In Loving Memory of Professor Paul “Bunky” Jones III
Paul Jones Ill—a revered educator. devoted mentor, and lifelong son of Alabama—
passed away peacefully at his residence on July 24, 2026, at the age of ninety-three, following a prolonged illness faced with immense dignity.
A Rich Ancestral Heritage
Born on April 3, 1933, in Wilcox County, Alabama, Paul was the son of Paul Everett Jones Jr. and Kathleen Fennel Doan Jones. He was the proud grandson of Mary Fail and Paul Everett Jones Sr. of Camden, and Dr. James Doan and Rebecca Fennel Doan Delony. Born into a family with deep ancestral roots that shaped the political, educational, legal, agricultural, and financial landscapes of Alabama and Paul possessed a lifelong passion for genealogy. Through his mother’s lineage, he
descended from one of Northwest Alabama’s pioneer families who settled in Morgan County and in eastern area which eventually became Colbert County, and the historic town of Leighton. Through his father’s lineage, he was a direct descendant of Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States, and William Rufus King. Vice President of the United States and Alabama’s first native-born U.S. Senator. Reflecting on this rich history. He held proud memberships in the First Families of Virginia and The Society of
Cincinnati.
A Lifelong Passion for Education
Paul followed closely in the footsteps of his father, a beloved educator at Colbert County High School in Leighton, dedicating his own life to the study of language and the enrichment of others. As a proud graduate of the University of Alabama, he
that the university experience should champion personal growth alongside academic achievement- Demonstrating this belief early on, Paul and his brother James successfully established a fraternity house on the University of Alabama campus. His distinguished career as a professor of linguistics and languages spanned continents and prestigious institutions. His passion for global education took him “across the big water.” where he taught abroad and shared his expertise on an international stage. State Side, He shaped minds at the University of Texas. the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), and the University of Alabama.
A Lasting Legacy in North Alabama
Upon returning to North Alabama, he accepted a professorship at the University of North Alabama (UNA)- Seeking to enrich student life beyond the classroom. Paul founded the Delta Theta chapter of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity at UNA, serving as its dedicated chapter advisor until his retirement as Distinguished Professor Emeritus. Known for his profound devotion to his students, Professor Jones was widely regarded as one of the most beloved faculty members at every institution he served. For a man who shaped thousands of minds and futures, he wore many titles throughout his long life, but none brought him greater pride than that of a truly beloved professor the ultimate honor for a dedicated educator His impact extended far beyond academia; decades after his retirement, a steady stream of former students regularly visited his Leighton home. To those he taught, he was never merely a former professor, but a lifelong mentor, wise counselor, and cherished friend
Survivors and Gratitude
He is survived by his beloved brother, Dre James Ee Jones, with whom he shared a lifetime of profound affection, mutual respect, and a shared calling to higher education, as James also served as a university professor. During his extended illness, Paul’s final years were filled with comfort and peace, thanks to the exceptionally tender and loving care provided by his devoted team of caretakers. There will be a Graveside Service on Thursday, July 30 at 10 am at King Cemetery, in Leighton, Alabama. Directions: From State Highway 20, turn onto county line road heading South. Approximately 1.5 miles turn left on to Cottontown Road. Approx 3 miles you will see a white sign which is advertisement for Qual Hunting. Turn right on the pave road. Go about 1/4 mile. The Cemetery will be on your left.
Contemplating a Memorial
You may want to consider the following: The Leighton Public Library, Any Animal Shelter of your Choice and Leighton United Methodist Church.
