Frederick "Big Fred" Jones, age 72, of Bradenton, Florida, formerly of East Springfield, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on September 12, 2025, following a long and courageous battle with ALS. Born on December 13, 1952, in Steubenville, Ohio, Fred was a proud graduate of Wintersville High School, Class of 1971. A Golden Warrior through and through, he wore the blue and gold with pride, playing football as number 79 and cherishing memories of his school days and classmates throughout his life. Fred was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Fred and Helen Jones; his in-laws, Tom and Wanda Firm; and his nephew, Aaron Boyd.

He is survived by his loving wife who cared for him for 50 years, Becky (Firm) Jones; his devoted son Fred Jones and daughter-in-law Betsy R-Jones; and his cherished grandson, Freddy Jones VI. Fred also leaves behind his Aunt Shirley (Jones) Graham; sister Karen J. Vandeborne and nephews Bobby and Chad Vandeborne; brother and sister in-law Janna (Dan) Boyd and their sons Joel and Eli; and brother- and sister-in-law Tom (Dianna) Firm and niece Kayla Firm Loren.

A hardworking man with a generous spirit, Fred retired from Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel, where he worked in the 80-inch/slab yard. Beyond his work, Fred was passionate about many things, most notably amateur (ham) radio. As an Extra Class licensee and proud member of the ARRL, he was affectionately known across the airwaves by his call sign K8RRF – "The Great Ham from Amsterdam." Fred was instrumental in the revitalization of the Steubenville Rifle and Pistol Club, serving as its President for over 30 years and earning lifetime membership. An avid .22 pistol shooter and bench rest marksman, he found great joy in the sport and club activities. He also had a love for aviation and treasured plane rides with his son, as well as lending a helping hand in the shop at Don's Tractor Sales. Fred's presence was larger than life – a man known for his kindness, humor, and unmistakable vocabulary, often declaring himself "parched" or "famished" in his signature voice. His creative side showed through in the many cartoon like drawings he'd sketch on any scrap of paper he could find. Fred held deep and cherished memories of his time on Red Dog Road, where he and Becky built their first home, raised their son, and formed lifelong bonds with their neighbors. The close-knit community they were part of became an extension of their family, shaping decades of laughter, support, and unforgettable moments. Together, they watched their children grow, celebrated milestones, and weathered life's storms side by side, creating a legacy of love and connection that will live on in the hearts of all who shared it. Faith played an important role in Fred's life. He was a longtime member of The Church of the Cross in East Springfield, Ohio, where he and Becky were deeply involved until their move to Florida. Even after relocating, Fred remained connected to his church family through streamed services and also maintained ties with the Palos Hills Christian Assembly in Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Church of the Cross in East Springfield, Ohio, or to Palos Hills Christian Assembly in Palos Hills, Illinois, which he attended via Zoom in honor of Fred's memory and faith.

Visitation will be held at Everhart-Bove Funeral Home in Wintersville, Ohio, on Friday, September 19, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, September 20, officiated by Pastor Tom Snodgrass, followed by interment at Union Cemetery in Steubenville, Ohio. Family and friends are invited to join in a celebration of Fred's life with a dinner following the service at The Church of the Cross. Fred will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. His warm heart, witty humor, and unwavering devotion to family, faith, and community leave behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.

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