Obituary

In loving memory of Nathanael “Nate” Jones, who at just 45 years young, passed away unexpectedly on August 29, 2024, after a very short and aggressive battle with cancer.

Born on June 28, 1979, in Ripley, WV, Nate spent his final years in Saint Albans, WV. Nathanael was a very loving husband and wonderful father and is leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication. He is survived by his ride or die soulmate of 18 years and loving wife of 12+ years, Christine (Layne) Jones, and their children —13 year old daughter and daddy’s girl, Harlow “Jayce” Jones, and his ornery and sweet 4 year old son, Nolan Dre Jones. He is also survived by his birth daughter, Heather (formerly Nevaeh) Clapp. Although he did not get to raise her, he and his family hoped that if she so desired, to one day get to know and love her too.

His life was also enriched by the love, support and presence of his wonderful family. He is survived by his parents, Len and Marion Jones, older sisters, Robin Jones and April (Ron) Ross, nephew, Tony Brown (Matt Patterson) of Waco, TX, and nieces, Hannah (Mark) LaFlamme of Ripley, Alice (Cody) Ingold of St. Joseph, MO, and Katie Ross of Corpus Christi, TX. In addition, he’ll be missed by his huge family of seven uncles, nine aunts and 35 cousins.

Nathanael was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Holbert Lee and Flora Irene of Ripley, WV, and his maternal grandparents, Frank and Patricia Ann Stansell of Huachuca City, AZ.

Nate was a graduate of Ripley High School in 1998, and later earned a STIM 1 Degree in the Gas & Oil Industry. Although, he was very intelligent and skilled in many areas; in his case, one could even say a “Jack of All Trades, Master of … Most.” His career was predominantly in the gas and oil sector, holding various positions including Equipment Operators 1-4, Line Boss, Service Supervisor, and Treater. His profound expertise also led him to work most recently as a Class A CDL Truck Driver.

Beyond his professional life, Nate had a passion for tinkering and figuring out how things worked. He enjoyed pursuits ranging from welding, fixing and building anything he desired, to racing and customizing cars, working on electronics, shooting guns, and collecting a variety of treasures. In his earlier years, he loved skateboarding, playing the bass guitar, living life on the edge, and entertaining (or terrorizing) his town with extremely loud music. Ha! His hobbies definitely reflected his inquisitive and inventive spirit, as an adept and life long learner.

A memorial service and celebration of Nathanael’s wild and wonderful life will be held from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Waybright Funeral Home in Ripley, WV.

Visitation will be from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m., and the memorial from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.

Online memories and condolences may also be shared by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com.

Lastly, his family is now dealing with a financial crisis after Nate’s tragic and unforeseen illness overtook him so quickly. He had been their sole provider, working weeks away from home at a time. In addition, his wife has had to be the full-time caregiver for their autistic son, which made it very difficult for her to work. Therefore, if desired and in lieu of flowers, any kind of contributions to help aid them, are so greatly appreciated! Donations can be made at https://gofund.me/70a07d8. His family thanks you from the bottom of their hearts for also honoring Nathanael’s memory with your generosity, love and support.

Condolences may also be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.