James S. Jones Jr.

James Samuel Jones Jr., of Minneapolis, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at Hennepin County Medical Center following a brief illness. James was surrounded by his loving family. He was 67 years old.

James was a retired car salesman of 30 plus years and is best know as the “car man” and “the tallest salesman on 494.”  James worked for most of the car dealerships in the Twin Cities area most notably at Airlake Ford and Farmington Ford. James never turned off from being a car salesman. He could tell you anything and everything about cars and always tried to sell a car to everyone he met no matter who you were. James was a man of many interests and loved to read.  He was an avid sports fan and loved the Timberwolves and Gophers. His daily routine included watching all the sports talk shows and basketball, football, tennis and golf games. He most enjoyed calling his son Samuel and debating about sports.  

James is loved by all his family, especially his nieces and nephews.  He was notorious for showing up at many family events with his sense of humor and quick wit. Each one remembers him in their own special way especially encouraging them to pursue higher education and athletic dreams. He never missed an opportunity to take a photo with his siblings and other family members. At every family event he always made his “famous baked beans” and always wanted to know “did you taste the beans yet?”

His greatest joy in life was his wife Debra of 44 years and son Samuel, whom he loved to talk about often. When his son Samuel was born he was so happy and proud. He never lost his enthusiasm talking about Samuel and bragging on his accomplishments.  He really loved his family.

James leaves to cherish his memory his wife Debra and son, James “Samuel” Jones III; one sister Faith (Wally) Nemitz; three brothers William Perry (Dawn) Jones, Michael (Carolyn Anderson) Jones and Fred (Erica Reed) Jones; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents father, James Samuel Jones, Sr., and mother Emma Jones; sisters Mary, Judy and Tammy Jones, and brothers Lamont and John Jones.

Funeral Service at 12:00 NOON on Friday, May 18th at Dayton Avenue Presbyterian with visitation one hour prior, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial at Elmhurst Cemetery.

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