Corinne Amelia Davis Jones, affectionately known to many as “Mother Jones”, was born on July 27, 1926, to Bertie W. H. Davis and Corinne Wilson Davis in the Roxbury section of Boston, Massachusetts. She attended the Boston Public Schools, including the renowned Girls’ Latin School. Upon her graduation in 1942 at the tender age of fifteen, she came south to Virginia to matriculate at Virginia State College, her beloved alma mater, majoring in biology, where she met the love of her life, Hilary H. Jones, Jr. During her undergraduate years, she pledged membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Following her graduation, she returned to her native Boston and taught high school biology. Upon his return from World War II, Hilary followed her there and enrolled in Boston University Law School. They married in 1947. Upon his graduation, they moved to his hometown of Norfolk where he began the practice of law in January, 1950. Thereafter, she gave birth to three sons and by their mutual agreement, she became a “stay at home” mother to the very active Jones boys. During those years, she also became very active in the community, becoming a board member of many civic and charitable organizations at a time when the very presence of a Black woman was truly remarkable. Her community service included membership on the boards of the Chrysler Museum, League of Women Voters, the Urban Coalition, and the American Red Cross. She was presented the first Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Distinguished Service Award by the Tidewater Community College. In addition, the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities honored her with its Humanitarian Award for distinguished community service.
After her beloved husband Hilary’s untimely death in 1975, Corinne returned to full time teaching in 1976, becoming a member of the faculty at Norview Junior High School teaching science and mathematics. In addition, she headed the school’s “In-School Suspension Program” for misbehaving students in which she not only counseled them, but inspired them to better behavior and academic achievement, as countless former students have borne witness. She retired from Norfolk Public Schools in 1991, however, she continued to be a leader and active in the community with organizations including the Friends of the Norfolk Public Library, Norfolk Senior Center, and Old Dominion University’s Town ‘n’ Gown. In addition, she actively lobbied state and local legislators for fine arts organizations including the Virginia Arts Festival, and Young Audiences of Virginia. Along the way, she became a friend and informal advisor to Governors, Senators, Delegates, Mayors, and numerous others.
She was an avid member of social clubs including the Corianders and the Girl Friends, Inc.
She was a faithful and dedicated member of Grace Episcopal Church, which she and her husband joined together in 1949, attending regularly until declining health slowed her attendance.
Besides a host of friends and admirers across the community and the Commonwealth, those who are left to cherish her life and legacy include three sons, Hilary, III, Jerrauld, and Darryl; Daughters-in-law, Lyn and Renee; three grandchildren, Torri, Morgin, and Jerrauld (Jay); four great-grandchildren, Luke, Lauren, Jaiden, and Samantha Rose; nieces and nephews. She especially loved her Godchildren, Judy Mitchell Taylor, Patrice Caldwell Smith, Oswald Hoffler, Jr., and Jennifer Allen, whom she loved as much as her own.
Her family wishes to specially acknowledge and express our sincerest appreciation to her loving caregivers, Emoline Southall, Tonja Boyd, and Tara Davis Jones.
Indeed, “Mother Jones” will be missed!
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Shelly Gittens says
July 17, 2018 at 2:17 pmBuzzy,
I’m sorry for your loss. She lived a long life. I hope your memories are of good times.
Helen Ferguson says
July 17, 2018 at 3:16 pmOur thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, we will all ways remember that smile, l thank God for bring her in to my life.
From Bruce and Helen Williams
Much love always from Paula Paris says
July 17, 2018 at 9:37 pmDear Jerauld, Buzzy and Darryl, Thank you for sharing Auntie Corinne with me and Phil. I have so many wonderful memories from both Norfolk and Boston. She was such a treasure, and we were so blessed to have her in our lives. The passing of her dear friend Estelle last year interrupted their lifelong friendship only temporarily. They can now resume in eternal conversation. She lived a remarkable life, well beyond what her doctors had initially predicted — and was that any surprise? She has also left a continuing legacy to be honored by you and your families. May the circle be unbroken.
Miciah says
July 18, 2018 at 2:27 pmI’m sorry for your loss. Please take comfort in God’s promise of the resurrection, John 5:28,29
Virginia State University Alumni Assoc - Tidewater Chapter says
July 18, 2018 at 5:46 pmThe Tidewater Alumni Chapter of the Virginia State University Alumni Association extends its deepest condolences to the Jones family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Laurie M. Carpenter
President
Mr. & Mrs. JB Felton says
July 20, 2018 at 2:27 amDarryl we will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers.
Bishop &” Madam Educator”
ROBERT CREEKMUR JR says
July 19, 2018 at 4:01 amMay the peace of Christ be with you and family.
Creek
Sari Wise says
July 19, 2018 at 4:13 pmBuzz,
I am so sorry to hear about your Mothers. You and your family are in my prayers.
Sari Wise
Hon. Roxie O. Holder says
July 19, 2018 at 8:06 pmFriends, I am so sorry for your loss. Soror Jones was a remarkable woman. Her lifetime of dedicated service is amazing.
Dorinda Huggins says
July 20, 2018 at 1:14 amBuzzy, Jerauld and Darryl,
When our Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. I have a childhood full of your mother’s love and laughter. May your memories guide you during this time. I’m sure my parents met Mother Jones at the heavenly gate. Sharing in God’s love,
Dorinda Jordan Huggins and in memory for my parents Jerry and Mildred Jordan who loved your mother dearly.
China Burton says
July 20, 2018 at 2:57 pmMy prayers are with you and the family, as always.
DuBose family says
July 20, 2018 at 4:09 pmBuzzy, Jerauld,Darryl may God Bless you & your family in this time of sorrow.