David Louis Jones passed away at his home in Jackson, Mississippi, on Jan. 6, 2021.

David was born on Oct. 25, 1939 to the late Rev. N.T. Jones and Carrie Reid Jones in Gloucester County. He graduated from Thomas C. Walker High School and Virginia State College (University).

He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1963 where he served on active duty in France for two years. While in service he worked as a structural engineer. David continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserve for 36 more years. He retired with the rank of Sergeant Major.

David and two of his classmates at Virginia State College were the first Black Soil Scientists in the history of the United States Department of Agriculture. He endured much harsh treatment in order to break that ceiling. At this time, he was living in Richmond, Virginia. In order to get a promotion, he moved to Jackson, Mississippi.

After retirement, he became a financial planner for H&R Block until his health failed him. He attended the New Hope Baptist Church every Sunday until his health failed him.

He was preceded in death by wife, Mattie.

He is survived by his son, David (Kathryn, a devoted daughter-in-law and caregiver); grandchildren, Maria, Dawud and Salahima; brother, John (Helen); sisters, Marian, Edith (Arthur), Erma and Theresa. He is survived by his stepmother, Geneva Jones.

Military rites were held at the Newton Military Cemetery in Newton, Mississippi.