Dates
Darlynne LaRue Jones; "LaRue" was called home on February 17, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at Reagan County Care Center in Big Lake, Texas. She was the widow of Wade Jones, sharing 66 years of marriage together. LaRue was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ in Big Lake. After Big Lake’s Church of Christ closed, LaRue loved worshipping at the First Baptist Church of Big Lake.
LaRue was born on February 23,1933 in Whittenburg, Texas to Charlie and Geanie Plumlee Hart. After moving to Big Lake, she became an employee of the telephone company where she worked as a switchboard operator. After the purchase of what became Jones Garage, LaRue oversaw the books from 1957 to 1996. During that time, she also worked as a bookkeeper and store clerk for Shaffer Lumber Company, followed by the Reagan County Tax Office, retiring in 1996.
Early on, LaRue enjoyed playing softball. She showed pride in her family and friends by scrapbooking their growth and milestones. Throughout the years, she played dominoes and cards with friends and family, having no mercy on her opponents. Wade and LaRue toured 49 states on the motorcycle or in the motorhome, accompanied by family members and friends.
Grandma Rue enjoyed time with her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She would sit on the floor and play with them. Grandma Rue raced vehicles, played games like “Old Maid,” “Go Fish,” and “Monopoly,” and showed them the ropes in “Mexican train.” One thing she ensured was how to properly strategize when playing “Tic-Tac-Toe” to give a competitive edge to win. Grandma Rue introduced the grandchildren to many traditions. She baked Christmas cookies, hung personalized Christmas ornaments, and allowed them to decorate the tree to their liking.
As a resident at the care center, LaRue created strong relationships in her newfound community. She shopped with the girls, had fun on the patio, ensured her caretakers were fed, and recognized them for their service.
LaRue touched many hearts with her acts of kindness and praise towards them. She will be remembered for being quick-witted, fashionable, and having immense love for others.
LaRue is survived by sons, Mikel Jones and wife Laura of San Angelo, Texas, and son Terry Jones and wife Lori of Big Lake, Texas. Grandchildren: Bryan Jones (Amy), Tori Jones, Paul Jones (Michelle), Daryl Jones (Kara), Ellen Clark (Justin). Great grandchildren: Taya Quain, Katelynn Quain, Skyler Browder, Taylor Younts, M.C. Fry, Jace Clark, Avery Jones, Scott Jones, Slate Clark, Avery Clark, Cole Jones, Wyatt Jones, Gracie Jones. Great-great grandchildren: Ryley Parker Quain, Asher Younts, Lakelyn Younts. Sister in laws: Mary Nell Hesse, Phyllis Hatchett, Ginger Waller and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Wade Jones, her siblings: Rue Ell Camp, Calvin Hart, Ophelia Witt, Marvin Hart, and Marlin Hart.
LaRue’s family would like to thank the Reagan County Care Center, Reagan Hospital District, and HOSA staff for their care for LaRue and her family.
LaRue’s visitation will be held on Friday February 21, from 5-7 pm at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, Texas. A celebration of her life will be held on Sunday, February 23, at 3 pm at the Reagan County Care Center.