Jeanette Hilbourn Ward Jones passed away on Friday, May 27, 2022, at her residence in Durham. Jeanette was born on November 25, 1941 in Chadbourn, NC to the late Elroy Hilbourn and Kathleen Nobles Hilbourn. In addition to her parents, Jeanette was preceded in death by her first husband, William Floyd Ward, and her son, William Craig Ward of Chapel Hill, NC. A widow for several years, her life was renewed in marriage to James F. Jones of Garner, NC in 1997.
She was a graduate of Chadbourn High School, class of 1961, and attended the Selina Business School in Lumberton, NC. Upon completion of her studies, she worked as a medical office administrator and later as a legal office administrator in the local area. After moving to Chapel Hill, she accepted a position with the University of North Carolina as a Statistical Assistant in the Area Health Education Center. During her outstanding service there she was recognized with several performance awards. She provided dedicated service to the University until her retirement in 2006.
During her life, Jeanette enjoyed working in her garden, and long walks with friends. Neighbors would often see her outdoors tending to her lawn and flowers. She delighted in spending time with her large and loving extended family and sharing the holidays with them. Jeanette had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel and experience new places. She enjoyed trips to the beach, theater shows, shopping trips, and cruses to anywhere. Jeanette left a loving impression on the hearts of those who knew her. With her departure, a light has gone out in this world.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 3, 2022 at Worthington Funeral Home in Chadbourn, with Rev. Olin Tatum and Rev. Zachary Barnes officiating. Interment will follow in the Ward Station Church of God Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 2:00-2:45, prior to the service on Friday.
She is survived by her husband, James F. Jones, two brothers, Kenneth Hilbourn and his wife, Martha, and Thomas Hilbourn and his wife, Frances; a sister, Annette Tatum and her husband, Olin; and several nieces and nephews as well as several great-nephews and great nieces.
(Flowers are acceptable)
“Thou hast created us for thyself, and our heart is not quiet until it rests in Thee”.
