Donnie Ray Jones was born to the late Preston Riley Jones and Annie Laura Philpott-Jones on November 16, 1946. He was the eldest of nine children. He accepted Christ at a young age. Donnie graduated from L.G Pinkston High School in Dallas, Texas. Upon graduating he worked various jobs, such as a caddie at a golf club. He also worked at Brookhollow Golf Club where he served as a cook. Donnie was very creative; he could carve sculptures out of ice. Donnie was the best cook, preparing delicious meals for his family and friends. He was an avid outdoorsman; in his leisure time he loved to hunt and fish. He also enjoyed sitting outside under the tree crafting things for hunting and fishing. During his later years he met and married the love of his life

Gwendolyn Jones. During this union they were blessed with two children. Donnie was a loving son, husband, father and grandfather. The love for his family was a bond that could not be broken, including the love he had for his siblings, nieces and nephews. Donnie departed this life on March 13, 2025. Donnie was preceded in death by his parents and four sisters. He leaves to cherish his memory, wife Gwendolyn Jones, two children; Calandra Kay, Kay (Jesse) Green, Timothy Oneal Jones, seven grandchildren, four great grandchildren and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, family and friends.