Lasting Memories
Robert Bruce Jones
1929-June 23, 2014
El Dorado Hills, California
Born in humble Rigby Idaho in 1929, Dr. Robert Bruce Jones (affectionately known as Bruce) was raised in Provo, Utah, by a single mother (Louise Williams Jones), and died peacefully at home in EI Dorado Hills, CA, surrounded by loving family members on June 23, 2014. In between, he spent over 40 wonderful years in Woodside, CA.
Dr. Jones was many things to many people. He was a veteran of the Korean War, an ROTC instructor, a 1960 graduate of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, a lay minister for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and actively involved in multiple civil activities.
He literally sacrificed?though he would not call it such?thousands of hours working with those in spiritual, personal and financial need and was a friend to all who came into contact with him. He dedicated his life to many philanthropic endeavors and was a full tithe payer to his church.
Dr. Jones practiced dentistry in the wonderful town of Woodside for over 40 years; his office was just a few doors down from "The Pub." His patients spanned from newly arrived, impoverished immigrants from Tonga and Samoa to the well-established rich and famous, including singer-songwriter, Neil Young.
However, most of his patients were ordinary working people; some families had him as their dentist for three generations. Skilled at his craft, and always on call, he relieved their pain. Children at his practice were always greeted with a toy treasure chest, from which to pick one?and often more-prizes.
Dr. Jones provided free dentistry to hundreds of missionaries and other members of the community without financial means; this not only involved sacrifice of time but real money out of his pocket due to the cost of materials.
He went on service missions for his church, worked with the mentally ill and developmentally disabled, and spontaneously assisted strangers. Just one example of this involved making a partial denture free of charge for a woman he met on the streets of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, while he was on vacation. Not even his dearest wife Carol knows all that he has done -- only his Heavenly Father knows.
Above all else, Dr. Jones was a wonderful husband and father. More than just an exceptional provider, he was a constant example of living his faith and of trying to leave the world a better place.
He taught his family right from wrong, was generous beyond fault, forgiving, caring, slow to anger, a peacemaker, and a true leader and lover of people.
One would be hard-pressed to find a single person who did not like and respect him. Dr. Jones also had a very strong intellect and quiet wit, which always put others at ease and made them laugh. He had a serious world view, but never took himself too seriously.
He is sorely missed but peacefully residing with his God surrounded by loving family members who went before him.
He is survived by Carol, his wife of 64 years, his seven children, his 30 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Oct. 17, 2014
I was thereworked as the Receptionist in Bruce Jones office from 1978 to 1984. He was so wonderful to work for. A good man and I remember when I needed advise help, He was there for me and my girls. I'll never forget his kindness. Thinking of you Dr. JONES AND BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU FROM ME...MY GIRLS. LINDA. Your Receptionist and your friend.
July 15, 2014
Bruce was a wonderful Bishop and Dentist. I never knew a kinder and more thoughtful, generous person. Warren and I knew he and Carol well being invited to their home many times . When we were thinking of moving he insisted I have all my dental work done before leaving, although not sure when we were. As it happened he just continued one gold crown or filling after another, not even sure if he billed or cared much about our insurance. (I never did have much dental work done as a child). I now have a mouth full of gold (he made sure of enamel when I smile though). Then one time he filed my canine teeth so I wouldn't look quite like a wolf. Yes he was a character too.
June 29, 2014
I grew up with Bruce's grandson Ryan Gil, and came to know Bruce very well the first 18 years of my life. I don't think I've ever met a more genuine, kind, and generous man. He always put others before himself. Part of the reason I am a dentist is because of the love of dentistry he instilled in me. I am sad to hear of his passing, but I know he's in a better place. And probably still cracking jokes as well!!
June 28, 2014
Our family will always remember Bruce and Carol for their acceptance and love for all, even with our "warts". All our children learned to swim in their pool, always open for us. Our gold covered teeth were, I am sure, at a discounted price. He was an exceptionally uncommon man in a common body; generous, kind, and, especially, understanding. We will truly miss him, especially his sense of humor. As Debbie C. said, "A most excellent man".
June 27, 2014
Dr. Jones was my boss, but foremost my friend. His kindness was the reason I became active in Church, after a few years absence. His example of goodness, is unmatched and he will be missed by all who shared a part in his world. A most excellent man.
June 27, 2014
Bruce called me to be his 2nd counselor in the bishopric along with Bill Greenburg as 1st. I remember when the old bishop was being released and bill and I were kidding him about being the next bishop, he said to us think that's funny, just wait just for that Bill you are first counselor and Bernie you are 2nd. We did not take it serious until the stake president came to visit. I did not serve long as job requirements caused me to move .va5pm
June 27, 2014
Bernie, I had not heard that story. Quite a good one! One of my favorites was when Bruce was giving a talk about the importance of doing family history and an old man entered in the front side door to the chapel. This man interrupted Bruce's talk then claimed to be his long lost relative. Well it was really a friend of Bishop Bruce Jones and was arranged ahead of time. Quite a memorable talk! I hope Dr Bruce is still having fun above like he did here. We will miss you.
June 27, 2014
This occurred while Bruce was a counselor. Ed Schow and I were assigned to help a single women in the ward hook up her gas stove. We went there and did the job only hooked it to a water pipe. The next day was Sunday at priesthood Bruce got up and told this story about two home teachers who hooked up the stove to a water line and because of this the story has continued to be told many times