Mr. ML "Pretty Papa" Jones

March 24, 1926 - May 10, 2022

Mr. ML Jones, 96, of Peoria, IL passed away at 6:29 pm on Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at his residence. ML also known as “Pretty Papa Jones” was born on March 24, 1926 in Ripley, TN. He married Rosie Foster and to that union seven children were born. ML worked at Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery in Peoria Heights, IL as a laborer for many years, retiring in 1982 when the business closed. He was also a Master Barber. ML was a Dodgers Baseball team fan. He loved bowling, playing pool and dancing. ML was one of the nicest guys you could know. ML leaves to cherish his most precious memories four sons, Bobby (Elaine) Jones, Sr. of Romeoville, IL, Jimmie Jones of Peoria, IL, Berwyn (Yvette) Jones of Downers Grove, IL and Brian (Antoinette) Jones of Romeoville, IL; two daughters, Laurie Jones and Lisa (Gayland) Ford both of Peoria, IL; nineteen grandchildren; a host of great and great-great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Billy Jones and Jonnie Jones; seven brothers and five sisters. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at New Morning Star M.B. Church with a visitation beginning at 10 am. Pastor Cleveland Thomas, Sr. will officiate. M.L. will be laid to rest at Historic Springdale Cemetery. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com. The service will be live streamed on Simons Mortuary's Website or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Simons-Mortuary-232095303487150 promptly AT THE TIME OF THE SERVICE (Central Time). Due to Covid-19, social distancing is encouraged to be consistent with recommendations from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral home directors have been instructed and should follow CDC guidelines on gatherings, including those directly related to funerals, visitations, or graveside services. *In an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we ask that everyone in attendance: wear a face mask and refrain from hugging, kissing and shaking hands (as hard as it is to see someone you care about and not touch them). *It is our responsibility as Funeral Directors, to do everything we can to advise families in order to honor our beloved Families and to keep everyone as safe as possible. Thanks in advance for your cooperation!