Raymond "Hard Times" Jones, Sr., 79, of Bay City passed away Wednesday, March 23, 2011. He was born in Nederland, Texas on July 3, 1931 to the late Arthur G. and Mattie Hargraves Jones. He worked in the oilfield as a roughneck early in life. He worked for the Texas Highway Department in the late 1950's. He then worked for Townsend Lease Service as a backhoe operator from 1960-64. In 1964 he started Jones Back Hoe Service. He worked in Matagorda County for businesses, individuals, construction and pipeline work throughout Texas. He married Albina Annie Talafuse July 10, 1952. Raymond was known for his expert ability as a backhoe operator . In the 1980's his interest turned to ranching with cattle operations centered in the Blessing area. Fishing was a favorite pastime for him and he "wet a line" as often as he could.

He leaves behind a loving wife of 58 years, Albina Talafuse Jones; daughter, Brenda Srubar and husband Kenneth of Bay City; sons; Raymond Jones, Jr. and wife Sandra Sullivan Jones of Bay City and Michael Charles Jones and wife Patsy McLeod Jones of Bay City; sister Margie Barlow of Bay City; Brother, Robert A. Jones and wife Debbie of Bay City; 7 grandchildren and 13 Great-grandchildren.

Visitation from 3pm to 9pm Friday with the family present from 7pm to 9pm. Funeral services 10:00 A.M. Saturday at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Pastor Forrest Harter officiating. Pallbearers will be Kenneth Srubar, Aaron Srubar, Henry Zarate, Bill Davant, Michael Robert Jones, and Raymond Jones Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be Michael Charles Jones and Vic Collins. Burial to follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Donations may be made to Holy Cross Catholic School, 2001 Katy Ave., Bay City, Texas in Raymond's name or to charity of your choice.