Paul K. Jones

Paul K. Jones, born July 6, 1932, lived a long and meaningful life devoted to his family, his country, and educating others about the value of learning. He passed away on September 8, 2026, at the age of 94.

Paul was the son of Crecy Jane and Dewey Jones and grew up in a large family. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, and three sisters.

A graduate of McCreary County High School who later earned teaching credentials from both Cumberland College and Western Kentucky University, Paul dedicated his career to education. He cared deeply about his students and went beyond the classroom to help them learn, grow, and succeed. His influence touched countless students and families throughout the years.

Paul proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War, a service he held with great pride throughout his life.

Family was the most important part of Paul's life. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Anita Jones, and his great-grandson, Eli Sloan.

Paul is survived by his daughter, Paula Mann and her husband, Terry Mann, of Monticello, Kentucky; his grandsons, Ryan Marcum (Sean Gierich) and Chris Sloan and his wife, Melissa Sloan; and his great-granddaughter, Hadley Sloan. He is also survived by his step-grandson, Dustin Mann and his wife, Amanda, and their children, Graclee, Aaron, and Aubree.

Paul enjoyed fishing on Lake Cumberland, cheering on the University of Kentucky Wildcats, and following the Cincinnati Reds. He treasured the time spent sharing stories and conversations with family and friends.

Paul will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, educator, and friend. His kindness, dedication, and love for others will live on through the many lives he touched.

Paul was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Monticello, KY.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in honor of his late great-grandson, Eli Sloan.

The Live Like Eli Foundation was established by Eli's parents following his passing in March 2026. The foundation supports educational scholarships for students and organizations that were meaningful to Eli, including Special Olympics, Miracle League, and Make-A-Wish.

Great-Pappaw Paul deeply valued education and believed everyone deserved an opportunity to succeed. Through their shared legacies, the Live Like Eli Foundation seeks to continue those values by creating opportunities for others.

Checks may be made payable to the Pearse Lyons ACE Foundation with "Live Like Eli" in the memo line and mailed to:

The Pearse Lyons ACE Foundation – Live Like Eli c/o Heather Brockman 3031 Catnip Hill Road Nicholasville, KY 40356

Donations may also be made online at https://pearselyonsace.org by selecting the donation option and designating your gift to support "Live Like Eli."

The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 10, 2026, between 5 pm – 8 pm in the chapel of the funeral home. Funeral services will be held Friday, September 11, 2026, at 11 am at the Hicks-Vaughn Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in the Elk Spring Cemetery.

Hicks-Vaughn Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.