Dear Family & Friends,

It is with profound sorrow that we inform you that our beloved Kevin Richard Jones, 47, passed away at home on Saturday, August 15th, after a challenging, two-year struggle with undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. Kevin is survived by his parents, Richard and Mary (“Flo”), brother, Christopher, sisters, LaKeisha and Danielle, brother-in-law, Erik, several nieces and nephews, and a vast community of family and friends around the world who continue to grieve and hold his memory close.

Many of you will remember Kevin's warmth, pragmatism, quick wit, and his ability to make anyone and everyone feel welcome. His kind smile that could light up any room and his beautiful eyes that could lift your spirit in seconds will be missed by all who were blessed to be a part of Kevin’s life.  Kevin’s natural generosity of spirit and willingness to accept anyone with no judgment - quirks, flaws, and all - made us all feel at ease.

Kevin was born in New York, NY on September 1, 1972, grew up in Yorktown Heights, NY, was an A Better Chance, Inc. alumnus, graduated from The Asheville School (‘90) in NC, Haverford College (‘94) in PA, and Duke University School of Law (‘01) in NC, and worked at Lockheed Martin as a Senior Contract Negotiator in King of Prussia, PA, and Sunnyvale, CA. Wherever Kevin lived, he succeeded in forming lasting friendships.

Kevin eventually settled in San Jose, California. Kevin loved California for all that it had to offer. He loved its weather and his ability to spend time outdoors all year long. As many of you know or were able to share with him, Kevin spent his time biking, hiking, riding his motorcycle, snowboarding, attending concerts, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends. Kevin also loved bringing people together. He brought people of all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, and interests together. He brought us together and encouraged a community of acceptance. This valuable lesson will make us better humans and keep Kevin’s spirit alive.

Kevin was also a champion of the underdog and was passionate about social justice and seeing African-American, underrepresented, and economically disadvantaged students have a fair chance at success. Haverford College held a very special place in Kevin's life and heart. His commitment to maintaining a strong connection to the Haverford community is something he lived until the very end.

To honor Kevin's legacy, in lieu of flowers or other gifts, we hope that you will support both or either of the following causes:

• The Kevin R. Jones Fund for the Center for Career and Professional Advising (CCPA) at Haverford College.

This Fund will provide direct financial awards to support underrepresented students with demonstrated financial need to pursue internships and externships, and obtain other career support that they could not otherwise access.

To make tax-deductible donations, please click the following link. Under Designation, select "Other,” and please type in "IHO Kevin R. Jones, CCPA Student Development Fund." No matter how small or large, we hope you can support this initiative and help it grow into a permanent, endowed fund, keeping Kevin's commitment and caring spirit alive.

• The Sarcoma Foundation of America

This rare and aggressive cancer needs more research to find effective treatments. Those who are affected by it are disproportionately young, and they and their families endure so much in the process of treatment and trials that are often best guesses and experimental. You can help assist in medical research efforts toward finding a cure by donating via this link. You can also help raise awareness by posting this site, Sarcoma Foundation of America, to your social media.

Throughout his battle with sarcoma, Kevin valued all of the ongoing support his family and friends gave him. He read every message, saw every picture and video, and held dear the love, support, and presence all of you provided.

In light of COVID, we are unable to host an in-person memorial service for Kevin. We would, however, like family and friends to join us on Kevin’s birthday, September 1st, to celebrate his life.

Even in his final months, Kevin was always concerned about his family and friends. He wanted everyone to spend less time worrying about him and more time enjoying themselves. So we invite you to take his parting words to heart: Don’t wait to do the things you want to do. Life is shorter than you think. Just go and do it.

On September 1st, in the spirit of Kevin, we welcome you to: light a candle; post a thought or memory of Kevin on CaringBridge; share one thing you have always wanted to do and that you are committing yourself to do, and/or contribute to the Sarcoma Foundation fundraiser that has been set up on Kevin’s Facebook page.

We hope to find more ways to celebrate Kevin’s life and legacy with everyone in the future and very much appreciate the support you’ve shown Kevin and us during this difficult time. 

With hearts filled with gratitude and love,

The Jones Family