Samuel Bell Jones, 91, of St. George, Utah, peacefully returned to his Heavenly Father in his sleep on August 15, 2026. He was blessed to remain in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife, Mary, family members, and the compassionate care of Applegate Home Care and Hospice.

Sam was born on June 29, 1935, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Samuel D. Jones and Esther Anderson Jones. As the oldest child, he grew up with a strong work ethic. As a young boy, he helped on the family farm, milking cows as soon as he was old enough to carry a pail without spilling it. One of his favorite childhood stories was riding his bicycle from Cedar City to the family farm, where he stood on a whiskey barrel to harness a team of horses and prepare the fields for planting. Those experiences fostered a lifelong love of horses, especially his horse, Arab.

In 1954, Sam left college to serve his country in the United States Navy. During his service, he rose to Second-Class Petty Officer, earned certification as a helicopter mechanic, and played trumpet in the Navy Band. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Southern Utah and began a successful career in the automotive industry. Through the VA, he started working at Bradshaw Chevrolet before moving to Sunland Chevrolet in St. George in 1966, where he served as Service Manager. In 1977, he joined Newby Buick as Parts Manager, a position he held until his retirement in June 2002.

In 1962, Sam married Carola Carter. Together they welcomed three children, including their first son, Samuel Deor Jones, who lived only 12 hours. Sam later welcomed two more children, Neshia and Devin. Following their divorce in 1977, Sam met the love of his life, Mary, and Mary’s daughter Colleen. They married on November 26, 1977, beginning a loving partnership that would span nearly 50 years.

Retirement opened the door to many of Sam's favorite pursuits. An avid golfer, he and Mary spent countless hours on the course and traveled to golf destinations throughout the country. They also enjoyed extensive travel together, visiting the French Riviera, the Mediterranean Islands, Rome, Hawaii, Maui, and many other memorable destinations. They especially loved taking road trips in their cherished 1996 Chevrolet Corvette convertible.

Music was one of Sam's lifelong passions. He began playing the trumpet in fifth grade and continued throughout his life, performing in school bands, community ensembles, and the Navy Band. His favorite piece was Trumpeter's Lullaby, which he often performed at church services, civic events, and solo competitions. Sam frequently credited his band and orchestra teacher, A.B. Larson, for inspiring him to strive for excellence. Under Larson's demanding instruction, Sam became proficient at playing the trumpet.

Sam was also a devoted automobile enthusiast. He had a particular love for Chevrolet vehicles and enjoyed racing cars in his younger years, often emerging victorious. His favorite vehicles included a 1954 Chevrolet pickup, a 1958 Delray, a 1965 Chevrolet El Camino, a 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, and his and Mary’s treasured Corvette rag-top convertible.

He lived life fully, treasured his time at the family cabin on Cedar Mountain, enjoyed the companionship of his beloved cocker spaniels, and especially his childhood dog Wings, and cherished his time with Mary. He often remarked that he never imagined he would live into his nineties, and he hung on as long as he could to spend as much time as possible with his beloved wife, Mary, whom he loved with all his heart and soul.

Sam is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his children, Neshia (Jeff), Devin (Michelle), Colleen (Kelly); his grandchildren Jeffrey Tyler, Taft (Tamara), Taren (Grissell), Adrie (Logan), Sabrece (Dallin), Hollie, Mason (Camille) and baby coming soon, Skylar (Ethan), and baby coming soon and Samantha; his great-grandchildren Kenzie, Mickell, Aspen, Jackson, Miranda, Emma, Remington, Camden, and Ledger; and his siblings Gary (Jeanette), and Vicki (Ron).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel D. Jones and Esther Anderson Jones; his brother, Michael; and his son, Samuel Deor.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Cedar City Cemetery, 685 North Main Street, Cedar City, Utah.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Applegate Home Care and Hospice, especially Natalie, and to the many physicians, nurses, caregivers, and family and friends who provided comfort, kindness, and support throughout Sam's final journey. He leaves behind his wonderful family who will continue to build a legacy.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. 435-673-2454.

Family and friends are invited to share their condolenes and sign Sam's online guestbook at www.SpilsburyMortuary.com