Joseph Sherwood Jones, age of 88, of Chesapeake, VA, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. Born in Beulaville, North Carolina, he was the third of eight children to Florence Thigpen Jones and Billy Pigford Jones. Joseph was a believer in Christ and deeply devoted to his family.
Joseph, lovingly known as Sherwood, moved to Chesapeake—formerly Old Norfolk County—at an early age, and remained a lifelong resident of the community he cherished. He attended Oscar F. Smith High School and went on to honorably serve his country in the Army National Guard.
Following his National Guard service, Joseph dedicated his professional life to the Norfolk Naval Air Station, working as a Civil Service Engineer. Outside of his federal career, he also found fulfillment in building homes throughout Chesapeake, leaving a lasting mark on the community in many ways.
A man of integrity, kindness, and inner strength. He was an enthusiastic sports fan and found great joy and peace on the golf course, where he spent countless hours perfecting his swing and enjoying the company of friends.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 66 years, Barbara Ann Jones; daughters, Rhonda McDougall (Gene) and Leigh Jones; and his beloved grandchildren—known to them as Grandaddy, aka Big Baby—Cody McDougall, Lacey Hodge (Eric), Joseph McDougall (Amanda), Bradley Nassaur (Samantha), and C.J. Nassaur. He was a proud great-grandfather to Scarlett McDougall, Jackson McDougall, Knox Nassaur, and Briggs Nassaur.
Joseph is also survived by his siblings; Billy Jones (Luellen), Ronald Jones (Linda), Linda Fields, Lucille Fallone, and Doug Jones (Louisa). Brothers Kenneth R. Jones (Judy) and Charles Jones Sr. (Marion) predeceased him.
A personal, private, family Celebration of Life Service will be held to honor the incredible man that influenced our lives.
Lovingly remembered and forever missed by his family.
