Rufford Lee Jones

Rufford Lee Jones, also known as “Rufus”, was born to the late George Turner Sr. and Mary Lizzie Rice Barksdale on July 29, 1955. He was born and raised in Clinton, South Carolina, by his grandparents: Lester & Lula Rice, and Uncle Jimmy “Bubba” Rice. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1975, and following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, and later the Army National Guard. He retired as a Staff Sergeant (SSG), with an honorable discharge after a combined 31 years and 3 tours in Kuwait.
Rufus was a “jack of all trades”; a handyman enthusiast. Beyond his military career, he obtained a certificate in automotive mechanics and was a retiree of the Walmart Distribution Center. He also had a long-time hobby of collecting Lionel train models.
In addition to his love for tinkering with things, he had a huge heart for people; always caring about others, like caring for his maternal aunts as they aged. He also loved his dogs, Suzie and Bingo – “his babies” is what he called them.
His love extended to so many in his community. He was always “good company”; often described as nice, friendly, and kind. He was an active Deacon at the Zion Hill Pentecostal Church of Clinton, SC, under the leadership of Pastor Pyles. In previous ministries, he served in other capacities as well, including a superintendent and Sunday School teacher.
Rufus will truly be missed. He is survived by his maternal aunt Viola Chambers; siblings: Hannah Lee Hill (SC), Levester (Benita) Jones Sr. (CT), Angelo (Sharon) Barksdale (NC), Ollie (Priscilla) Barksdale (NC); step brother: Elvis Jackson; cousins (who were like siblings to him): LeRoy Rice, and Jesse Ruth; long-time friend: Charlie M. Davis; sisterly-figure: Pastor Pyles; a host of nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents: George Turner Sr. and Mary Lizzie Rice Barksdale; brother Otha Barksdale; and step-brothers: Belman Jackson Sr. and Marion Jackson, Sr. 

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