"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."
2 Timothy 4:7
US Army Veteran Bernard LaRue Jones 79, of 113 Don Street passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Friday February 20, 2026 at Valley Hospice House in Fayetteville, NC. He was born on September 12, 1946, in Sampson County, North Carolina, to the late Margaret Jones. He was a proud graduate of Sampson High School, Class of 1963.
Funeral Service to be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Hope Valley Hawkins Funeral Chapel, 1246 Hobbton Hwy., Clinton, NC. Burial will take place on March 12, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Bragg, 8220 Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake, NC 28390.
Visitation will be 2:00-6:00 pm, with family present 5:00-6:00 pm, on Thursday, February 26, 2026 in the Hope Valley Hawkins Funeral Chapel, 1246 Hobbton Hwy., Clinton, NC.
He was preceded in death by his Mother, Margaret Jones; his beloved Aunt Mamie and Uncle George Faison, who helped raise him; his Brother, Joseph Jones; and his wife, Brenda Jones, who passed on November 2, 2013.
Bernard was a man known for his kindness, his sweetness, and his honesty. He never hesitated to speak his mind, but he did so with a heart full of love. He was well known in his community, enjoyed talking about farming, loved music, and could truly dance like nobody else in the room. More than anything, he loved to make people laugh.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1965 to 1968, during the Vietnam War. During his service, he received numerous honors and commendations, including the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service stars, Sharpshooter Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Pistol Bar, Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Pistol Bar, and many additional recognitions for his courage and dedication.
Above all else, Bernard's greatest joy in life was his family. As the Father of his only child, Crystal, he made sure she always knew she was the apple of his eye. His love only grew when he became "Papa Nard" to his granddaughter, Samani, who brought him immense pride and happiness. The same deep love, protection, and warmth he gave his daughter was poured right into his granddaughter.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted daughter, Crystal Jones, and his beloved granddaughter, Samani, along with all who were blessed to know his laughter, strength, and love.
Bernard's legacy lives on in the stories he told, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Hope Valley Hawkins Funeral Service & Cremation is honored to serve the families of Bernard LaRue Jones.
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