JONES, DALLAS, 86, of

Clermont, Florida passed away peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 18, surrounded by friends and family gathered to honor his remarkable life as husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Dallas was born on November 23rd, 1924 in Washington, Indiana to parents

Otto and Janie Jones. Having spent his youth learning the intricacies of the agriculture business, in 1960 Dallas moved his family to Clermont, Florida and eventually launched DAL-DON Produce with long-time partner and friend Don Bloebaum. For more than 40 years, Dallas provided direction and leadership for the company which steadily grew from a fledgling organization into a substantial fruit-distribution venture servicing numerous clients across the United States. A pioneer in the produce industry and a man of unwavering character, Dallas embodied the most beautiful and enduring qualities of his generation; achievement through hard work, service to those in need, and a deep commitment to provide for, love, and cherish his family. In 2002, after a long and successful career, Dallas retired from DAL-DON to enjoy his remaining years with Jane Jones, his wife of 66 years, and their loving family. In addition to his wife Jane, Dallas is survived by five sons; Danny (Mary), Bobby (Tiffany), Billy

(Teresa), Mark (Lisa), and Todd (Joanna); one daughter, Shirley (Richard); 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a community of friends touched by his extraordinary contributions and lasting legacy. The enduring impact of Dallas' life was best characterized by his six-year-old great grandson, Colby Jones, who said, "God must have been low on angels today, so he had to take Grandpa Dallas home."