Robert "Cookie" Jones, age 75, of Toledo, passed away February 24, 2024, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio Toledo. Cookie was born June 6, 1948 in Toledo to Norman and Louise (Saxton) Jones. He was the beloved firstborn and leader of the Jones brothers and sisters, a family of nine children. Growing up (in Dorr-Secor area), he attended Mt Vernon and Ryder Elementary, McTigue Junior High and graduated from Rogers High School where he met his life partner and wife, Karen. While attending Rogers, he played the trumpet in the Marching Band and became Rogers "1966" Drum Major. His first job while in high school was with Smith's Cafeteria, working very hard on the weekends. He attended University of Toledo and was a veteran in the United States Army serving his country honorably during the Vietnam Era. While growing up on Mackow Drive, Cookie spent time swimming at Scott Park with his siblings and friends; he loved to roller skate at the Rollercade rink; he frequently enjoyed lake and deep sea-fishing; he also enjoyed traveling while creating lasting memories with his family and friends.
Cookie was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, trusted colleague, and friend. He touched the lives of all who knew him with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. His presence brought joy and laughter to every gathering, and his leadership inspired his siblings and extended family. In his professional life, Cookie was a dedicated employee for Wonder Bread for 30 years with a perfect attendance record. As a result of this amazing accomplishment, he was celebrated on Local TV, in a feature story titled "Cookie the Bread Man." After his retirement from Wonder Bread, he worked diligently for his sister Sarah, as Manager of the American Lawn Service until 2021, with his grandson Sean at his side as his trusted sidekick. Sarah inspired him to own and operate his own lawn service as he thoroughly enjoyed landscaping, gardening, and the great outdoors. Cookie was known for his dedication, hard work, integrity, and commitment to excellence throughout his illustrious work history. In addition to his role at Wonder Bread and American Lawn Service, Cookie worked many years at the Stranahan Theater as a bartender. He loved musical concerts, live theater and enjoyed his long-term friendships with his co-workers. He loved to play Keno and enjoyed his occasional glass of Pinot Noir. He was an avid movie goer and enjoyed sharing the details of the entire movie to anyone who would listen. Cookie was highly respected by all his colleagues and admired for his ability to bring out the best in others.
Outside of work, Cookie has a passion for attending and supporting his church home, Indiana Avenue Missionary Baptist Church. He served on the Usher Board, attended Sunday School and Wednesday Night Bible Study; occasionally would attend Bible Study at the First Church of God with Karen; and was a member of the Men's Corner monthly meeting.
In addition to his parents, Cookie was also preceded in death by his brothers, Conrad and Anthony "Todd" Jones. He is survived by his wife, Karen Jones; daughter, Cheryl (Herbert) Higgins; grandsons, William (fiance', Jane') Higgins, Sean (fiance', Caitlyn) Higgins; great-grandson, Dax Higgins "his buddy"; siblings, Iris (Joe) Jones, Juan (Elaine) Jones, Sarah (John) Bates, Flora Jones, Norman (Theresa) Jones and Kimberly (Eric) Sutton and many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive guests Saturday, March 23, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Indiana Ave Baptist Church, 640 Indiana Ave., Toledo, OH 43604. Memorial Services will begin Saturday at 12:00 p.m. at the Indiana Ave Baptist Church with Pastor William C. Foster, Sr. officiating.
To share a memory of Cookie or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.