Geneva N. Jones

A Time to Be Born

Geneva Nelson Jones, affectionately known as “Mudda” and “Mother Jones,” was born September 5, 1934, in Sumter, South Carolina, to the late Boston and Viccie Ludd Nelson.

A Time to Grow

Geneva was educated in the Sumter County Public School System. She later met and married the love of her life, Leroy “Nailer” Jones. Their loving union of forty-seven years was blessed with five children whom she loved dearly.

Geneva worked at Hopewell Nursing Home and Campbell Soup Company, always giving her best and caring deeply for those around her. However, her greatest calling and expressions of love came when her son, Jimmie, experienced a life-changing medical condition. Without hesitation, she devoted herself to his care, becoming his full-time caregiver. With unwavering love, she cared for him with remarkable patience, strength, and compassion until the Lord called him home.

A Time to Worship

Her spiritual journey began at an early age, and she became a faithful and active member of her church, dedicating her life to serving God and others.   In addition to serving God, she sang with the gospel group “The Singing Angels”.  She would also sing with her sisters throughout the community.  For nearly thirty years, Geneva was a faithful and devoted member of Victory Church, where she served alongside her beloved husband, Deacon Jones, until his passing. Her commitment to ministry was evident through her service as a youth leader, musician, and mentor to new believers, providing spiritual guidance and encouragement as they grew in their faith.

It was through her nurturing heart and unwavering faith that she became known as “Mother Jones”. To many, she was more than a church member—she was a source of comfort, wisdom, and encouragement. She loved sharing the Gospel and talking about the goodness of God. Whether with family, friends, or someone she had just met, she never missed an opportunity to speak about Jesus and His love. She found great joy in helping others grow in their faith and encouraging them along their spiritual journey. 

A Time to Love

Mother Jones found beauty and joy in life's simple blessings. She loved gardening and caring for her plants, filling her home with warmth and life. Her front porch became her special place – a welcoming space where family, friends, and neighbors were always welcomed to talk, laugh, and enjoy one another's company. Those moments of fellowship brought her great joy. Her kindness touched countless lives.  She offered encouragement when it was needed most, wisdom when guidance was sought, and prayers when burdens felt heavy. Her presence brought peace.

A Time to Cherish

While our hearts mourn her absence, we rejoice in the gift of her life and the legacy she leaves behind.

Geneva Jones leaves to cherish her memories; her son, Melvin (Lusann) Jones of Sumter, SC;  three daughters, Lori Robinson of Durham, NC, Teresa Wiley of Sumter, SC and Valerie (David) Hollis of Hopkins, SC; two sisters in law, Irene and Earline Jones both of Sumter, SC; six grandchildren, Marlon and Kristen Charles, Brian and Jessica Robinson, Amanda Ponce and Dr. Ariel Hollis; two great-grandchildren, Logan Ponce and Layla Robinson; special grandchildren, Valante “Ro” Holmes, and Bridgette Bell; four sisters, Gardenia Pinkney of NY, Lucille Lewis, Elizabeth Nelson, Gloria Greene all of Sumter; two brothers, Thomas (Geneva) Nelson of Ladson, SC and Leon (Francine) Nelson of Sumter; and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy; son, Jimmie; brothers, Herbert and Orria “Ray” Nelson; sisters, Mary Pinkney and Odell James; and a beloved son in law, Terence Robinson.