Col Dearl F. Jones passed away on December 11, 2020, and Virginia Lorraine Costello Jones passed away on June 21, 2015.
Col Dearl F. Jones, was born near Dodson, Texas in 1919. Virginia Lorraine Costello Jones was born near Binger, Okla. in 1919. They both graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1941. They were married for 74 years. They were preceded in death by a son and are survived by three daughters, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Dearl was drafted into the US Army during WWII. He received a commission during the war and a RA commission after the war. He was known for his mathematical intelligence and leadership ability. Highlights of his career include service in Italy during WWII, service in Korea, service in Vietnam, command of three Artillery Batteries, two Artillery Battalions, first US Army Missile Command, staff jobs at various level, served four years in the Pentagon, attend the US Army College, and he retired from White Sands Missile Range where he served as Deputy for Range Operations and Chief of Staff.
According to Dearl “Virginia was the most beautiful girl in her graduating class at Binger High School.” According to her children she was the “most beautiful woman to ever walk the earth.” But, in addition she also was a pilot, a school teacher, a volunteer for numerous charities, a mother of four, an ideal military wife, a tireless worker, and the family’s rock-solid foundation.
She moved the family 23 times with little or no assistance. She accomplished many things in her life, but she always said she was most proud of “raising a family that loves their parents and loves each other unconditionally.”
Dearl and Virginia were married in January 1942. Their love for each other was tested many times, but never wavered. They loved each other so much that they insisted they be buried and walk into heaven, holding hands, together.
Their legacy is one of loyalty, hard work, fair play, non-partisanship, loyalty and devotion. They passed these lessons on to their children who will pass it on to their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their wisdom, guidance, and loving embraces will be greatly missed.
