AB Jones

Arthur Boss "AB" Jones 85, a longtime Melrose resident, passed away on June 20, 2026 at PRMC in Clovis, following an illness. AB was born February 6, 1941 in Clovis, New Mexico to the home of Charlie Raymond Jones Sr and Lorice (Wade) Jones. AB was raised in Clovis as a young boy, and attended Clovis Schools until junior high. His family moved to Melrose, and AB graduated with the Melrose High School Class of 1959.

AB married the love of his life Glenda Draper on November 14, 1959 at the First Baptist Church in Melrose. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work.

In December of 1965, AB proudly entered the United States Army and served his country honorably for two years during the Vietnam War era.

AB worked as a switchman for the Santa Fe Railroad before pursuing training to become a journeyman electrician. His career took him to Albuquerque and Las Vegas, New Mexico. AB and Glenda made their home in Las Vegas for many years while raising their family before returning to Melrose in 1992.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Melrose. He was also a member of the VFW in Clovis, the ACRA search and rescue organization in both Albuquerque and Las Vegas. 

AB never met a hobby he didn't enjoy. He was a craftsman with a talent for woodworking and jewelry making. He enjoyed time spent outdoors while fishing, hunting, gardening, golfing, and pitching horseshoes. Yet some of his most cherished moments were spent closer to home in his "man cave," where family and friends gathered around a pool table, sharing stories, laughter, coffee, cigarettes and conversation. Whether at home or at Randa's Cafe as a regular member of the Coffee Drinkers Club, AB was known for his easygoing nature, sense of humor, and ability to make people feel welcome.

AB is preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Lorice Jones, one brother Denny Jones, and two brother-in-laws Jack Draper, and Orlando Romero, and one nephew Deon Romero. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Glenda Jones of the family home in Melrose, his children Nichole "Nikki" Jones (Jacob Romero) of Las Vegas, NM and Aaron Jones of Clovis, one granddaughter Shannen Jimenez (Philip) of Tucson, AZ. He is survived by three brothers Tommy Jones (Vilai Nararam) of Las Vegas, NV, Donnie Jones of Santa Fe, NM, and Charlie Jones (Anna) of Santa Fe, NM, one sister Myra Romero of Albuquerque, two sister-in-laws Norma Rogers (Jim) of Clovis, and Dallas Draper of Melrose. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 10 am on Friday, June 26, 2026 at the First Baptist Church in Melrose with Pastor Tyler Eanes officiating. Urn bearers will include Jacob Romero and Philip Jimenez.

Arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 830 N. Fifth Street, Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (575) 355-2311.