Leota Jones

Leota Virginia Jones, age 92 years of Niles, Michigan; mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister died peacefully at 10:10 p.m. on Friday, December 15, 2023 with her family gathered around at her home following an extended illness.

She was born on April 24, 1931 in Turman, Arkansas to Vince and Ophelia (Barnes) Prince, and attended school in Truman.  She came with her family to Niles in 1947, and was first employed at the former Niles plant of Simplicity Pattern Company.  Later, she began a career in food service at several area restaurants including the former Thomas Drive-In, Willie’s Restaurant, Mister J’s Pancake and Steak House (now the Prime Table), and finally in the Deli at Meijer’s.

Leota was “the glue that held the family together”, served anyone and everyone who came to her breakfast table, and hosted holiday gatherings and celebrations.  She was well-know for her preparation of the southern cooking classic: Chocolate gravy over homemade biscuits, which is often compared – sometimes rather graphically – to come of the best experiences in life.

She was first married to Johnnie Carter, and later to R. C. Whittaker, and Lynn White, and then to Harvey Jones who preceded her in death in 2005.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, and by twelve siblings.

Surviving family includes her children, William Carter of Niles, Johnnie Carter of Tennessee, Wilma Kathlene Carter Grice of Cassopolis, Michigan, and Dewayne Whittaker of South Bend, Indiana; grandchildren Tonia (& Matt) Pertuska, James Carter, Dennis Grice, and Carrie (& Mano) Salinas; great-grandchildren Logan, Tyler, and Riley; and Leota’s sisters, Phyllis (& Pinky) Welsh of Detroit, Michigan and Cleta Caldwell of Niles; and many nieces and nephews.

The family and friends of Leota Jones will gather privately to honor her life and share memories.  Burial will be in the Union Cemetery near Berrien Center, Michigan.  Arrangements were completed at the Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home, 615 East Main Street in Niles.  Online condolences may be left at:

www.halbritterwickens.com

Leota’s 92 years were used well, as a productive member of her community and personally serving folks at the restaurants; and more importantly providing a wonderful home where her family felt welcome – and well fed.