Richard Jones

Richard “Rich” Neal Jones, 57, of Wall, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025, at his home in Lafayette following his 37-year battle with muscular dystrophy. 

We will remember Rich for his tenacious attitude and unbridled sense of humor, even in his final days. Rich considered his family to be his greatest accomplishment. He loved oldies music on the radio, 80s comedies, and a hot cup of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee. 

Rich was born on March 31, 1968, to father Robert Jones in Monmouth County, New Jersey. He was raised in New Jersey and later lived in West Virginia, Danville, Illinois, Attica, and Lafayette, Indiana. He married Stephanie Jones on June 22, 1996, in Ambia, Indiana. Stephanie and Rich had seven children together, were married for 24 years, and later divorced. 

Rich was best known for his strong work ethic and dedication to serving others throughout his medical career, which began at the age of 16. Rich worked as an Emergency Medical Technician in New Jersey from 1984 to 1993 and received a Master of Science at Alderson Broaddus University in West Virginia. He worked for 29 years as a Physician's Assistant in the field of Endocrinology. Rich served as Chief Physician's Assistant at Danville Illiana VA Medical Center and later retired from IU Health in Lafayette, Indiana, in 2023. He published several scholarly articles in various medical journals relating to his field of work in diabetes. 

Rich is survived by the mother of his children, Stephanie Jones, and his seven children: Blake, Beverly (Austin) Ross, Brooke, Bryan, Belicia, Brielle, and Bethany Jones. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Jones. 

Rich’s visitation will be Saturday, September 13, at 10:00 am at Grady Funeral Home in Williamsport, Indiana. The funeral services will follow at 12:00 pm. In accordance with his wishes, cremation will take place after the funeral services.