Rodney Thornberg Jones
August 21, 1947-July 1, 2026
Rodney “Poppy” Thornberg Jones, 78, lifelong resident of Anderson passed away surrounded by his family on July 1, 2026 at Community Hospital Anderson following an extended illness with Parkinson’s and cancer.
He was born on August 21, 1947 in Anderson to the late Ralph and Sarotta “Sally” (Kellum) Jones. He graduated in 1965 from Anderson High School. He attended Ball State University until he was drafted into the US Army during the Vietnam War.
When he returned back to Anderson, IN following the war he attended the apprenticeship program through General Motors to become a toolmaker. He retired from Delco Remy after 40 years as a Tool & Die Maker and Master Mold Maker.
He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He never missed an event the grandchildren were involved with over the years. He loved golfing and belonged to the Grandview Men’s Club. The lake cottage at Lake Webster was a highlight for over 30 years and he enjoyed spending time with all of his lake friends. He loved politics, watching golf, gardening, and traveling.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bonnie (Baker) Jones of Anderson whom he married on May 29, 1968; two daughters, Amy Hoagland and Jessica (Andy) Wirsch; five grandchildren, Gracie Hoagland, Campbell Quire, Sophia Hoagland, Baker Quire, and Taylor Wirsch; two beloved dogs, Stella and Nola; several nieces and nephews, Darren Baker, Patrick (Mikka) Baker, Todd (Lisa) Baker, Josh (Danielle) Castor, Tiffany (Mike) Maier, Morgan (Molly) Jones, Donna (Paul) Throesch, Scot Walker, Mark Walker, and Jeff Walker.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Jones; his mother and stepfather, Sarotta “Sally” Jones Straw and Bus Straw; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert and Florence Baker; a brother, Doug Jones; a sister, Sharon Jones Walker and two brothers-in-law, David and Terry Baker.
Funeral service will be at 11:00am on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service with Josh Castor officiating. Military rites will be conducted at the funeral home by the Daleville American Legion.
Visitation will be on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 4:00pm-8:00pm at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Animal Protection League or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com