James A. Jones

James A. Jones, 84, of Yulee, Florida, passed peacefully from this life on March 2, 2024, with his family by his side. James was born in Harlem, Georgia, to Arthur Levi and Beatrice Grant Jones. He moved to Fernandina Beach with his bride, Sandra Lucy McGovern Jones, in 1960, and has been a resident of Fernandina Beach and Yulee ever since.

James enjoyed working at Container Corporation of America, now West Rock, for 42 years as a millwright and machinist. Affectionately known as “Rattlesnake” to his friends and coworkers there, James left a legacy behind when he retired in 2002. His snakeskin boots, tough-as-nails reputation, and commitment to his craft are still widely remembered by the old timers who had the opportunity to work with him. After retiring, James spent much of his time indulging in his real passions, gardening and fishing.

James leaves behind his three daughters, Terri D. Gilmore (Richard Gilmore, deceased), Sherri D. Gilder (Jerry Gilder), and Erin N. Companion (Robert T. Companion), his five grandchildren, Richard (“Ricky”) Gilmore, Jr., Ashlyn Gilmore, Noah Gilder, Kayla Companion, and Caden Companion, his sister, Geraldine Nau (Robert Nau), his brother Barry Wayne Jones, and numerous nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren. James is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Sandra Lucy McGovern Jones, his parents, Arthur Levi and Beatrice Grant Jones, his sister, Betty Staples (Samuel Staples).

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, at Green Pine Funeral Home.  Graveside funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at Green Pine Cemetery.