Cecil E. Jones, age 93, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026. He was born on August 20, 1932, in Sperry, where he grew up and graduated from high school.

Following graduation, Cecil answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. He proudly served during the Korean War, demonstrating the same dedication and strength that would define the rest of his life.

After completing his military service, Cecil pursued his passion for engineering. He attended the longstanding school now known as Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, where he earned a degree in engineering. He later went on to obtain his Doctorate in Electronic Engineering, a testament to his commitment to education and lifelong learning.

Cecil devoted the majority of his professional career to teaching as a Professor of Electrical Engineering at Amarillo College, where he remained until his retirement. His dedication to his students and to the institution was unwavering. Even while primarily serving Amarillo College, he would occasionally adjunct and teach classes for other colleges in need, always returning to the place he faithfully called home throughout his career.

In 1967, Cecil became a proud member of the Freemasonry, having been introduced to the Masons by his dear friend, Glen Gearheart. His membership reflected his deep commitment to brotherhood, integrity and service.

An engineer at heart, Cecil’s talents extended far beyond the classroom. He had a deep love for building his own archery equipment, a sport in which he proudly claimed awards. The precision and intricacy of watch repair fascinated him, and he spent many hours restoring timepieces with steady hands and keen attention to detail. For a time, he owned and operated his own appliance repair shop, where he repaired microwaves, televisions and many other appliances. During those busy years, he taught during the day and worked at his business at night, embodying a remarkable work ethic.

Cecil also loved raising English Bulldog puppies and had a passion for classic cars and the art of restoring them. His mechanical skill and patience were evident in every project he undertook. he also loved to play the guitar each evening for his family.

Above all, Cecil was a devoted family man. His children remember a loving father August 20, 1932 – February 14, 2026

who would take them to the college park – a special treat that felt like a grand adventure. He often brought them into his classroom and let them write on his blackboard between lectures, moments that became cherished memories. He loved gathering with family during the holidays and always looked forward to celebrating his birthday surrounded by those he loved.

Cecil is survived by Bobbie Thames; his daughter Janet Jones; his son Cecil E. Jones Jr. and wife Joanna; and his daughter Glenda Jones Rose. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jenny Brand, Shelby Harrison, Jake Holmes and Jamie Presley; great-grandchildren Nikeah Brown and Isaac Brand; great-great-grandchildren Elliot and Emily Presley and Josiah and Kyrin Lamberson. He is also survived by loved bonus children Bert Thames, Beverly and Robert Letz, a bonus grandchild Dora Thames as well as a bonus great grandchild Zilla Thames.

He was preceded in death by his Mother Mildred Jones and Father Clyde Jones, four Sisters Mary Ellen Hudson, Marie Whitten, Kathleen Hudson and Brother Paul Jones, Beul Jones and Ireatha Cowan.

Cecil E. Jones will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his profession, his craft and most importantly, his family. His legacy of service, knowledge, craftsmanship and love will live on in all who knew him.

The family is asking for plants in lieu of cut flowers as they are able to brighten the lives of nursing home residents with them. They make great lasting memory pieces as well.

Public visitation services are scheduled from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service Chapel, located at 220 S. Alabama Avenue. Funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, February 20, 2026, at Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service Chapel. Burial services will follow the funeral at Okmulgee Cemetery.

Funeral services have been entrusted to Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service. Friends and family may leave condolences and kind words of comfort at www. schaudtfuneralservice. com.