Beulah Mae Jones

Beulah Mae Jones was born in Mansfield, Ohio, on August 6, 1928, to George and Lucile (Burke) Middlebrook. She was an exceptional student in the Mansfield City School System and devoted her life to her family, faith, work, and community.

From her first marriage to Robert E. Walls, Beulah had two children. She later married Elroy H. Jones and from that union she had five children.

After the passing of Elroy in 1962, she courageously raised their family on her own.

A lifelong woman of faith, Beulah was baptized at Shiloh Baptist Church. After marrying she joined Mitchell Chapel A.M.E. Church and later became a faithful member of Providence Baptist Church. Throughout her life, she served in numerous church ministries, including the choir, Willing workers,Usher Board (Pres.),Missionary Society, Stewardess Board, Trustees, and Finance Committee.

Beulah’s commitment to her community was equally remarkable. She served in numerous civic and charitable organizations, including the NAACP ( life member) League of Women Voters, American Legion Auxiliary, Red Cross, RSVP, precinct Committeeman, various school and youth organizations. Her dedication earned her many honors, including the 2003 Richland County Democratic Party John J. Reinhardt Life Achievement Award and the NAACP Jack D. Middlebrook Community Service Award.

Beulah worked for the Shelby Air Force Depot, General Army Depot, Thermo-Disc, the United States Postal Service, and the Richland County Treasurer’s Office, where she retired in 1990.

Outside of her work and service, Beulah found joy in the simple blessings of life. She loved sewing, knitting, crocheting, gardening, baking her famous Christmas cookies, and bowling. Her remarkable 297 bowling score was a testament to her determination and competitive spirit.

Beulah was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers George, Jr. (who was fatally wounded in the

Korean War), James and Leon Middlebrook; her sisters Geraldine Nash and Loretta Gaskin; her daughter

Wanda Jo Woody; grandsons Lorenzia Woods and Brian Woods; great-granddaughter Terrone’ Woods;

great-grandson Brandon Woods; great-great-granddaughter Zuri Bass; great-great-grandsons Markarion

Woods, Jabari and Jelani.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Robert and Martin Jones; daughters, Beverly (Robert) Kimber, Gloria (George) Miller, Marsha Beard, and Karmene Reed; grandchildren Terone Woods,

Rhonda Bass, Jamar Jones, Tasha Jones, Kenyett Jones; Autumn Woody, Maisha Jones, Jamila Beard,

Tenelle Jones, Adam Woody, Chris Kimber, Kali Beard, Steven Miller, Geanna Miller, and Dallas Jones; 35 great-grandchildren; 41 great-great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves her Godson Herbert “Jamie” Hilliard and bonus daughter Carolyn “Sis” Reynolds; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Beulah Mae Jones lived a life marked by faith, resilience, service, and love. She planted seeds of faith, wisdom, kindness, and perseverance that will continue to grow through the generations.