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Dr. Vernon Jones, retired attorney and medical school professor, age 66, died suddenly in his home in Albuquerque, NM on Monday, August 18, 2003. Born at home on a cotton farm in Lauderdale County, Alabama, he grew up the youngest child in a hard-working, and loving family. His parents were Gracie and Grover Jones. His father died when Vernon was only age 11. With the care and support of his family, Vernon became the first family member to attend college. In 1958, he earned his bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology at the University of North Alabama. A brilliant student, Vernon was recruited by Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in doctoral studies at Cornell University in New York City two years later. In Albuquerque, Vernon joined a faculty of other bright and innovative educators to teach the first graduating class at the new University of New Mexico School of Medicine. While a professor, popular with the students, he performed medical research and authored or co-authored a large number of respected publications. Vernon attended the University New Mexico School of Law and earned a juris doctorate in 1974. He practiced in Albuquerque, combining law with his expertise in medicine. For some years, he continued teaching various courses as an adjunct faculty member of the medical school. Teaching and trying to inspire students to great achievements was one of his life's great passions. In his later years, he enjoyed the support of his former wife, Mrs. Evelyn Aaron of Albuquerque. Loving his grandchildren and watching them grow up healthy and vibrant became his greatest passion of all. Vernon is survived by his son, Jeffrey Jones of Corrales, NM and Jeffrey's wife, Heidi, and his adoring grandchildren, Quentin Mitchell Jones, Nicolette Quintana Jones, and Peter Douglas Jones. He is survived by a sister, Celestine McKee of Florence Alabama; and three brothers, Travis Jones of Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, Hermas Jones of Athens, Alabama, L.C. Jones of Anderson, Alabama, and a large extended family. Predeceasing him were his parents and a brother, Mitchell Jones. Three siblings died in infancy. Vernon is also survived by a great number of friends, all of them touched in a special way by his inspirational challenges to them to achieve their personal goals. Many people are unaware that he anonymously assisted them in finding a job or professional position. He would privately note their need and then would work diligently behind the scene ot have a potential employer contact them with an offer. Vernon was a free-thinking, authentic man and a true southern gentleman who treated people fairly and honestly. He will be missed. The family has donated Vernon's body to the UNM School of Medicine for medical science research. No memorial service has been scheduled at this time. The family requests any memorials be made in Vernon's name to"The Khatali Alumni Association" at the following address: UNM School of Medicine, Office of Development and Alumni Relations, MSCO* 4720, Albuquerque, NM 87131. This association provides financial assistance and scholarships to current medical students. French Mortuary 1111 University Blvd. NE 843-6333
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