community service. In 1980, Jim married the love of his life, Marsha White Jones, on a beautiful June day. Their partnership was a testament to unwavering love and mutual respect, and together they created a family filled with laughter and warmth. Jim found immense joy in his role as a father and grandfather to their six grandchildren, often sharing fun-filled moments and adventures with them. Jim's professional life was marked by a strong familial legacy in the automotive industry. As a third-generation dealer, he followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, James Laughton Jones, and father, John T. Jones Sr., by joining the family-owned Jones Chevrolet dealership alongside his brother. In 1990, Jim expanded his professional horizons by managing the newly acquired T. A. Davis Nissan and T.A. Davis Pontiac-GMC, demonstrating his adeptness in business and leadership. His commitment to the automotive industry was evident through his numerous roles, including serving on the Nissan Dealer Advisory Board and the Regional Advisory Board for Pontiac-GMC. Jim's excellence was recognized with the "Pontiac Master" dealer award three times, among other accolades. A man of faith and service, Jim and Marsha were dedicated members of two churches in Sumter. At Trinity Methodist Church, Jim served in various leadership roles, while at Christ Community Church, he played a pivotal role in land acquisition efforts. His community involvement extended to numerous boards and organizations, including the Sumter Sertoma Club, Rotary, and the Salvation Army, among others. Jim's heart was also touched by the Columbia University Prison Initiative, where he supported educational programs for inmates, demonstrating his belief in the power of redemption and education. Beyond his professional and philanthropic commitments, Jim cherished moments spent traveling with Marsha, working in his garden, and indulging in his passion for classic cars. His unique approach to selling cars, often leaving them in driveways for potential buyers to test at their leisure, earned him a special place in the hearts of many. Jim's legacy of kindness, dedication, and community service will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jim's memory to CCC, Sumter United Ministries, Wilson Hall, or USC Sumter, reflecting his lifelong commitment to education, faith, and community. Jim's life was a testament to the impact one person can have through love, service, and unwavering dedication. He will be dearly missed but forever celebrated by his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched.