John R. "Jack" Jones (AKA Darby Glande) passed away early Sunday morning June 29, 2025. He was given love, hugs and spiritual blessings on Saturday evening with his wife Patty, daughter Renee, and 2 of his grandsons who live locally in Richmond Hill, GA.

Jack is survived by his spouse Patricia Jones, his daughter Renee Diggs, with grandsons Landon Diggs, Cameron Diggs; and Brenden Diggs and wife Haley who are expecting the first great grandson. He is also survived by Ed Randall and grandsons Chance Randall, Cole Randall and AJ Randall. Jack was born as Anthony Murray in Philadelphia, PA and was adopted by John A. Jones and Agnes M. Jones. Later in life he was reunited with siblings he never knew about. He is survived by sister Ronnie Rocco, brother Marty Frumpkin and wife Sofia.

Jack had a passion for the diverse opportunities in life and spirituality. After the Navy, college and teaching high school, he became a Fransican Friar in the west. He returned to teaching in Arizona where he and Patty met and created family. He became a well respected therapist in the fields of alcoholism, addictions and family dynamics in treatment centers which moved the family to Virginia. Jack ultimately returned to his love of teaching middle school students in Fauquier County, VA. Upon retirement, he and Patty moved to the beaches on the Outer Banks of North
Carolina. Here Jack enjoyed his favorite career as he merged into the living history character of the Irishman Darby Glande, "Aaaaarrrgh". He continually played and entertained himself, tourists, locals, friends and family. He was in various venues throughout Manteo and the Roanoke Island Festival Park, Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills.

His recovery in Alcoholics was an important aspect of his life. Maintaining his sobriety and emotional serenity comes from connection with other members as well as the practices embedded in the spiritual program. In the days before his passing, his local people gathered and presented him his 41 year medallion. He said that it was the most honoring medallion he had ever received. Jack was a man who learned his faults, but who tried to be kind and personal with everyone he came in contact with. He was a spiritual seeker and considered all of life a Sacred Gift. As a boy he was able to unravel some ritual and mystery from the Catholic Church. This wisdom he brought into his spirituality with Jesus and his walk with the Holy Spirit. He fully believed that we are spiritual beings having a human existence, and he wanted to experience 'everything he was entitled to!

Most important in his life has been his closest relationships with family and a few long time friends.

He will be missed for his intensity with life and the profoundly deep love and appreciation he shared.

Visitation will be held Saturday July 5, 2025 at 4:00 P.M. with services to start at 5:00 P.M.