Rae Nell Jones

Rae Nell Jones, 93, of Nederland, Texas, earned her wings on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. She was born on May 16, 1931, in San Augustine, Texas, to Ethel and Hardy Horn. Her early years were spent in Oklahoma before her family relocated to Port Arthur, Texas, in 1944 when she was 13.

As the second oldest of six siblings, Rae Nell naturally took on the role of a protector, mentor, and guiding light for her family. She led with kindness, offering unwavering support and wisdom, ensuring her loved ones always had a steady foundation to rely on.

She began her career in the 1950s as a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell, a job that prepared her for a lifelong profession in communications. She later joined Gulf Oil Company, where she served as a switchboard operator before advancing to teletype operator, a specialized role at the time. Through the company’s many transitions, Rae Nell remained a dedicated and respected presence until her retirement in 1988. Her professionalism, adaptability, and ability to connect with others made her an invaluable part of the workplace.

Rae Nell was a strong-willed, independent woman whose life was marked by many milestones, but none more important than the birth of her only beloved son, Kevin, in 1959. From that moment on, he became the center of her world, and she dedicated herself to ensuring he had not just love and guidance, but a life rich with experiences. With a car packed to the brim with nieces, nephews, and enough snacks to last a small army, she hit the road, leading the family on unforgettable journeys. From the towering peaks of Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona to the thrill of Six Flags and the awe-inspiring depths of Carlsbad Caverns, every trip was an adventure filled with laughter, discovery, and just the right amount of controlled chaos. And while every destination was unique, Kevin’s favorite—Jackson Hole, Wyoming—always held a little extra magic. For Rae Nell, these trips weren’t just about sightseeing but also about creating memories, strengthening family bonds, and proving that the best moments in life happen when you’re together.

Rae Nell wasn’t just a traveler and a family matriarch—she was also a talented singer with a voice that could captivate a room. As the only female member of the exclusive Vocalaires Quartet, she brought both grace and power to their harmonies. In 1964, the group recorded an album titled “Thy Will Be Done,” a beautiful collection of gospel music that appealed to audiences across generations. Whether singing in church, at gatherings, or on a professional recording, Rae Nell’s voice was a reflection of her faith, strength, and deep love for music. Her passion for singing remained a cherished part of her life, leaving behind melodies that still echo in the hearts of those who had the privilege to hear her.

Above all, Rae Nell’s faith was the foundation of her life. A devoted member of the Church of Christ, she lived by her deep and abiding belief in God. She celebrated her faith with her family, singing hymnals and praying together, finding strength and comfort in worship. Her faith shaped her character, instilling a spirit of kindness, resilience, and devotion to those she loved.

To Rae Nell, her son, Kevin, was the joy of her life. She poured her heart into raising him, ensuring he had love and guidance and a world full of faith, experiences, and adventure. She took immense pride in the man he became—a devoted husband, father, follower of Our Lord and Savior—always supporting him with unwavering love and encouragement.

Her greatest reward in life was watching her family grow, a journey that truly began when she gained not just a daughter-in-law, but a kindred spirit in Patti. From the moment Patti joined the family, Rae Nell embraced her not as an in-law, but as the daughter she never had. Some of their fondest memories were spent side by side, laughing and lending hands as they tackled projects together—hanging wallpaper, climbing ladders, and making Kevin and Patti’s first house a home.

With Patti by her side, Rae Nell’s joy only deepened as she became a grandmother to Britton and Karah, which brought her immeasurable joy. She cherished every moment with them—celebrating milestones, sharing wisdom, and creating memories that would last a lifetime. Whether she was spoiling them with love, telling stories from her past, or simply sitting beside reading the Bible to them, Rae Nell made sure Britton and Karah always knew how deeply they were loved.

Her life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and the unbreakable family bond—especially between a mother and her son and a grandmother and her grandchildren.

She is survived by her son, Kevin Lee Jones and his wife, Patti, of Nederland; grandchildren, Britton Patrick Jones and his wife, Kimberly, and Karah Lorraine Jones; and her brothers, Charles Horn, Kenneth Horn, and Curtis Horn.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Herman Horn, and her sister, Glenda Reece.

A gathering of Mrs. Jones’ family and friends will begin at 9:00 a.m., with her funeral service at 10:00 a.m., Monday, February 3, 2025, at Broussard’s, 505 North 12^th Street, Nederland. Her interment will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Groves.

Though she will be deeply missed, Rae Nell’s legacy will continue in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with her loved ones, watching over them with the same warmth and devotion she always carried in life.