Cora Lee Jones

Mrs. Cora Lee Collins Jones was born on December 9, 1933, to Rev. Clifton Jackson Collins and Mother Mary Eldee Livingston Collins in Mexia, Texas. She was number seven of eleven children born to this union: Clifton (CJ) Jackson Jr., Nobel (Harvey) Collins, Boyce Collins, Myrtle Williams, Thadeus Collins, Herman Collins, Zealuiar Nettles, Juanita Powers, Rosemary Miles, and Shirley Moore.

The Collins family's foundation was deeply rooted in faith, hard work, and service. Growing up, they worked together on farms and were active in their local church. This early devotion to God and family became the guiding principle for Mrs. Jones's life.

Faith, Marriage, and Church Service

On March 6, 1955, Mrs. Cora Lee Collins was united in holy matrimony to Mr. Harl Wendel Jones in Dallas, Texas. Together, they built a loving home rooted in faith and family. Their union was blessed with four beautiful daughters.

After marriage, Mrs. Jones and her husband relocated to Midland, Texas, where she faithfully followed God's plan for her life. She joined Ideal Baptist Church under the late Rev. I.M. Woodard, which later became Greater Ideal Baptist Church under the late Rev. Rase Gowans and continuing her service under Dr. George Bell.

Mrs. Jones was a gifted and devoted member of the church, serving for many years in numerous roles. She was a leader in the Sanctuary Choir, the Sunshine Choir, and the Junior Choir, blessing countless children and families through music. Mondays were especially joyful for her as she prepared and served meals for the children - a labor of love that brought her great happiness.

A talented cook, she could make a meal out of anything. Beyond her culinary gifts, she also served as Church Secretary, Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School Teacher, and Sunday School Musician. Mrs. Jones was a dedicated member of the Original West Texas Congress (OWT) and was known for her unwavering prayer life. Her faith was her anchor; she often said, "If God said it, I believe it."

Her granddaughter Kimberley fondly shared that she believed Mrs. Jones and Jesus Christ were first cousins - a reflection of her grandmother's closeness with God. Her love for the Lord was nothing short of extraordinary, and she dedicated her entire life to serving Him and others.

Family and Motherhood

Mrs. Jones was the proud mother of four beautiful daughters: Mary Wanda Shields, Carolyn Louise Nelson, Rosie Maria Gransberry, and Debra Ann Jones.

She was an involved, nurturing, and deeply loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her home was a refuge for children from the neighborhood - every child who came her way received the same love, guidance, and care as her own.

Her love for people was overwhelming and genuine. When the choir visited nursing homes, she was always the last to leave, determined to bring joy and encouragement to the residents.

Career and Work Ethic

Mrs. Jones was employed by the Truitt family for many years, where she helped raise their children and grandchildren with compassion and care. She later worked for Midland Independent School District (MISD) in the cafeteria and served as a school crossing guard - a job she truly loved because of the children she encountered daily.

Her strong work ethic and cheerful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

A Life Well Lived

Mrs. Jones lived a full and remarkable life. She traveled widely, met people from all walks of life, and inspired many with her faith and strength. She endured loss - including her husband, parents, and several siblings who preceded her in death - yet she never wavered in her devotion to God.

She often shared that at nine years old, she gave her life to Christ and made Him a promise: that she would serve Him for the rest of her days. She kept that promise faithfully.

Legacy and Loved Ones

Mrs. Jones leaves to cherish her memory her daughters: Mary Wanda Shields, Carolyn (Roy) Nelson, Rosie Gransberry, and Debra Jones; her siblings: Boyce Collins, Rosemary Miles, and Shirley (EV) Moore; as well as a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family from across the world.

She will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know her. Those whose lives she touched are better for it.

Final Words

If Mrs. Jones has touched your life, we pray that you are better because of it.

Celebration of a Life Well Lived

"Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things; come on up - I will make you ruler over many."

Matthew 25:23