Christopher Merrell Jones, 50, of Ponca City, Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023 in Tulsa, OK, after a long battle with diabetes. Chris was born to Tommy Joe and Merletta Kay Jones in Blackwell, Oklahoma, on December 31, 1972. he grew up and attended school in Newkirk, OK, graduating with the class of 1991.

He met his future wife, Deb (Rutherford) Jones in Ponca City in 1993. They were married on June 25, 1994. They welcomed their daughter, Ashton, in 1999 and their son, Haydan, in 2003. Chris and Deb divorced in 2015 but remained good friends.

Chris worked a variety of jobs throughout his short life. He worked for the City of Ponca City for 10 years in the water/wastewater department where he made lifelong friends. He also enjoyed working at Pioneer Equipment Rental and Drisco. He was working at Lowe’s unitl his health forced him to retire in 2022.

Chris was not known for sitting still. When he was younger, he enjoyed team roping, playing slow pitch softball, and riding horses. In high school, he played football and sang in the choir. Chris loved cooking and baking. He was known for his different kinds of cheesecake and his pumpkin roll.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, brother Jason Jones, cousin Brian Goddard, and others.

He is survived by his children, Ashton and Haydan Jones, his ex-wife Deb Jones, brother Bobby Jones, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, and friends.

He will be laid to rest at a later date in Resthaven memorial Park Cemetery.

A celebration of life service will be held Wednesday, November 22 at 3 pm at St. Luke’s Church, 1715 E Prospect, Ponca City.

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