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Cathy Mae Jones, age 71, passed away peacefully in her home on January 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Cathy was born on January 12, 1954, in Corning, New York, to Alex and Addie Mae Stinson. She was raised alongside her three brothers and two sisters.
She proudly served her country in the United States Air Force before continuing her dedication to public service through a 20-year career in civil service. Her strong work ethic and commitment to service were hallmarks of her life. She made many lifelong friends throughout her career, whom she remembered fondly over the years.
In 1996, Cathy married the love of her life, Ricky Jones. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work and partnership. They were the proud owners of Desert Sands Stripping, a business they operated side by side for over 30 years. Through sickness and in health, Ricky’s love and devotion to Cathy never wavered. He remained a pillar of strength for her until the very end.
Cathy was also a 10-year lung transplant survivor, a testament to her strength, resilience, and determination.
Cathy is survived by her husband, Ricky Jones, of the family home; her children, Shawna (Chris) Vann and James (Kellie) Bennett, both of Alamogordo; her grandchildren, Jordan Overy, Breanna Martinez, Nikolas Bennett, and Pacie Bennett; and her great-grandchildren, Elorianna, Emybelle, and Eriella, all of Alamogordo.
She is also survived by her siblings, Velma Cotterill of Eustis, FL; Donnie (Janice) Delong of Groton, NY; Tina (Wayne) Delong of Lansing, NY; Louie (Ann) Delong of Newfield, NY; and her sister-in-law, Nena Stinson of Groton, NY, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alex and Addie Mae Stinson; her brother, Forrest Stinson; her in-laws, Paul and Gloria Jones; and the best dog in the world, Huh-Mutt.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 pm on January 23, 2026 at Mountain View Church located at 1300 Cuba Ave in Alamogordo, NM 88310
Cathy leaves behind a legacy of service, perseverance, and love that will be cherished by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
The Jones family has entrusted their loved one to the care of PCS Direct Cremation Service for direct cremation.
