Willie Jerry Jones, Sr. Endowed Scholarship

Willie Jerry Jones, Sr., respectfully known as “Jerry,” was a native of Huntsville, Walker County, Texas. He was the only child born to Jerome and Jerline Jones. Eager to familiarize himself with farming, he would often assist his parents with cropping fields. Losing his father at age 7, Jerry developed a passion for agriculture with emphasis on cattle. After graduating from Sam Houston High School of Huntsville in 1941, he enlisted and served in the United States Navy during the plight of World War II. Upon becoming honorably discharged, Jerry returned to Huntsville and married his high school sweetheart, Mary B. Travis. Together they raised four children. In 1956, Jerry and his wife Mary purchased over 1000 acres of land near the Sam Houston National Forest in Walker County. This property eventually was legally titled the Jones Addition. Shortly thereafter, Jerry would become one of Huntsville’s most prestigious cattle ranchers owning hundreds of head of cattle. To add to his duties of cattle ranching, he was also one of the town’s barbers. butchers (owning Jerry Quality Meats), and an insurance and hail bond agent. Serving his community in various realms. his passion was always helping others, and remaining faithful to his agricultural roots. His love for agriculture continues through his family today. His ranch, now owned by his family, employs students pursuing their education in Agricultural and Animal Science. The family of Willie Jerry Jones, Sr. would like to continue to influence Sam Houston graduates to enter into careers in agricultural science with this endowment.

Jennifer was born January 14, 1973 in Houston, Texas. She was raised primarily by both her maternal and paternal grandparents. As a young girl, she lived with her maternal grandparents in Houston during !he school year, and spent every summer in Huntsville with her paternal grandparents (Willie Jerry and Mary B. Jones). Jennifer graduated in 1991 from Forest Brook Senior High School. She was accepted to Sam Houston Slate University and attended until her health began to decline. Foregoing continuing her education, she and her late husband focused on giving !heir two sons, Myles and Lyndon Jones, the education that would be needed lo empower future generations. While doing so, Jennifer’s health would constantly decline, often leaving her physically impaired. During this time it was through donations and sponsorships from various donors that allowed her two young sons to continue their private school education from elementary through high school. It was always her late husband’s dream to empower young individuals to continue their education. Today five years after the passing of her husband, Jennifer and her sons continue lo support various charities, and are always willing lo lend a helping hand whenever it’s needed. Through this scholarship endowment, the Jones Family hopes to empower, support, and continue the legacy of giving to the future professionals of this university.