Jeff Jones

Jeff Jones, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away May 1st surrounded by his wife, daughters and good friend and brother Eric Strand just shy of his 67th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of deep love, unwavering faith, and quiet strength. He was preceded in death by his parents, JE and Ima (nee Nolen) Jones, and his sister Becky.

A man of fierce loyalty and gentle presence, Jeff lived his life in service to others—through his family, his church, his martial arts community, and volunteering at the local Food Bank. He cherished simple routines, canoeing at Rosalind Lake when his daughters were young, taking weekend trips with Leslie, the love of his life, to having tea parties and basketball games with his grandchildren and feeding the hummingbirds, each act a reflection of his attentive and generous spirit.

Jeff’s passion for martial arts began at the age of 15 when he first entered a Tae Kwon Do school. He quickly demonstrated exceptional dedication, earning his black belt in Tae Kwon Do before transitioning to Kenpo, where he would make his mark as a true master. Twelve years ago, he was honored with the title of Grand Master of Kenpo, a distinction presented to him by his Sensei, Tim Teausant, currently based in Dallas, Texas.

Throughout his martial arts career, Jeff not only earned the respect of his peers but also passed on his knowledge and expertise to countless students. He and Tim ran their martial arts school, First Street Kenpo in Gresham for several years then trained students in various locations—whether in his garage, his students’ garages, or different clubs. Many of his students earned black belts of various degrees, carrying forward his legacy of discipline, integrity, and dedication.

Jeff was a man of integrity and conviction, never hesitating to stand up for those he loved. Whether he was rooting for the Packers or sharing quiet moments with his family, he was present—fully and sincerely. His wisdom was earned, his laughter was honest, and his love constant.

In recent years, Jeff embraced new adventures—from jiu-jitsu training, kayaking at Estacada Lake to dreams of cross-country train travel once Leslie retired. Yet, he remained grounded in what mattered most: faith, family, and compassion. He believed deeply in kindness, often reminding others that judgment belongs to God alone.

Jeff’s impact reached far beyond words. He showed up—for Leslie, his daughters Katie and Annie, his grandchildren, and his friends. He was a Grand Master of Kenpo Karate who loved a good book, a devoted Face Timer with his daughters and grandchildren, and a man whose quiet acts of care will echo for generations.

He is survived by his loving wife Leslie (nee Kingsley), daughters Kaitlin (Eric) Bruce, Annie (Tony) Misenhimer, and grandchildren Andy and Ava Misenhimer and Jason and Savannah Bruce, extended family, and the many lives he touched with his steady grace. Jeff’s life was a gift. His memory is a blessing. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A private celebration of his life will be held in the fall.  If you’d like an invitation, please reach out to Leslie Jones. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Estacada Food Bank, a cause that was close to his heart. Donations can be made online through Venmo at https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1290657 or sent directly to the Estacada Food Bank at PO Box 1196, Estacada, OR 97023. Your support will honor Jeff’s legacy of giving and service to others.