Holly MatkinTaylorville, IL – Taylorville Police Officer Gary Jones succumbed to cancer at his home on March 3, surrounded by his family.
“We all loved that man,” family friend Denise Fox wrote on Officer Jones’ memorial page. “He was a fighter. We can rest assured that he will be protecting Taylorville all the way from heaven.”
Officer Jones, 47, graduated from high school in the same community he would later serve, according to his obituary.
Prior to his career in law enforcement, Officer Jones served in the Army National Guard, and later worked for a paint and coating company in Mount Zion.
He was also a “firearms enthusiast,” who enjoyed teaching others, his obituary read.
“Gary was a gunsmith, member of the NRA, master firearms instructor, and a concealed-carry instructor,” the tribute continued.
The married father-of-four had a knack for working with children, family friend Tanya Jett recalled in a memorial post.
“I was with several preschool groups when Gary would show and tell them everything about the police station and being a police officer,” Jett said. “He was so patient and kind. He will be missed by many.”
Officer Jones was a “great man,” and his death was a loss felt by many, his friend, Pat Conrad, wrote on the memorial page.
“He will always be in our thoughts and will never be forgotten,” Conrad said. “God must have better plans for him, than to let him go on suffering here any longer.”
Officer Jones leaves behind his wife, Gina, as well as their children, Logan, Kaylee, Tanner, and Dylan, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and father-in-law.
He was laid to rest on Friday.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Taylorville Police Officer Gary Jones, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.