Jones – Capt. Walter A. “Tony” Jones, age 71, passed away on January 3, 2026, at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. He was born on December 3, 1954, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, to the late Capt. Luther F. Jones and Virginia Cagle Mattson. Tony moved to the Jacksonville area from Smithfield, Virginia, and graduated from Ribault High School in 1972. Following graduation, he honorably served four years in the United States Navy. After completing his military service, Tony followed in his father’s footsteps, beginning a career on tugboats and eventually becoming a tugboat captain. Tony devoted more than 50 years to working on ocean-going tugboats, often living aboard and spending nearly 300 days a year at sea. He was well known for his love of singing and playing the guitar, especially his favorite songs, “Turn the Page” and “Southern Cross.” He also enjoyed time at the gun range, playing chess and poker, and, most importantly, spending time with his family and his beloved dogs, Gracie and Coco. Tony was a true treasure to his family and friends and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Patricia Jones.

Tony is survived by his stepfather, W. Richard Mattson, Sr. of Jacksonville, FL.; daughter, Jennifer Lynn Jones of Virginia; brothers, Ronnie (Debbie) Jones of Yulee, FL., Les Jones of Barhamsville, VA.; sisters, Cynthia (Warren) Jones Schroeder of Jacksonville, FL., Pam Jones of Orange Park, FL., Debbie Jones of Orange Park, FL., Kimberly Jones of Jacksonville, FL. along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Jacksonville National Cemetery were military honors will be rendered. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ferreira Funeral Services, 1320 Chaffee Road South, Jacksonville, FL, 32221, 904-378-7777.