JACKSON, MI — Dawn Foods announced that Evelyne Jones, matriarch of the Jones family, which has owned the company since 1955, passed away on Sept. 17. She was 107 years old.
“My grandmother, Evelyne, was an extraordinary woman whose love, wisdom and dedication shaped our family, and provided a strong foundation of values for Dawn,” said Carrie Jones-Barber, CEO of Dawn Foods. “She was a beacon of strength and grace, always leading with kindness. As we grieve her passing, we also celebrate her remarkable life and the legacy she leaves behind. Her influence will continue to guide and inspire us as we move forward.”
"As we grieve her passing, we also celebrate her remarkable life and the legacy she leaves behind. Her influence will continue to guide and inspire us as we move forward.” — Carrie Jones-Barber | CEO | Dawn Foods
Evelyne was born in 1916 in Reading, MI. She married Marlin Jones in 1936, and the pair went on to purchase Dawn Donut Co. in 1955.
She had five children: Ron, Steven, Miles, Edwin and Janet. Of those, Ron serves as chair emeritus and Miles as board chair for Dawn Foods. Her legacy continues at the company with her grandchildren working in various capacities. In addition to Jones-Barber, Sam Jones heads North America sales operation, and both serve alongside Aaron Jones and Sarah Richmond as active members of Dawn’s board of directors.
In addition to her contributions at Dawn, Evelyne supported Jackson, MI, by establishing the Jones Family Fund through the Jackson Community Foundation. She was also an active supporter of local arts and music. Evelyne created Jackson College’s Evelyne Jones Vocal Scholarship Fund. Her philanthropy continued through her support of the Jackson Women’s Club, The Ella Sharp Museum and the Red Cross.
