Edwin S. Jones

 

Image of 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 ZooJet City Improv, and/or Davidson College.

14 Responses to “Edwin S. Jones”

  • Denny Cornett says:

    Well done . Great pictures/memories of Ted. Remember him with a smile.

  • Edith Reed says:

    Beautiful words. I had so much fun talking to him and Rob at Will‘s rehearsal dinner. What is sense of humor and what a beautiful smile. Gone too soon

  • Julie Curtis says:

    We’ll miss Ted bunches. His humor always made our day brighter. Beautiful description of his life. Nicely done.

  • Greg Nickels says:

    Ted was a wonderful guy, full of life and brimming with enthusiasm. I last saw Ted last year at a Boy Scout reunion in Louisville, and Ted travelled further than any other scout present to attend that wonderful event. Godspeed Ted.

  • Richard Eastman says:

    Thank you for this wonderful tribute to Ted. He will always be one of my favorite people and I will certainly miss him. Sending my love to his family and the extended family of friends who loved him too.

  • Sloane Graff says:

    There is no one word to capture the essence of Ted, but one word would be inimitable. I am sure the angels in heaven are now howling at his improv.

  • Janis Weltzin says:

    Ted was a past president of the Woodland Park Zoo Docents. His gentle humor and laugh will be missed.

  • Amalia Larson says:

    I knew Ted through Jet City Improv. He was, of course, a beloved volunteer and house manager for many years. When he finally decided to take an improv class of his own, he signed up for my 101 and I was so honored that he’d step out of his comfort zone in that way with me. To no one’s surprise, he was fantastic every time he took to the stage. He had a sharp sense of humor and incredibly big heart. I can’t believe he’s gone. Thank you Ted for so many years of service and laughs. Rest easy, friend. <3

  • George and Julie McKelvy says:

    We were dear friends to Ted when he taught at Woodward Academy in College Park, GA. We visited with him in England when he was an exchange teacher and drove from Atlanta to Kansas City for his wedding. He was a very special sole and will be missed. Peace, Tedwin.

  • Laura Schoelles says:

    I had the absolute pleasure and honor of becoming Ted’s friend in our high school years together in Louisville. His wit, his snark, his passion for words, his occasional irreverence, were so appreciated. We continued our friendship for decades and I continue to cherish his warmth, his spirit, and knowing that he was a trusted and highly valued friend. Fair thee well, Ted. You are truly missed.

  • Kim Haas says:

    I worked with Ted for over 20 years at the zoo as the manager of volunteer programs. Ted was a committed and passionate docent who gave thousands of hours to the zoo in educator and leadership positions. I’m fortunate to have known and worked with him. My best to Ted’s family.

  • Kristine Antonsen says:

    I met Ted as a volunteer for Jet City Improv around 2016 and was moved by his dedication at the theater. Ted’s friendly and welcoming presence made the theater feel like home to me. I fondly remember Ted for his generosity and love of theater. He is greatly missed.

  • Sara Jo Geiger says:

    I met Ted through Jet City Improv. He was so kind and funny, I really looked forward to seeing him behind the box office because he always remembered my name and that made me feel special. Much love Ted, thank you, and rest well.

  • Charlie Mumma says:

    Ted and i played soccer on the Tyros for many years. We shared a love of puns and proper grammar. My only use of facebook was to see his daily contributions. I will miss him greatly.

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