Simone Jones

Simone Yvonne Van Gorp Jones, 90 of Gulfport passed away on February 21, 2018 in Poteau, Oklahoma.  She was born November 23, 1927 in Floing, France  to Joseph and Amelie Van Gorp.  She married Arvis Jones in 1946 while he was serving in the US Army during WWII.  She turned 19 on the boat in route to Ellis Island.  She was a lifelong resident of Gulfport, but resided with her daughter, Michelle Lena Stephens Ward and grandchildren, Hannah Marie and Ryan Thomas Ward in Poteau, Oklahoma for five years.
Simone is preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Arvis Jones; second husband, Earl Stephens; ; son, Daniel Jones; grandson, Alan Jones; granddaughters, Jennifer and Alisha Jones; and five brothers and sisters.
Survivors include brother, Paul Van Gorp of France; sons, Jimmy Jones (Jane) of South Carolina, Jerry Jones (late Sandra Jones) of Gulfport, Gary Jones (Nina) of Biloxi, Michelle Stephens Ward of Poteau, OK; grandchildren, Tammy Mandeville (Scott), Tina Phillips (Johnny), Jeramy Jones (Jada), Jared Jones, Hannah Ward, and Ryan Ward; great-grandchildren, Taylor Cowan (Ally), Alexa and Page Cowan, Bailey and Britain Wedgeworth, Chevy Jones, Kevin and Kenneth Jenkins, Mercedes Outz, Savannah Green, and extended family.
She was a homemaker and caregiver to her children, grandchildren, and others who needed help.  She will be remembered for her generosity and strong will.  Simone grew up in a large family of brothers and sisters.  Simone passed along fascinating stories of life during wartime in France and raising her children after being widowed at 36 years of age.  She will be missed by all and especially by her best friend and granddaughter, Hannah Ward, who she had a strong bond with.
Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, MS.  A graveside service will be held at Wolf River Cemetery.