Dr. John Paul Jones, 82, of Newport News, VA passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
Dr. Jones was born in Greensboro, NC to Leona Rudd and Woodrow Jones. He attended Rankin High School in Greensboro, NC and went on to Elon University and the University of Virginia School of Medicine, graduating with honors in 1969.
He completed his medical residency training at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, GA, and his cardiology fellowship at Emory University in DeKalb County, GA where he was once part of the care team for former President Lyndon Johnson, before relocating to Newport News, VA in 1974. He became a pioneer in nuclear cardiology and a respected interventional cardiologist on the Peninsula where he made his home for 52 years.
He was an avid nature enthusiast and enjoyed hiking, camping, scuba diving, mountain climbing, skiing, cycling and a host of other outdoor activities. For decades he volunteered both his time and medical expertise acting as a chaperone for youth outdoor education programs long after his own children had outgrown them. Adventurous and generous, Dr. Jones was always planning thrilling expeditions and inviting whatever friends and family could come along.
He is survived by his wife, Dr. Harriett Jones; his sister, Betty Andrews; his children, Jeff A. R. Jones, Jennifer Smith, Lauren Fallon, Chris Jones, Steve McBride and Norman Krumenacker; his grandchildren, John Smith, Diana Jones, Jorja Smith, Ophelia Jones, Sidney Smith, Arianna McBride, and Gavin McBride as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Sierra Club, Doctors Without Borders, or a charity of your choice.
