Deana Lynn (Earhart) Jones
May 13, 1963-January 31, 2026
Deana Lynn Jones (Earhart) born May,13th 1963 in Anderson, IN lost her battle with cancer on January 31, 2026—on her eldest son’s birthday—while surrounded by the family who deeply loved her. She was a woman of fierce strength, deep kindness, and unwavering love. She battled with everything she had, and while sometimes cancer wins, Deana put up one hell of a fight.
She was strong and determined, yet gentle and fun. Even after receiving a terminal diagnosis—even when her oxygen levels dropped from simply walking—her concern was never for herself. Instead, she worried about going shopping to buy Christmas gifts, making sure the people she loved felt cared for. That was who Deana was: always thinking of others first.
She loved her grandchildren beyond measure and found great joy in her precious animals—her four cats and her beloved dog, Ashous, who held a very special place in her heart.
Deana was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She leaves behind her three children: Seth Jones (Natasha), Autumn Knott (Michael), and Merle Jones III (Josie), along with her stepson, Matthew Jones. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Kalaya Carpenter, Ayreanna Pruett, Brayven Jones, Alexus Smith, Braylee Knott, and Brentley Knott, as well as a great-grandbaby on the way who will forever be connected to her love.
She leaves behind her precious parents, Charles and Evaline Earhart; her father-in-law, Merle Jones, I; her little brother and “twin at heart,” Don Earhart; and her sister, Misty Wolfgang (Scott), who was by her side until the very end and truly her sister’s keeper. She is also survived by her special niece and nephew, Taylor and Tyler Wolfgang; Mia, Owen, and Mara; with another niece on the way; and her dear friend, Melissa Arnold, who has truly been a blessing in her life.
Deana possessed unconditional kindness. She was always concerned about the welfare of others—even when some were not worthy of the depth of her love. Through it all, her heart remained open, compassionate, and generous.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Merle Jones; her best friends, Andrea Humes, Leslie Winkler, and Paula Keaton; and her very own angel, Mamaw (Gladys Lawson). There is no doubt that Merle was there to greet her, and together they ran off into paradise—reunited at last on their son Seth’s birthday.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the ICU staff at St. Vincent for their incredible care, and to Dr. Molina, Dr. Mares, and Dr. Aiman for their compassion. A special thank you to Koria from registration for putting a smile on Deana’s face, even on the hardest days.
You’re as free as a bird now, Mom—and this bird, they cannot change.
Memorial services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026 at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service with Rev. Hervey Lawrence officiating.
Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Animal Protection League.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com