On July 30, 2024, at 6:30 p.m., God called our mother, mother-in-law, nana, sister, aunt, and friend, Mrs. Loretta Jones-Murray to eternal rest. She was born Loretta Shaw Johnson to the late James Johnson and Virginia Shaw in Columbia, SC on July 29, 1942.
At an early age, Loretta joined Happy Home Baptist Church, where she was baptized by the Reverend Rufus Scott, following in the footsteps of her grandmother, mother, and other family members. She began her education attending Waverly Elementary School and on May 30, 1960, she graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, where she was known for her impeccable style, grace, and kindness.
Loretta married her high school sweetheart, Afred C. Jones, on November 14, 1963. God blessed this union with two children, Deborah and Kenneth “Kenny”. As a military family (Army), they experienced years of world travel which took them to Germany for several years before relocating to Ft. Eustis, Virginia. In 1977, Loretta and Afred’s union ended.
Despite this life’s storm, Loretta’s indomitable spirit and zest for life propelled her forward. It ignited a fierce determination in her to continue to support and love her children in her new role as a single parent. This led her to expand her knowledge in the administration field while working for AAFES. During her career, she was honored for her “Outstanding contributions during Operation Desert Shield* Desert Storm 1990-1991”. Additionally, after thirty years of devoted and faithful service, AAFES recognized Loretta for her stellar career performance and presented her with an award that states “Mrs. Jones always demonstrates the qualities of leadership and initiative that have done much to enhance and fulfill the mission of the Fort Eustis Exchange. Mrs. Jones greets each day with enthusiasm and a smile for everyone.”
In 1983, Loretta met Retired 1st Sgt. Weston “Wes” Murray from Trenton, New Jersey. The two bonded, fell in love and were married on May 8, 1989. The besties shared love, travel, and laughter. On November 26, 1996, Loretta felt great sadness at the sudden death of Wes. They were a wonderful couple whose love for one another was so refreshing and encouraging.
Loretta joined New Beech Grove Baptist Church, in the late ’90s, where she served in several ministries, including the Missionary and Bread Ministries. She sincerely enjoyed serving and interacting with individuals in the community who were experiencing food insecurities. Later, Loretta was appointed the Bread Ministry Coordinator and did an amazing job due to her dedication and attention to detail. She also served with the Mature Adults where she enjoyed the fellowship and trips. She was recognized for “her dedication and commitment working in God’s Vineyard Servicing Others by Tidewater-Peninsula Baptist Association, Women’s Ministry, October 28, 2017, and generous donations by Paralyzed Veterans of America, on October 31, 2017.
Loretta is also preceded in death by her father, James Johnson; mother, Virginia Shaw Jackson; stepfather, William H. Jackson; brother, Herman L. Lee; and son, Kenneth Cornelius Jones.
Loretta legacy and precious memories will forever be cherished by her daughter Deborah J. Jordan (Ronald) of Upper Marlboro, MD; grandsons, Ellison Omari Jordan and Terrence Avery Jordan, both of Upper Marlboro, MD; daughter-in-law Sandra Jones (Kenny) of Williamsburg, VA; siblings, Regina Lee, Alethia L. Smith (Benjamin), Raleigh Lee (Carrie), Cynthia Marks, Willliam H. Jackson Jr. (Peggy), Herbert P. Jackson, and Rosemary Watts; niece/daughter Tracy R. Porterfield; sister-friends, Mary Self, Delores Wallace, and Linda Mack; son-friend Mack Nash; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, friends, church members, and neighbors who all loved her.
A funeral service to celebrate Loretta’s life will be held at Noon on Saturday, August 31, 2024, in New Beech Grove Baptist Church. Interment will take place at a later date in Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery.
