Last updated on September 9, 2020
Chief Master Sergeant Johnny D. Jones, age 69, of Rockwall, TX, passed away on September 3, 2020. He was born November 22, 1950, in Terrell, TX, to Thomas Rains and Betty Jo (Moore) Rains. Johnny was a dedicated military man whose patriotism was evidenced by his lifelong service to his country. He was the humblest of men, and known for his loyalty and devotion to his family. While he was a man of countless accolades, awards and honors, all who knew him would tell you Johnny was most proud of his family. He loved to make people laugh with crazy shenanigans, and would give everything he had to help someone in need. Johnny was a grill master in his spare time and loved fishing and gathering with friends and family.
Chief Jones enlisted in the Air Force in November 1969 as an Aircraft Loadmaster. He crewed C-141 and C-130 airlift missions in Vietnam for over 18 months, compiling over 300 combat missions with 575 combat flying hours. He later served in Desert Storm/Shield as well as Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He retired in 2009 as the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 136th Airlift Wing, Carswell Field, Fort Worth, TX after 39 years of dedicated service to our nation.
His pioneering included breaking a record for transporting loads during Desert Storm and facilitating the emergency airlift of a 30-ton cooling tower by C-130, a feat that had never before been accomplished. His career accomplishments were recognized in 2016 by his induction into the Texas Military Forces Hall of Honor, a distinctive recognition reserved for military members whose leadership played key roles in transforming the Texas Military Department in positive ways. Even as he accepted this esteemed honor, he remained humble, giving all the credit to those with whom he served.
Johnny is survived by his loving wife of 45 years: Martha Ann Jones; daughter: Monica Jones-McQuirk and husband Jeffrey; sisters: Jana Rains Chandler and husband Leo, and Joni Thomas and husband Jacob; and a host of family and friends that will miss Johnny dearly. He was preceded in death by his brother, Andrew Rains, and his parents.
A private family inurnment will be held at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life planned for next year.
