Edwin S. Jones

Edwin S. Jones

Edwin “Ted” Sinclair Jones of Seattle, Washington, passed away in his home on January 22, 2025.  Ted was a beloved brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and dear friend to many across the country and the world.

Born in 1957, Ted was the first child of Robert S. Jones and Mary Fay (Newton) Jones.  He lived and grew up with his family in both Massachusetts and later in Kentucky, went to college at Davidson College in North Carolina, and lived his adult life in Seattle, Washington.

Ted was a proud member of Boy Scout Troop 385 in Louisville, Kentucky where he attained the status of Eagle Scout.  He attended and graduated from Ballard High School in Louisville, Kentucky where he played football, soccer and was a member of the track team.  He then attended Davidson College in North Carolina where he played soccer (goaltender), was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, and graduated with a degree in US and European History. He also received a Masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Washington.  Ted’s professional career was in education both as a high school history teacher and coach, and then as an online curriculum builder for various national and international corporations.

Prior to and throughout his retirement, Ted volunteered as a docent at the Woodland Park Zoo and as a House Manager at Jet City Improv in Seattle.  In both positions, Ted exercised his love for animals (especially the orangutans and other primates) and theater (especially comedy).

Beyond his big laugh, his smile, his love of puns and proper grammar, his bad jokes, his youthful demeanor, his appreciation for Shakespeare, his detailed memory, his positive spirit, and his big heart… Ted will best be remembered for the connections he maintained with family and friends.  He didn’t miss a wedding or funeral.  He traveled all corners of the country making visits with distant aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.  He was quick to attend high school and college reunions.  Holidays were always spent with family.  And he never missed a chat group conversation or monthly video conferences with multiple friend groups located around the world.  Ted was the rare person who made friends easily and never let them go.  In a time when friendships and bonds can slip and are only rekindled once a year with a holiday card, Ted’s connections to people were earnest, strong and everlasting.  Long distance travel was never easy for him, but he was quick to make a cross-country flight or drive far off the beaten path for face-to-face get togethers.  Ted was the glue that kept relationships together and not forgotten.

Ted is survived by his sister, Sarah Powell and her husband Murray, his brother, Rob Jones, his former wife, Cheri Jones, his nieces, Kate, Eleanor and Sinclair, his nephew, Will, his godchildren, Jenny and Sarah, and countless friends near and far.  Ted’s gentle soul will be missed by all.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  For those wanting to continue his legacy as a tireless volunteer, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the Woodland Park Zoo,  Jet City Improv, and/or Davidson College.