June Vernell Jones

June Vernell (Gray) Jones, 83

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”

June Vernell (Gray) Jones, lovingly known as “Sis,” passed away peacefully at home on April 3, 2025, at the age of 83, with her devoted husband of 37 years, Norman Jones, by her side. The two resided in West Haven, Connecticut, where Norman tenderly cared for her throughout her final days.

June was born on June 1, 1941, in Bowling Green, Virginia, to the late James and Dorthy (Miller) Gray. She was baptized at a young age at Bethel Baptist Church in Virginia, where she began a lifelong journey as a woman of faith. Her love for the Lord was evident in the way she cared for others—ensuring that no one ever went without.

After moving to Connecticut, June attended Hillhouse High School. She later enjoyed a long and dedicated career at Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford, CT, where she worked for 35 years before retiring. She was a member of Faith Baptist Church in West Haven until her health prevented her from attending in person. Even then, she faithfully watched services on TV, always keeping her connection to God strong.

June found great joy in simple pleasures—spending time with her husband, enjoying meals out, and doing good deeds for others. Her loyalty and generosity knew no bounds, especially toward her family and friends. She cherished her long-lasting friendships with Hattie Allen and Ella Smith, whom she considered blessings.

As the second of nine children, June played a vital role in caring for her siblings. When each one left Virginia for Connecticut, she ensured they had everything they needed and more. Her door and heart were always open.

June is survived by her beloved husband, Norman Jones, her daughter Penney Gray, and her son Anthony Leathers. She leaves behind two cherished grandsons, Jemell and Branden Brown, and her precious great-granddaughter, Genesis Torres-Brown. She is also survived by her sisters, Gloria Abrams, Doris Davis (Simuel), Gigi Snipes, and her brother Kenneth Gray.

She was predeceased by her sisters Jonnest Gray, and Sandra Flood, brothers James Gray Jr. and Herbert Gray and step-son Norman Jones III. She leaves behind two stepdaughters Nicole Novembre(Evenson) and Deanna Jones. She also leaves behind three step-grandchildren: Sameria Dukes, Rockeim Dukes, and James “Doobie” Shelton IV (predeceased).

A special acknowledgment goes to Sameria Dukes, whose selfless care for June touched the entire family. Despite facing her own health challenges, Sameria gave of herself wholeheartedly to care for both her grandmother and grandfather. Your love, strength, and compassion did not go unnoticed. We are incredibly proud of the young woman you are and the woman you are becoming. God has great plans for you, and you deserve every blessing He brings your way.

We also wish to thank Shani Graham, Totlyn White, and Shaleetha Mitchell—aides from Guided Care—for their outstanding service and genuine love for June. Your professionalism and devotion went far beyond your job descriptions. You treated her with tenderness, dignity, and joy. She loved you deeply, and we are forever grateful. Thank you also to all the aides who supported her along the way—your work was invaluable.

A celebrations of June’s life will take place on Friday April 11, 2025 at Colonial Funerals, 86 Circular Avenue Hamden, CT 06514. Viewing in Colonial from 10am-11am. Burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, 769 Ella T. Grasso Blvd, New Haven, CT 06519 and a repass immediately following burial at Pitts Chapel, 64 Brewster St, New Haven, CT 06511. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.