Family and friends gather to remember Jonathan “Jon” Jones of Lisbon

The communities of Lisbon and Mount Vernon came together on Sunday afternoon to celebrate the life of Jonathan “Jon” Jones, 41, of Lisbon at his funeral service in Mount Vernon on Sunday afternoon.

Described throughout the service as being an extremely hard working, devoted father, son, brother, and friend, the circumstances surrounding Jones's death last week at Palisades Kepler Park were not lingered upon.

Instead, Jones's quick reaction to jump into the Cedar River to save two struggling children last Sunday evening was celebrated and described as being the greatest testament to Jones's selflessness and concern for others.

Reverend David Dierks described Jones as being the type of man that would leave a lasting impression on everyone he met, with his optimistic “go getter” no-excuses attitude and love for those around him.

“Would he have jumped back into that water again, knowing what would happen to him?” Reverend Dierks implored to the mourners, as nods spread across the room. “Absolutely.”

Born on June 13, 1970 in Iowa City, Jones graduated from Lisbon High School in 1988. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and enjoyed Nascar racing. Jones was mostly recently studying architecture at ITT College in Cedar Rapids, receiving high academic honors for his classroom performance this past semester.

Jones is survived by his two young children, David and Tabitha, mother Deb, brother Kennith , father Loyd, maternal grandmother Mary Laing and innumerable friends. Jones was preceded in death by his brother P.F.C. David L. Jones of the United States Marine Corps.

Memorials may be made to the David and Tabitha Jones Trust fund, in care of Community Savings Bank, 101 East Usher, Edgewood, Iowa, 52402.